Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts
f you’re looking for a nutrient-packed, high-protein salad that feels light yet indulgent, this dish is a must-try. Whipped cottage cheese serves as a silky, protein-rich base, making it feel like a decadent creamy dressing without the heaviness of mayo or cream. The juicy cherries add natural sweetness, while the roasted walnuts provide crunch and earthy richness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze brings everything together in a burst of bold, sophisticated flavor.
This salad is perfect as a refreshing lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or even a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Whipped Cottage Cheese Dressing:
- 1 cup cottage cheese full-fat or low-fat
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- ½ tsp honey balances acidity
- ¼ tsp garlic powder optional, for extra depth
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Salad:
- 4 cups arugula or a mix of arugula & baby spinach
- ¾ cup fresh cherries pitted and halved (or dried cherries for a chewy texture!)
- ⅓ cup walnuts toasted and roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta or goat cheese optional, for extra tang
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Cottage Cheese Dressing
- In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy (about 30-45 seconds).
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lemon juice for tang, or a pinch of salt if needed.
- 💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer a looser dressing, thin it out with 1 tbsp of water or milk.
Step 2: Toast the Walnuts
- Heat a dry pan over medium heat.
- Add the walnuts and toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- 💡 Toasting Tip: Be careful—they can burn quickly! Stir frequently for even toasting.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, toss the arugula with olive oil to lightly coat the leaves.
- Add the fresh cherries, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta (if using).
- Dollop or spread the whipped cottage cheese across the salad.
Step 4: Finish with Balsamic Glaze & Serve
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad for a sweet, tangy finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts
Pro Tips & Variations ✔ Don’t Like Arugula? Use baby spinach, mixed greens, or even massaged kale for a milder flavor. ✔ No Fresh Cherries? Swap for pomegranate seeds, dried cherries, or sliced grapes. ✔ Want More Protein? Add grilled chicken, salmon, or crispy chickpeas on top. ✔ Balsamic Glaze Shortcut: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, just reduce balsamic vinegar with a little honey over low heat until syrupy. ✔ Dairy-Free Option: Skip the feta and use vegan whipped ricotta instead of cottage cheese.
Pro Tips & Variations ✔ Don’t Like Arugula? Use baby spinach, mixed greens, or even massaged kale for a milder flavor. ✔ No Fresh Cherries? Swap for pomegranate seeds, dried cherries, or sliced grapes. ✔ Want More Protein? Add grilled chicken, salmon, or crispy chickpeas on top. ✔ Balsamic Glaze Shortcut: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, just reduce balsamic vinegar with a little honey over low heat until syrupy. ✔ Dairy-Free Option: Skip the feta and use vegan whipped ricotta instead of cottage cheese.
Nutrition
Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8g
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