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Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts
Ella Cooks

Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts

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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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

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

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
    Step 1: Whip the Cottage Cheese Dressing
    1. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
    2. Blend until smooth and creamy (about 30-45 seconds).
    3. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lemon juice for tang, or a pinch of salt if needed.
    4. 💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer a looser dressing, thin it out with 1 tbsp of water or milk.
    Step 2: Toast the Walnuts
    1. Heat a dry pan over medium heat.
    2. Add the walnuts and toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
    3. Remove from heat and set aside.
    4. 💡 Toasting Tip: Be careful—they can burn quickly! Stir frequently for even toasting.
    Step 3: Assemble the Salad
    1. In a large bowl, toss the arugula with olive oil to lightly coat the leaves.
    2. Add the fresh cherries, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta (if using).
    3. Dollop or spread the whipped cottage cheese across the salad.
      Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts
    Step 4: Finish with Balsamic Glaze & Serve
    1. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad for a sweet, tangy finish.
      Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts
    2. Serve immediately and enjoy!
      Cottage Cheese & Cherry Balsamic Salad with Walnuts

    Nutrition

    Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8g

    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.

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