This high-protein cottage cheese giardiniera dip is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect snack for dipping veggies, crackers, or spreading on toast. With a boost of protein from cottage cheese and a zesty kick from giardiniera, this dip is both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dip comes together in minutes with simple ingredients. It’s loaded with protein, making it a great option for a healthy snack or appetizer. Plus, the giardiniera adds a delicious, slightly spicy crunch that keeps every bite interesting.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
giardiniera (mild or hot), drained and finely chopped
lemon juice
garlic powder
onion powder
smoked paprika
talian seasoning
black pepper
salt (optional, based on giardiniera saltiness)
olive oil (optional, for extra creaminess)

The full ingredient list with measurements is below.

Blending the Dip

Add the cottage cheese, giardiniera, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a drizzle of olive oil to a food processor. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

Adjusting the Flavor

Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning. Add more giardiniera for extra heat or a little more lemon juice for brightness.

Serving the Dip

Transfer the dip to a bowl and sprinkle with black pepper. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for extra richness.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture.
For a chunkier dip, pulse the giardiniera separately and stir it in after blending.
Let the dip chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap giardiniera for pickled jalapeños if you prefer a different type of heat.
Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh twist.
Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different texture but still high protein.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dip pairs well with sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, pita chips, or whole-grain crackers. It’s also great spread on a sandwich or mixed into a grain bowl for added creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Stir before serving, as some separation may occur.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes! It actually tastes even better after chilling for a bit.

Is this dip spicy? It depends on the giardiniera you use. Choose mild if you prefer less heat.

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese? Yes, but the texture will be a bit thicker and less tangy.

What’s the best way to blend this dip without a food processor? A blender or immersion blender will work, or you can mash it with a fork for a chunkier version.

Conclusion

This high-protein cottage cheese giardiniera dip is easy, nutritious, and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re snacking, entertaining, or meal-prepping, this dip is a great addition to your recipe collection!

High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip

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Author: Lily Carter
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Blending
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip is a creamy, tangy, and spicy dip packed with protein. Blending cottage cheese with bold, pickled giardiniera vegetables creates a smooth, flavorful dip perfect for crackers, veggies, or toast. It’s an easy, healthy snack or appetizer!

Instructions

Blend the Base: In a food processor or blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute).
Add Flavor: Add lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt (if needed). Blend again until combined.
Mix in Giardiniera: Fold in the finely chopped giardiniera by hand to maintain texture. If you prefer a smoother dip, pulse a few times in the blender.
Chill & Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with extra giardiniera and fresh herbs, and enjoy with crackers, pita chips, or veggies.

Notes

Make it spicy: Use hot giardiniera or add crushed red pepper flakes.
For a creamier dip: Add 1–2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tbsp
Calories: 80 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 10mg