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!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup (120g) giardiniera (mild or hot), drained and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional, based on giardiniera saltiness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Garnish:
- Extra chopped giardiniera
- Fresh parsley or chives
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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