Cottage Cheese Salad With Smoked Salmon & Avocado

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is loaded with healthy fats, protein, and fresh flavors. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The creamy cottage cheese provides a protein-rich base, while the smoked salmon adds a savory depth of flavor. Avocado gives it that perfect creamy texture, and the diced cucumber brings a refreshing crunch. Plus, it’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it a go-to meal for any busy day. This simple yet nutritious dish will keep you full and energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

• 1 egg

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 2-3 slices smoked salmon

• 2 tbsp chopped chives

• 1/2 avocado

• 1/2 cup diced cucumber

• 1 tbsp chopped almonds

• 1 tsp olive oil or to taste

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the egg to your liking. Boiling for 7 minutes is recommended for a soft-boiled egg.

2. Set the egg aside to cool slightly.

3. On a plate or in a bowl, add the cottage cheese as the base.

4. Top the cottage cheese with the diced cucumber.

5. Cut the avocado into slices or cubes and add them to the salad.

6. Add the slices of smoked salmon over the avocado.

7. Peel and cut the boiled egg in half (or slice/chop as preferred) and add it to the salad.

8. Sprinkle with chopped chives and chopped almonds for added flavor and crunch.

9. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: For extra fiber, add a handful of spinach or arugula to the base.

• Swap ingredients: If you’re not a fan of smoked salmon, try substituting with grilled chicken or turkey.

• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative if you prefer to avoid dairy.

• Vegan version: For a plant-based option, skip the egg and salmon, and add extra veggies like roasted chickpeas or tofu.

• Spicy twist: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or drizzle sriracha for a spicy kick.

• Nuts: Use other types of nuts such as walnuts or pistachios in place of almonds for a different texture.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, but if you need to store it for later, you can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly over time, so it’s ideal to store the ingredients separately if you plan to eat it later. For the boiled egg, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 days before adding it to your salad. This dish is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the avocado and smoked salmon just before serving to ensure freshness.

2. What can I substitute for smoked salmon?

You can substitute smoked salmon with grilled chicken, turkey slices, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

4. How can I make this salad dairy-free?

You can replace the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan cottage cheese or a creamy nut-based spread.

5. Can I use frozen smoked salmon?

It’s best to use fresh smoked salmon for the best flavor and texture. Frozen smoked salmon may not have the same quality.

6. How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent avocado from browning, drizzle it with a bit of lemon or lime juice before adding it to your salad.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or bell peppers to increase the nutrition and flavor.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, if you don’t have cottage cheese, you can use ricotta, Greek yogurt, or any other creamy cheese that you prefer.

9. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the smoked salmon and boiled egg, and substitute with plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu.

10. How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored in an airtight container, it will stay good in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Conclusion

This Cottage Cheese Salad with Smoked Salmon and Avocado is a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any busy day. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies, it’s a well-rounded dish that will keep you feeling full and energized. Plus, it’s highly customizable to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile option for lunch or dinner.