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High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip Recipe

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3.9 from 14 reviews

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dip made by blending low-fat cottage cheese with garlic, lemon zest, and Chicago-style giardiniera. Perfect as a versatile dip for crackers, vegetables, sandwiches, or as a zesty spread on toast, this dip is a delicious way to add a protein boost to your snacks or meals.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 2 cups of dip, serves 6-8 as an appetizer

Ingredients

For whipped cottage cheese:

  • 1 (16 ounce) container low-fat cottage cheese (e.g., Good Culture)
  • 1 garlic clove, sliced or roughly chopped
  • 1 small lemon, zested
  • ¾ cup Chicago-Style mild or hot giardiniera, drained but DO NOT RINSE

For topping:

  • Extra ¼ cup giardiniera (DO NOT DRAIN THE OIL)
  • Optional: Fresh grated parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onion

Instructions

  1. Blend Cottage Cheese Base: In the bowl of a food processor or high-powered blender, add the low-fat cottage cheese, garlic clove, and lemon zest. Blend on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, using a blender tamper or spatula to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing.
  2. Add Giardiniera and Blend: Add ¾ cup of drained Chicago-Style giardiniera to the blender and continue blending for another 30 seconds until well combined and smooth.
  3. Assemble and Garnish: Transfer the blended dip to a shallow serving bowl. Top with an additional ¼ cup of giardiniera including its oil to add extra flavor. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top, and add grated parmesan cheese if desired.
  4. Serve: Serve the dip with your choice of crackers (such as Simple Mills or Triscuits), fresh cut vegetables, pita chips, or as a spread on toasted sourdough bread with fresh herbs. It pairs wonderfully with quesadillas, roasted or grilled chicken, and even steak for added zest and protein.

Notes

  • Do not rinse the giardiniera after draining; the oil adds important flavor to the dip.
  • Use a food processor or strong blender to achieve a smooth, whipped texture.
  • This dip is great served chilled or at room temperature.
  • Substitute mild or hot giardiniera depending on your desired spice level.
  • Store leftover dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dip
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat