High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip Recipe
This High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful spread that combines whipped low-fat cottage cheese with spicy Chicago-style giardiniera. Perfect as a versatile dip for crackers, vegetables, sandwiches, and grilled meats, it’s a nutritious and protein-packed snack or appetizer that comes together quickly using a blender or food processor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups, serves 6-8 as a dip
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Whipped Cottage Cheese
- 1 (16 ounce) container low-fat cottage cheese (Good Culture recommended)
- 1 garlic clove, sliced or roughly chopped
- 1 small lemon, zested
- ¾ cup Chicago-Style mild or hot giardiniera, drained but DO NOT RINSE
Topping
- Extra ¼ cup giardiniera (with oil, DO NOT DRAIN THE OIL)
- Optional: Fresh grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onion
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In the bowl of a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the cottage cheese, garlic, 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 blending and a smooth texture.
- Add giardiniera: Add ¾ cup of the drained giardiniera (do not rinse off the brine) into the whipped cottage cheese mixture. Blend again for about 30 seconds until the ingredients are well incorporated and the dip is creamy with small bits of peppers and vegetables visible.
- Transfer and garnish: Spoon the dip into a shallow serving bowl. Top with the additional ¼ cup of giardiniera along with its oil to add extra flavor and moisture. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onion and, if desired, fresh grated parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch.
- Serve: Serve the dip cold as an appetizer or snack. It pairs wonderfully with crackers such as Simple Mills or Triscuits, fresh-cut vegetables, pita chips, or toasted sourdough bread with fresh herbs. Also delicious as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for quesadillas, roasted chicken, or grilled steak.
Notes
- Do not rinse the giardiniera to preserve its flavorful brine and oils.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese to keep the dip lighter yet high in protein.
- Adjust the amount of giardiniera depending on heat tolerance—mild or hot varieties both work well.
- Optional toppings like parmesan and fresh herbs add extra flavor dimension but are not required.
- Best served chilled for optimal taste and texture.
- Can be made ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
