WHAT’S FOR DIPPING?
Whipped Cottage Cheese Caprese Dip
Array/5
COOK TIME
TOTAL TIME
10 min + marinate time
SERVINGS
8-10 servings
This Cottage Cheese Caprese Dip made with whipped cottage cheese is creamy, tangy, and packed with juicy marinated tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a touch of olive oil for the perfect taste in every bite. Enjoy with toasted bread, crunchy crackers, or crudite, and serve as an easy party appetizer!
Whipped cottage cheese is one of the trendiest foods right now, and for good reason! On its own, cottage cheese is a simple and inexpensive dairy product that is packed with protein. When it’s whipped until smooth and creamy, the texture is perfect for smoothies, sauces, pasta, ice cream, and even a batch of your favorite cookies! I love using it to make Cottage Cheese Breakfast Casserole, Creamy Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese, or in this Cottage Cheese Spinach Stuffed Chicken!
But since I love a good caprese salad, I figured it would also make a beautifully creamy base to a dip along with tomatoes, herbs, and some olive oil, and I was right! This simple dip is a perfect party appetizer or high-protein snack that is packed with flavor and can be served alongside your favorite dippers. It requires just a few simple ingredients and just 15 minutes to throw together!
Why Make This Cottage Cheese Dip?
High Protein: This dip packs a protein punch thanks to whipped cottage cheese and feta.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of fresh and wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, this recipe proves that you don’t need anything fancy to create bold, delicious flavors!
Quick and Easy: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this creamy dip in under 15 minutes.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a dip with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh veggies, or spread it on sandwiches and wraps for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cottage Cheese – Blends into a smooth, creamy base that’s packed with protein and a subtle tangy flavor. It’s best to use a high-quality brand like Hiland Dairy for the creamiest texture and freshest taste.
Feta Cheese – Adds a salty, tangy kick that perfectly balances the mild creaminess of the whipped cottage cheese.
Olive Oil – A drizzle of olive oil brings everything together, adding richness and a silky texture to both the whipped cottage cheese and the marinated tomatoes.
Cherry Tomatoes – These little bursts of sweetness bring a juicy, fresh contrast to the creamy dip. Cutting them in halves or quarters helps them soak up the flavors of the herbs and seasoning.
Fresh Basil – Brings a fragrant, slightly sweet, and peppery note that makes this dip taste like summer in every bite.
Fresh Parsley – Parsley adds a fresh, slightly citrusy touch that brightens up the entire dish.
Salt & Pepper – Both enhance all the natural flavors in the ingredients that make them taste even better!
Step By Step Instructions
Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture: Add the cottage cheese, feta cheese, and two tablespoons of olive oil to a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth, thick, and creamy. Once blended, transfer the whipped cottage cheese mixture to a serving bowl and set it aside.
Prep and Marinate the Tomatoes: Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes, then cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preference. Add them to a medium-sized bowl along with the chopped fresh basil and parsley. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and ground black pepper, then drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top. Stir everything together until the tomatoes are well coated, allowing them to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Assemble the Dip: Once the tomatoes have marinated, spoon the whipped cottage cheese mixture into a serving dish. Carefully layer the marinated tomatoes over the top.
Garnish and Serve: Pair the dip with toasted bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies. Give it a final sprinkle of fresh basil for extra flavor. Enjoy!
Dipper Ideas
Toasted baguette
Pita chips
Carrot sticks
Celery sticks
Cucumber slices
Bell pepper strips
Tortilla chips
Crackers
Breadsticks
Cherry tomatoes
Zucchini sticks
Radish slices
Pretzel rods
Endive leaves
Cauliflower florets
Broccoli florets
Apple slices
Pear slices
Naan bread
Rice crackers
Expert Tips
For the smoothest texture, blend the cottage cheese mixture for at least 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the blender. I like using my Ninja Blender.
Letting the tomatoes marinate for a full 15 minutes or longer enhances their flavor, allowing the salt and olive oil to bring out their natural sweetness and juiciness.
When chopping fresh basil and parsley, use a sharp knife to avoid bruising the leaves. This keeps the herbs looking fresh and vibrant in the dip rather than turning dark and mushy.
A drizzle of olive oil over the assembled dip adds an extra touch of richness and helps the flavors come together when serving. It also gives the dish a nice, glossy finish for presentation.
If the dip sits for a while before serving, giving it a gentle stir can help reincorporate any liquid separation and maintain its creamy texture.
Using a small spoon to layer the marinated tomatoes on top of the whipped cottage cheese helps control the distribution and prevents too much liquid from pooling in the dip.
More Ways To Enjoy
Sandwich Spread: Spread it on a sandwich or wrap for a creamy, protein-packed layer that pairs well with turkey, chicken, or roasted veggies.
Pasta Sauce: Toss it with warm pasta for an instant creamy and flavorful sauce that clings to every bite.
Stuffed Peppers: Use it as a filling for roasted bell peppers, adding a creamy contrast.
Omelet Filling: Spoon it into an omelet for a touch of fresh, herby flavor and a creamy texture.
Baked Potato Topping: Dollop it over baked potatoes for a protein-rich alternative to sour cream.
Grain Bowl Addition: Mix it into quinoa or farro bowls for an added layer of creaminess and fresh flavor.
Chicken Marinade: Use it as a marinade for chicken breasts to lock in moisture and add flavor before grilling.
Burger Topping: Spread it on burgers for a unique twist that adds both creaminess and a pop of flavor.
Flatbread Base: Spread it over warm flatbread and top with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a quick and tasty meal.
Storage Instructions
To store, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before serving again, give it a gentle stir to reincorporate any liquid that may have separated. This dip is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the cottage cheese can become grainy and watery once thawed. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.
FAQ
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped cottage cheese mixture and marinate the tomatoes separately up to a day in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
What can I use if I don’t have a food processor or blender?
A hand mixer or immersion blender works well, though it may take a little longer to reach the desired consistency. Mashing the cottage cheese by hand will result in a chunkier dip.
How long should I marinate the tomatoes?
Letting the tomatoes marinate for at least 15 minutes helps them absorb the flavors, but they can sit for up to an hour for an even richer taste. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, crumbled goat cheese or grated Parmesan can be used for a slightly different flavor while still keeping the dip creamy and tangy.
What should I do if my dip is too thick?
If the dip feels too thick after blending, add a small splash of olive oil or a little milk to loosen it up. Blend again until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Fresh basil and parsley provide the best flavor, but if needed, dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
More Easy Dip Recipes
Print
Whipped Cottage Cheese Caprese Dip
Whipped Cottage Cheese Caprese Dip is savory, salty, creamy, and rustic all at the same time. The creaminess of the best cottage cheese from Hiland Dairy mixed with the bursting cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a little olive oil and salt too.
Ingredients
1 16 oz container Hiland Dairy Cottage Cheese
¼ cup crumbled Feta Cheese
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half or fourths
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
3 Tablespoons olive oil
Toasted bread, pita chips, or veggies for dipping
Instructions
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In a food processor or blender, add the Hiland Dairy cottage cheese, feta cheese and olive oil. Blend until smooth and set aside.
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In a medium size bowl, add the cut cherry tomatoes, chopped basil and parsley, salt and pepper, and olive oil. Stir together to coat the tomatoes. Set aside for about 15 minutes to let the flavors come together.
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Spoon the whipped cottage cheese mixture into a bowl to serve. Spoon the marinated tomatoes over the cottage cheese. Then serve with toasted bread/baguettes, pita chips, or veggies.
Notes
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