COTTAGE CHEESE AND CUCUMBER CUPS
Cottage Cheese and Cucumber Cups are a fresh and protein-rich snack that blends creamy, savoury and mildly spicy elements. With minimal ingredients and no cooking required, these bite-sized cups are ideal for quick meal prep, entertaining or midday energy boosts. Crisp cucumber rounds provide a hydrating crunch, while cottage cheese delivers a satiating protein hit. A sprinkle of paprika or chilli flakes adds a subtle kick and visual appeal. Perfect for health-conscious individuals and those following low-carb or gluten-free diets, this recipe supports metabolic balance without sacrificing flavour. Whether enjoyed alone, shared as appetisers or served during festive gatherings, these cups combine convenience and nutrition in an elegant format. They are easily customisable and can be adapted for various dietary needs, offering a versatile and nourishing option for any time of day.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, Prepared In Advance, 5 Ingredients Or Less
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Easter, Family Reunion, Shower, Summer, Valentine’s Day, Graduation
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Low/No Sugar, Wheat/Gluten-Free, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian, Low Fat, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Fritter
INGREDIENTS
- 80 grams of cottage cheese
- 4 thick cucumber rounds
- Sprinkle of paprika or chilli flakes
- Optional: Fresh herbs (chives, dill, or parsley) for garnish
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 323.3 kcal
- Fat: 4.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8 g
- Carbohydrate: 62.6 g
- Sugar: 37.7 g
- Sodium: 283.4 mg
- Protein: 17.1 g
- Cholesterol: 13.6 mg
- Calcium: 276.9 mg
- Iron: 4.2 mg
- Potassium: 1924.5 mg
- Fiber: 6.4 g
- Vitamin D: 0.1 mcg
PREPARATION
- Slice Cucumber: Cut the cucumber into four thick, even rounds. Optionally, scoop out a shallow centre using a melon baller or teaspoon.
- Prepare Filling: Spoon cottage cheese into each cucumber cup. Ensure the filling is slightly mounded for a visually appealing presentation.
- Season: Lightly sprinkle paprika or chilli flakes over the top of each filled cup.
- Garnish (Optional): Add a small sprig of herb, such as dill or parsley, for colour and freshness.
- Serve: Arrange on a plate or board and serve immediately or chill for up to one hour before serving.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
- Use Firm Cucumbers: English or Persian cucumbers work best for clean slicing and structural integrity.
- Drain Cottage Cheese: If the cottage cheese is too wet, briefly drain it through a fine-mesh sieve to reduce sogginess.
- Uniform Cuts: Slice cucumbers evenly for stable presentation and equal portions.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes for added crispness and a refreshing bite.
- Add Herbs For Flavour: Stir in finely chopped chives or dill into the cottage cheese for extra savouriness.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cottage cheese for a zesty kick.
- Vegan Alternative: Use almond or coconut-based cheese instead of cottage cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Added Crunch: Sprinkle with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced strawberries or apples for a sweet-savoury twist.
- Mediterranean Flair: Include a spoonful of finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes in the filling.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store assembled cups in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Line the base with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- Prepping In Advance: Slice cucumbers and portion cottage cheese separately, then assemble just before serving.
- Avoid Freezing: This recipe is not suitable for freezing due to the high water content in cucumbers and cottage cheese.
- Portable Storage: Transport in a chilled lunch box with compartments to keep cups upright and intact.
- Batch Serving Tip: Double or triple the recipe for gatherings, keeping toppings varied for visual appeal.