Name: High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat); 1/2 cup giardiniera (mild or hot), finely chopped; 1 clove garlic or 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

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This high protein cottage cheese giardiniera dip is a bold, tangy, and creamy snack that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. I love how the briny heat of giardiniera blends perfectly with the smooth richness of whipped cottage cheese. It’s a great option when I want a satisfying dip that’s not only delicious but also good for me.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dip because it’s an easy way to enjoy something spicy and creamy without feeling heavy. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and full of texture thanks to the chopped giardiniera. Whether I’m scooping it up with veggies, crackers, or spreading it onto sandwiches or wraps, it adds instant flavor. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to make and stores well for busy weeks. High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
Giardiniera (mild or hot, finely chopped)
Garlic powder or fresh garlic
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Directions

I place the cottage cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of olive oil into a food processor or blender.
I blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
I stir in the finely chopped giardiniera by hand to keep the texture.
I season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer to a bowl.
I top the dip with a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs if I want to dress it up.
I chill it for at least 15 minutes before serving so the flavors meld together.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1 ½ to 2 cups of dip, serving 4–6 people as a snack or appetizer.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 15 minutes (optional, for best flavor)
Total time: Around 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes blend a bit of giardiniera into the dip for more heat throughout.
For a thicker dip, I reduce the amount of lemon juice or add a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
I’ve made it with spicy giardiniera for a real kick, or mild for a more family-friendly version.
To make it extra creamy, I add a small scoop of cream cheese or feta.
A pinch of smoked paprika on top adds depth and color.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This dip doesn’t need reheating—just a quick stir before serving. If the giardiniera releases liquid, I give it a quick mix to bring it back together. High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip

FAQs

What is giardiniera?

Giardiniera is a mix of pickled vegetables—usually cauliflower, carrots, celery, and peppers—preserved in oil or vinegar. I love using it for its tangy, spicy flavor.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to develop in the fridge.

Do I need to blend the giardiniera too?

I prefer to stir it in chopped so the dip has texture, but if I want a smoother finish, I blend part or all of it.

Is this dip spicy?

It depends on the type of giardiniera I use. The hot version has real heat, while the mild version adds more of a tangy crunch without the spice.

Can I use this as a sandwich spread?

Absolutely. I’ve spread it on wraps, toast, and even burgers. It adds a creamy, zesty layer that’s packed with flavor.

Conclusion

This high protein cottage cheese giardiniera dip is a bold, satisfying snack that I always come back to. It’s creamy, zesty, and packs a punch of flavor while being full of nutrients. Whether I’m dipping, spreading, or scooping, it’s a versatile recipe that turns simple ingredients into something exciting.