High Protein Cucumber Salad Recipe

So, picture this: it’s the kinda summer day in South Philly where the sidewalk's hot enough to fry an egg, the box fan’s doing overtime in the window, and nobody—nobody—wants to turn on the stove. That’s when a bowl of this high protein cucumber salad comes in like a sweet breeze off the Jersey Shore. And if you’re in the mood for more high-protein eats, check out my Protein Bagel Recipe or, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, these cozy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls really hit the spot.

Now, I know what you’re thinkin’—“Frankie, cottage cheese? In a salad?” And look, I had the same look on my face the first time my buddy Jimmy’s mom served it up at a cookout. But one bite in? I was sold. This stuff’s creamy, tangy, got that cool crunch from fresh cukes, and here’s the kicker—it actually fills you up! Yeah, we’re talkin’ real-deal high protein cucumber salad for weight loss that doesn’t taste like a compromise.

We used to call this the “poolside lunch” back when my cousins and I were runnin’ wild through my Uncle Tony’s backyard, jumpin’ in and outta that above-ground pool like maniacs. My ma would scoop out big spoonfuls of this salad into paper bowls while yellin’ at us to dry off before sittin’ on the furniture.

These days, I whip this up when I want something light, cold, and loaded with good-for-you stuff. You got your cucumbers—hydrating and crisp like they just came outta the fridge. Then there’s red onion, which adds a nice little punch. But the real hero? That cottage cheese dressing—blended smooth with vinegar, chives, and dill. It’s kind of like a Greek yogurt tzatziki, only silkier, and it’s the secret that makes this a vegan high protein cucumber salad if you swap in a plant-based cottage cheese. Yep, they got that now.

And let’s not forget the cucumber high protein angle. Cucumbers may not seem like protein powerhouses, but paired with the right ingredients? You got yourself a muscle-friendly, hot-weather miracle.

Sometimes I throw in some chickpeas or cooked quinoa to bulk it up even more, especially if I’m serving it as a lunch. You could toss in grilled tofu or seitan if you're leaning toward a vegan high protein cucumber salad version—just don't skimp on that fresh dill, capisce?

And if you’re wondering, yes—it keeps well in the fridge for a couple days. But if you’re like me, you’ll probably be sneakin’ forkfuls straight from the bowl.

FAQs

What can I add to a salad for more protein?

Oh you got options, kid. Hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, black beans, grilled chicken, tofu, seitan, even hemp seeds or a scoop of cottage cheese like we do here. Just toss in what you like and what fills ya up.

Is cucumber good for a high protein diet?

Cucumbers on their own? Not exactly pumpin’ iron. But they’re a low-cal, high-water veggie that pairs great with high-protein ingredients. So they’re perfect in a salad like this one where the dressing does the heavy lifting.

What should not be mixed with cucumber salad?

I usually steer clear of stuff that’s gonna water it down too much—like tomatoes or extra juicy fruits. And unless you really like bold flavors, skip the raw garlic. It tends to take over.

Are cucumber salads healthy for you?

Absolutely. They’re hydrating, low in calories, full of fiber, and when you dress ‘em up with good stuff like herbs, vinegar, and cottage cheese? You got yourself a clean, protein-packed dish.

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