Name: High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16 ounce) container low-fat cottage cheese (such as Good Culture); 1 garlic clove, sliced or roughly chopped; Zest of 1 small lemon; ¾ cup Chicago-Style mild or hot giardiniera, drained but not rinsed; Extra ¼ cup giardiniera, with oil (DO NOT drain the oil); Optional: Fresh grated parmesan cheese; Chopped fresh parsley or green onion for garnish

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Introduction

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Giardiniera Dip is a flavorful, creamy snack that’s packed with protein and zesty bites from giardiniera. It’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or adding a tangy twist to your meals.

A shallow white bowl filled with creamy dip as the base layer, its light yellow color and smooth texture visible under a scattered layer of finely chopped green herbs. On top, chunks of red, orange, and green pickled vegetables add bright splashes of color and texture, with a few drops of yellow oil glistening across the surface. A single triangular cracker is partially dipped into the dip near the center. Around the bowl, several more white crackers lie on a white marbled textured surface, alongside a beige and black striped cloth napkin. In the background, a small white bowl contains more pickled vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) container low-fat cottage cheese (I used Good Culture)
1 garlic clove, sliced or roughly chopped
1 small lemon, zested
¾ cup Chicago-Style mild (or hot!) giardiniera, drained but DO NOT RINSE
Extra ¼ cup giardiniera (DO NOT DRAIN THE OIL), for topping
Optional: Fresh grated parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh parsley or green onion

Instructions

Step 1: In the bowl of a food processor or a high-powered blender, combine the cottage cheese, garlic, and lemon zest. Blend on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Use a blender tamper or spatula to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
Step 2: Add the drained giardiniera (do not rinse) and blend again for about 30 seconds until combined and creamy.
Step 3: Transfer the dip to a shallow bowl. Top with the remaining ¼ cup of giardiniera along with its oil. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and optional parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 4: Serve the dip with crackers, fresh cut vegetables, pita chips, or use it as a spread on toasted sourdough. It also pairs wonderfully with quesadillas, roasted or grilled chicken, or steak.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, use hot Chicago-Style giardiniera instead of mild.
Try adding fresh herbs like basil or dill for an extra burst of flavor.
If you don’t have a food processor, a blender or even an immersion blender will work—just blend until smooth and creamy.
Substitute parmesan with crumbled feta for a tangier finish.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because it contains fresh ingredients, it’s best enjoyed within this time frame. Before serving again, give it a good stir and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors. Avoid freezing as texture may change.

How to Serve

A large beige bowl filled with creamy white dip that has small chunks of yellow, orange, and green vegetables mixed in, topped with finely chopped green herbs and grated cheese. A single triangular cracker is dipped into the center of the dip. Around the bowl, there are several square crackers scattered on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a smaller beige bowl containing more of the vegetable mixture. A striped cloth is placed near the larger bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of low-fat?

Yes, regular cottage cheese will work well and may make the dip creamier, but keep in mind it might also increase the fat content slightly.

Is giardiniera spicy?

Giardiniera comes in mild and hot varieties. Mild provides a tangy, pickled flavor without much heat, while hot adds a spicy kick. Choose according to your preference.