This whipped cottage cheese dip, loaded with herbs and garlic, is ideal for dipping vegetables or chips and spreading on crackers. It comes together in minutes and is so flavorful it will win over even cottage-cheese skeptics.
Why you’ll love it
- Bright garlic and herb flavor reminiscent of Boursin.
- High in protein and relatively low in calories.
- Ready in minutes—great for last-minute snacks.
- Improves with chilling, so it’s excellent for make-ahead prep.
- Works with either dried or fresh herbs; measurements for both are provided.
Ingredients and substitutions
The ingredient list is simple. Below are notes on common substitutions and tips so you can adapt the dip to what you have on hand.
Using dried herbs gives consistent results and is convenient, but fresh herbs can be swapped in — adjusted amounts are noted in the recipe card.
Basil: Fresh or dried basil works; the recipe card provides measurements for each.
Parsley: Fresh or dried parsley adds brightness. If you dislike parsley or don’t have any, it’s the most optional herb here.
Cottage cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese yields the best flavor and texture; the calorie difference from low-fat is small. If you prefer, ricotta can be used—taste and add a little more salt if needed, as ricotta is slightly sweeter.
Dill: Fresh or dried dill contributes a lot of the dip’s character. Leave it out only if you dislike the flavor.
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is recommended. If using pre-ground pepper, start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
Thyme: Both fresh and dried thyme work well and add depth—avoid omitting if you can.
Salt: A small amount brings the flavors together. Because cottage cheese can be salty, add sparingly and taste as you go.
Sour cream: Sour cream makes the dip silky. Substitute creme fraiche or a thick, plain Greek yogurt (preferably a full-fat, creamy variety) if you like.
Garlic: Garlic is essential—this is a garlicky dip, so don’t skip it.
Ground garlic: Using both fresh garlic and ground garlic deepens the garlic flavor. They complement each other and make the dip more robust.
How to make it
This is a whipped cottage cheese dip and is very quick to prepare. Follow these simple steps for a smooth, creamy result.
- Peel the garlic and place it in the bowl of a blender or food processor along with all remaining ingredients.
- Blend or process until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. That’s it!
Chill the dip until ready to serve. For a prettier presentation, sprinkle additional fresh or dried herbs on top and finish with a crack of black pepper.
Equipment notes
What you’ll need:
- A knife to trim and peel garlic.
- A food processor or blender to achieve a creamy, whipped texture.
If you don’t have a processor or blender, a stick blender used in a bowl will also work.
Expert tips
- The dip can be served right away, but refrigerating for an hour or more lets the flavors meld and intensify.
- To peel garlic easily: slice off the ends, then press each clove flat with the palm of your hand or the flat side of a knife to loosen the skin before removing it.
- If your blender or processor is not powerful, chop or crush the garlic ahead of time to ensure it blends smoothly.
- If the mixture is too thick for your appliance, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Cottage cheese is relatively low in calories and fat while being high in protein and several nutrients.
Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Freezing is possible but can alter texture and flavor. If frozen, blend again after thawing. Keep frozen for no more than three months.
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📖 Recipe
Herbed Cottage Cheese Dip
A smooth, garlicky cottage cheese dip that tastes like Boursin but with fewer calories and ready in minutes.
3 minutes
3 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups cottage cheese (400g)
- ½ cup sour cream (100g, or creme fraiche or natural Greek yogurt)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 Tablespoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon ground garlic
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Peel the garlic and add it and all other ingredients to the bowl of a blender or food processor.
- Blend or process until smooth. Add a tablespoon of water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or chill before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Keeps up to five days refrigerated.
To substitute fresh herbs for dried: use 1 Tbsp fresh dill, 1 Tbsp fresh basil, ½ Tbsp fresh thyme, and 2 Tbsp fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4
Serving Size
Half a cup
Amount Per Serving
Calories 170
Total Fat 10g
Saturated Fat 5g
Trans Fat 0g
Unsaturated Fat 3g
Cholesterol 35mg
Sodium 540mg
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 0g
Sugar 4g
Protein 13g