Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe
Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Queso is a creamy, flavorful dip that’s quick to make and perfect for snacking. With a hint of spice from jalapeño and a fresh kick from lime and cilantro, it’s an easy, healthy alternative to traditional queso. Perfect for dipping or spreading on your favorite snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (well drained)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese to ensure a thick, creamy consistency. Finely chop the cilantro and jalapeño if using.
- Step 2: Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and pulse until smooth but still slightly textured, creating a creamy base.
- Step 3: Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Step 4: Fold in the chopped cilantro and jalapeño for a fresh and spicy flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Step 5: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the queso to firm up slightly.
- Step 6: Serve chilled as a dip or spread with chips, veggies, or toast.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before chopping.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of part of the cottage cheese for extra creaminess.
- Add a pinch of cumin for a smoky, earthy twist.
- If you prefer a completely smooth texture, blend longer until no texture remains.
Storage
Store the queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving and enjoy chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this queso without a blender?
Yes, you can mash the drained cottage cheese with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, then mix in the other ingredients. The texture will be a bit chunkier but still delicious.
Is this queso suitable for a low-fat diet?
Yes, cottage cheese is naturally lower in fat than many cheeses, making this queso a lighter alternative. Using low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese can reduce fat content further.
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Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cottage Cheese Queso is a creamy, flavorful, and healthy alternative to traditional queso dips. Made with well-drained cottage cheese blended to a smooth yet textured consistency, it’s seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and fresh cilantro, with an optional kick from finely chopped jalapeño. Perfect for dipping or spreading, it’s a quick and easy recipe that comes together in just 40 minutes, including chilling time.
Ingredients
Queso Base
- 1 cup cottage cheese (well drained)
Seasonings and Flavorings
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Additions
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese to ensure a thick, creamy consistency. Finely chop fresh cilantro and jalapeño (if using) to release their flavors.
- Blend the Base: Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and pulse until smooth but retaining a bit of texture. This creates a creamy queso that is easy to dip but maintains some pleasant bite.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all the flavors throughout the queso.
- Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Fold in the chopped cilantro and jalapeño for fresh and spicy elements. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the queso for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly, making it perfect for dipping or spreading.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the cottage cheese well to avoid a watery dip.
- The jalapeño is optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on your spice preference.
- For a smoother queso, blend longer but be careful not to over-process to maintain some texture.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Pair with fresh vegetables, tortilla chips, or use as a spread in wraps and sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Keywords: cottage cheese queso, healthy queso dip, creamy queso, low fat dip, easy queso recipe, jalapeño queso, cilantro dip, Mexican-inspired dip
