Cucumber Tarragon Dip
A refreshing and creamy cucumber dip infused with tarragon and accented by lemon, perfect for summer gatherings or as a cooling side. Its smooth texture and herbaceous flavor make it an ideal accompaniment for vegetables, chips, or light appetizers, appealing to both herb lovers and those seeking a cool, savory treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whirl cucumber in an electric blender until mushy.
- Gradually add cottage cheese while blending.
- Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic salt, onion juice, and dried tarragon.
- Mix until well combined.
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of dry curd cottage cheese. Fresh tarragon can also enhance the flavor if available. If you're short on time, pre-chopped cucumber or store-bought onion juice can save you prep time. This dip is versatile and can be used as a spread for sandwiches or paired with crisp veggies for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cucumber Tarragon Dip alongside an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for a healthy snack. It also pairs beautifully with Foil Roasted Potatoes for a delightful appetizer. For a light meal, consider serving it with whole grain crackers or as a spread on wraps filled with your favorite vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to three days. To refresh the dip before serving, give it a good stir; adding a splash of lemon juice can help revive its flavor. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Tarragon Dip contains roughly 237 calories, with 10g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), iron (51% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried tarragon?
Absolutely! Fresh tarragon will provide a more vibrant flavor than dried. Use about three times the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. Just chop them finely and mix them in at the same stage as the dried herbs.
Is this dip suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this Cucumber Tarragon Dip is a great option for low-carb diets. With its combination of cottage cheese and cucumbers, it provides protein and fiber without the added carbs found in many dips. Always check the ingredients in your mayonnaise to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. For a different flavor profile, finely chopped jalapeños can also work well. Adjust the amount to your spice preference, ensuring it complements the coolness of the cucumber.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).