Olive Cheese Salad
A refreshing cold salad combining creamy cottage cheese, tangy olives, sweet pimiento, and tender green beans, perfect for light lunches or as a side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the cottage cheese, chopped ripe olives, chopped ripe pimiento, and cooked, well seasoned green string beans.
- Package in paper cups or in oblong cartons and freeze.
- Unmold on a lettuce leaf and serve with mayonnaise or French dressing to which grated onion has been added.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for added brightness. If you don't have ripe olives, Kalamata or green olives can be great substitutes. For extra flavor, try mixing in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley. This Olive Cheese Salad makes a great side dish, especially alongside vegetarian recipes like Sandy'S Potato Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Olive Cheese Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing presentation. It pairs beautifully with mayonnaise or French dressing mixed with grated onion. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, or for a vegetarian option, pair it with Ten Minutes Healthy Cookies for a light dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to freeze the salad, place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight, and enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Olive Cheese Salad contains roughly 97 calories, with 8g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Olive Cheese Salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, it's best to add any dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
What can I substitute for pimiento?
If you can't find pimiento, roasted red peppers can be a good alternative. They provide a similar sweetness and color. You can also use finely chopped red bell peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Is this salad suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! This Olive Cheese Salad is easy to transport and can be served cold, making it ideal for potlucks. Just be sure to keep it chilled until serving time, and consider bringing extra dressing on the side for guests who may want more.
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).