Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Name: Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat); 1 small avocado, sliced; ¼ cup pickled red onions (store-bought or homemade); 1 tsp everything bagel seasoning; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish); Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: August 3, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Hey there, fellow kitchen adventurers! If you’re searching for a light, refreshing meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your busy schedule, look no further than this Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! The creamy cottage cheese paired with ripe avocado and tangy pickled red onions creates a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s quick to whip up—perfect for those days when time slips through your fingers like sand. Your loved ones will be swooning over this colorful, vibrant dish!

Why You’ll Love This Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Let me tell you, this salad is a game-changer! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only sings with flavor but is also packed with nutrition. The creamy cottage cheese is rich in protein, while avocados add healthy fats. It’s indulgent yet guilt-free, making it perfect for a refreshing lunch or as a side at dinner. Plus, no cooking means more time for the things you love!

Ingredients for Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards a fantastic salad! Here’s what you’ll need:

Cottage Cheese: Choose full-fat or low-fat for a creamy base. This is the heart of your salad, rich in protein and texture.
Avocado: Ripe, creamy avocado slices add richness and healthy fats. Look for avocados that yield slightly when gently pressed.
Pickled Red Onions: They bring a delightful tanginess to the salad. You can buy them store-bought or make homemade pickled onions if you’re feeling adventurous!
Everything Bagel Seasoning: A sprinkle of this blend transforms your salad, adding flavors of sesame, garlic, and onion. It’s like magic in a jar!
Fresh Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess. Fresh is best for that zesty kick.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This helps to enhance the flavor and adds richness. Ensure you’re using a good quality oil for the best taste.
Chopped Fresh Chives: Optional, but they add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that sings alongside the other ingredients.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just a dash provides that little extra depth of flavor. Adjust to taste!

Remember, you can find the exact measurements at the bottom of this article, ready for printing. Happy prepping!

How to Make Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Ready to see how easy it is to create this delightful salad? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying your Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad in no time!

Step 1: Spoon in the Cottage Cheese

Begin by taking a generous scoop of cottage cheese. This will be the base of your salad. Nestle it into a beautiful serving bowl or plate. Its creamy texture is the canvas for all the flavors to come.

Step 2: Arrange the Avocado

Next, grab a ripe avocado. Carefully cut it open, remove the pit, and slice it into wedges. Lay these buttery slices over the cottage cheese. Opt for a design that’s pleasing to the eye; after all, we eat with our eyes first!

Step 3: Add Pickled Red Onions

Now it’s time for those tangy pickled red onions! Scatter them evenly on top of the avocado. Their vibrant color and flavor will grab attention and add a delightful crunch to the dish.

Step 4: Sprinkle Everything Bagel Seasoning

Here’s where the magic happens. Shake that everything bagel seasoning generously over your salad. It’s packed with flavors like sesame seeds, garlic, and onion, all complementing each other beautifully!

Step 5: Drizzle with Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

To enhance the flavors, drizzle fresh lemon juice and a splash of extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad. This adds brightness and richness that will make every bite sing!

Step 6: Add Black Pepper

Don’t forget the freshly ground black pepper! Just a sprinkle will elevate the dish’s flavors. It’s like adding the perfect finishing touches to a masterpiece.

Step 7: Garnish with Chives

If you’re feeling fancy, add some chopped fresh chives on top. They provide a lovely pop of green and a mild onion flavor that beautifully complements the other ingredients.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Salad

The best part? Dig in! Enjoy this refreshing salad as is or scoop it up with crackers, pita chips, or crisp cucumber slices. Each bite is a flavorful journey, and trust me—you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Tips for Success

Ensure your avocado is perfectly ripe for a creamy texture.
Give store-bought pickled onions a quick taste test; they vary in tanginess!
Feel free to adjust the everything bagel seasoning to your liking—go heavy or light!
Prepare this salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Pair it with a light white wine for a delightful lunch treat!

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl works wonders for combining ingredients.
Cutting Board: For safely slicing your avocado and onions.
Sharp Knife: Ensures smooth cutting of the avocado and vegetables.
Spoon: For serving and plating the cottage cheese.
Measuring Spoons: Helpful for precise seasoning and dressing.

Variations of Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Protein Boost: Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein and heartiness to the salad.
Leafy Greens: Mix in fresh spinach or arugula for added nutrients and a pop of color.
Vegan Option: Swap cottage cheese for a plant-based alternative like almond or soy yogurt.
Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick if you love heat!
Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts for crunch and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with whole grain crackers for a satisfying crunch.
Serve alongside a light soup, like tomato basil, for a complete meal.
Present in a mason jar for a charming picnic option.
Accompany with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water.
Add a colorful salad plate for an eye-catching presentation!

FAQs about Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad

Got questions about this vibrant salad? You’ve come to the right place! Here are some common queries answered to help you make the most of your culinary adventure.

Can I make this salad in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just store the cottage cheese, sliced avocado, pickled onions, and everything bagel seasoning separately. Assemble them just before serving to maintain that delightful freshness.

What can I substitute for cottage cheese?

If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can try Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. Both alternatives provide creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements all the other ingredients nicely!

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers of this salad are best eaten within 24 hours. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep in mind the avocado may brown, but a squeeze of lemon juice can help prevent that!

Can I customize the seasoning in this salad?

Absolutely! If you don’t have everything bagel seasoning on hand, mix up your own using sesame seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. It’ll add a lovely flavor twist!

Is this salad filling enough for a meal?

This salad is a great light lunch or side dish. However, if you’re looking for something more substantial, try adding protein, like grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Avocado, Pickled Red Onion & Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Salad is truly a joyful experience. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors can turn any hectic day into a delightful one. Each bite celebrates the creaminess of the cottage cheese, the richness of avocado, and the zing of pickled onions. It’s not just about nourishment; it’s also about adding a little pleasure back into your busy life. So, whether enjoying it solo or sharing it with family and friends, this salad is sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies to your table. Enjoy every bite!