Ingredients

4 large eggs

2 Persian cucumbers, halved, cut into 1/2″ pieces

1 medium orange or yellow bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, cut into 1/2″ pieces

1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/4 cup sliced pitted Kalamata olives

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons capers, drained

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon za’atar, plus more for serving (optional)

Kosher salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 cup fresh mint and/or parsley leaves, torn if large

3 cups low-fat cottage cheese

Whole grain pita chips, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a small pot, cover the eggs with 2 inches of water and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, cover the pot and remove it from heat. Let the eggs sit for 8 minutes to cook through.

Step 2: Drain the eggs and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. Let them cool until cold to the touch, about 3 minutes. Peel the eggs and halve them lengthwise; set aside.

Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine the cucumbers, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, capers, lemon juice, and za’atar if using. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Stir in the fresh mint and/or parsley leaves until evenly distributed in the salad.

Step 5: Divide the cottage cheese evenly among serving bowls. Top each with the tomato and vegetable salad, then arrange the reserved egg halves on top.

Step 6: Sprinkle with additional za’atar if desired and serve with whole grain pita chips on the side for a satisfying crunch.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add some grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad.

If you can’t find za’atar, a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme works well as a substitute.

Use regular cucumbers if Persian cucumbers are unavailable, but peel them if the skin feels tough.

Try adding a splash of red wine vinegar for a tangier dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

You can substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative like vegan ricotta or tofu, and omit the eggs or replace them with marinated tofu slices for a vegan version.

How do I know when the eggs are perfectly cooked?

After letting the eggs sit in hot water for 8 minutes, cooling them in ice water will stop the cooking process. The yolks should be fully set yet still moist and creamy without any gray ring.