Afternoon tea time, meaning me time. Normally, scones and hot pot of tea would be on the table for me to enjoy. But not on a sizzling summer day like this. I know, I know … it is summer so expect hot days, right? Well, let’s just say 34C degrees is a bit too much to handle. Sun rays are way too harsh on the skin. I prefer staying indoors, especially after hours of standing on my feet at work. My happy place during afternoons like this is in the lounge corner, with my drink and some nibbles. No scones today but something light. No hot tea but something refreshing and cold. Herbed cottage cheese with avocado and tomato salsa for nibbles and a glass of pineapple syrup cooler. I love cottage cheese with some fresh herbs like chives. For this recipe, I mixed some chopped chives, parsley and basil leaves. You can use ricotta cheese if you prefer but I like the cottage cheese with onion and chives that is readily available in the supermarket. I just use that and add more punch by incorporating shredded basil, which has a strong, pungent and sweet smell. Plus, basil goes really well with fresh tomatoes and cheese. Fresh flat leaf parsley is a great herb to use as well. I like its mild peppery flavour, which actually brightens any dish, in my opinion. Chives is a favourite. I always have chives in my fridge just in case I am craving for an omelette. But that’s another story. Anyway, spread the herbed cottage cheese on your choice of crackers then top them with the avocado and tomatoes. By the way, serve these as entrees and these will sure be a crowd pleaser when you’re having a party.
Ingredients:
- 100g cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon shredded fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon snipped chives
- 2 firm tomatoes
- 1 avocado, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Method:
- Combine cottage cheese and fresh herbs in a bowl.
- Mix avocado and tomatoes in another bowl. Add lime juice.
- Spread cheese on crackers. Top with avocado and tomato salsa.