Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. You'll need cottage cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, dill, black pepper, and optional jalapeño slices. This ensures everything is ready for blending.
In a high-speed blender, combine the cottage cheese and lemon juice. This pairing creates a smooth and creamy base. Secure the lid tightly to avoid any mess.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, dill, and black pepper to the blender. These spices enhance the flavor profile, making your dip irresistible.
Next, pour in 2 tablespoons of water to help with the blending. Water helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture. Blend on high until everything is combined and the consistency is whipped.
If you want a thinner dip, add 2 more tablespoons of water and blend again until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember, the total amount of water can vary based on how watery your cottage cheese is.
Now, taste your dip to see if any adjustments are needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a dash more lemon juice for brightness. This step allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
If you're going for the Jalapeño Ranch variation, this is the moment to add the jarred jalapeño slices along with their juices. Blend once more until the jalapeños are mixed in well.
Once blended to your satisfaction, transfer the dip to an airtight container. This container will keep your dip fresh and allow the flavors to develop further after resting in the fridge.
Chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least a few hours, but ideally overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer taste.
Finally, serve your Cottage Cheese Dip with an array of fresh veggies, crunchy chips, or as a flavorful sandwich spread. Enjoy with family and friends!