Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a delightful dish that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with fresh spinach and melted cheddar. This easy-to-make quiche is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. With its fluffy texture and rich flavors, it’s a versatile meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s crustless, making it lighter without sacrificing taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a hassle-free option for busy mornings.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and vitamins from spinach, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It’s great for brunches, picnics, or meal prep.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out cheeses or add other veggies based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Satisfying Meal: The combination of eggs and cheese provides a filling meal that will keep you satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with this delicious quiche, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• 9-inch pie dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking when sautéing vegetables, enhancing their flavor.
• Whisk: A sturdy whisk helps incorporate air into the eggs, resulting in a fluffier quiche.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for combining all ingredients without spills.
• 9-inch pie dish: The right dish size ensures proper cooking time and consistency throughout the quiche.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped

For the Egg Mixture

• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or half cheddar, half mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup milk

Flavor Enhancers

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
* Sauté onion and bell pepper until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
* Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
* Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Egg Base

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs, milk, and cottage cheese.
2. Stir in Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Fold in the shredded cheese along with the cooked vegetable mixture until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9-inch pie dish thoroughly. Pour in the mixture evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the preheated oven:
– Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
– Let cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, serving it with the right accompaniments can enhance your meal.

Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, adding brightness and freshness.

Sliced Tomatoes

• Serve slices of ripe tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt for a refreshing side.

Avocado Toast

• Creamy avocado spread on whole-grain toast makes for a nutritious and satisfying combination.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers complement the quiche’s flavors beautifully.

Greek Yogurt Dip

• Serve a tangy yogurt dip with fresh herbs as a delightful side to balance the richness of the quiche.

Fruit Platter

• A colorful fruit platter adds sweetness and variety, offering seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus.

How to Perfect Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

To achieve the best results with your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese will greatly enhance flavor.

• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on baking time to ensure the quiche remains moist but fully set.

• Experiment with herbs: Try different herbs like dill or parsley for a unique twist on flavor.

• Let it cool slightly: Allowing the quiche to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing helps it hold its shape better.

• Add spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat in your dishes.

Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Pairing Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary make a hearty addition.

2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic vinegar adds a gourmet touch.

3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a nutritious contrast.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide visual appeal and flavor.

5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil creates a light yet satisfying side option.

6. Savory Scones: Cheddar and chive scones bring a delightful texture that pairs well with the quiche.

7. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs adds an aromatic element to your plate.

8. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots provides refreshing contrast to the quiche’s creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not cooking the onion and bell pepper can lead to a raw taste. Always sauté them until soft for better flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make the dish bland. Don’t forget to add enough salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the flavors.
• Overmixing Ingredients: Overmixing can result in a dense texture. Gently fold ingredients together to keep the quiche light and fluffy.
• Not Cooling Vegetables: Adding hot vegetables directly to the egg mixture can cause curdling. Let them cool slightly before mixing.
• Using Old Ingredients: Freshness matters! Using old spinach or cottage cheese will affect taste and texture. Always check your ingredients before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the quiche to cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche:

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or any cheese of your choice for varied flavors.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

The current recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it does not include meat. Just ensure you use vegetable broth if substituting any liquid.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes based on your preference.

What can I serve with Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, which includes prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is not only nutritious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or cheeses based on what you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner option. We encourage you to give it a try!