Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a delightful dish that shines at any meal, from breakfast to brunch or even a light dinner. This recipe combines creamy cottage cheese, fresh spinach, and cheddar cheese into a protein-packed quiche that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With no crust required, it’s a versatile option for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This quiche can be prepared in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and vitamins from spinach, this dish is both delicious and health-conscious.
• Adaptable Recipe: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap out cheeses to suit your tastes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time, and it stores well in the fridge, ready to be enjoyed throughout the week.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this quiche fits seamlessly into any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 9-inch pie dish
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for sautéing vegetables evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly for a consistent texture in your 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 Filling

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

Seasonings

• 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) so it’s ready for baking when you finish mixing your ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion and bell pepper until soft, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spinach

Add spinach to the skillet.
Cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl:
Whisk together eggs, milk, and cottage cheese.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in Italian seasoning along with additional salt and pepper.
Then fold in shredded cheese and the cooled vegetable mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Bake the Quiche

Grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Pour in the mixture evenly across the dish.

Step 7: Cooking Time

Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center has set.
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious meal option that everyone will love!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• Fresh Fruit Salad: Combine seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for a refreshing contrast.
• Whole Grain Toast: Serve with slices of whole grain bread for added fiber and crunch.
• Greek Yogurt: A side of creamy Greek yogurt adds a protein boost and pairs well with the quiche’s flavors.

For Lunch

• Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a crisp side.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Hummus and Veggies: Pair with fresh cut vegetables and hummus for a satisfying crunch.

For Dinner

• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf complements the quiche nicely while adding texture.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover bits of the quiche.

How to Perfect Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

To achieve the best results when making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, follow these helpful tips for a delicious outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses will enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste your mixture before baking. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
• Let it Cool Slightly: Allow the quiche to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps firm up the center for easier slicing.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for varied flavors.
• Add Protein Options: Consider adding cooked chicken or turkey for an extra protein boost if desired.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

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

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the quiche.
2. Sautéed Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus adds crunch and color to your plate.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges provide a sweet contrast to the savory quiche.
4. Cucumber Dill Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with dill complements the quiche perfectly.
5. Carrot Sticks with Dip: Crunchy carrot sticks paired with hummus make a great finger food option.
6. Potato Hash: Crispy potato hash offers hearty satisfaction alongside a slice of quiche.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious result.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing the onion and bell pepper for too long can lead to mushy veggies. Cook them just until soft for the best texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Skipping salt and pepper can result in a bland quiche. Season each layer of ingredients for enhanced flavor throughout.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheeses may not melt well or provide the desired creaminess. Choose fresh, good-quality cheddar or mozzarella for optimal taste.
• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the vegetable mixture to cool can lead to scrambled eggs when combined. Let it cool slightly before mixing with eggs and cottage cheese.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking for too long or too short can affect texture. Keep an eye on it and look for a golden top and set center as indicators of doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2 months for ideal taste and texture.

Reheating Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche.

Can I customize the Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or swap out cheeses based on your preference.

How do I make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk alternatives and dairy-free cheese substitutes to create a delicious dairy-free version.

What is the best way to serve Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Serve warm or at room temperature with a side salad for a light meal. It also makes a great brunch dish!

How do I store leftovers of Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Final Thoughts

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a delightful dish that combines flavors with health benefits. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today for an easy breakfast or light dinner option!