Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a delightful dish that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this quiche is both nutritious and satisfying. Its crustless design makes it easier to prepare and serves as a fantastic option for anyone looking for a gluten-free meal. Enjoy this protein-packed recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and nutrients from spinach, this quiche is both healthy and filling.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or at room temperature, making it suitable for any occasion from brunch to dinner.
• Flavorful: The blend of cheddar cheese and Italian seasoning gives this quiche a delicious flavor that everyone will love.
• Minimal Cleanup: With no crust to worry about, you’ll spend less time cleaning up after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables, ensuring they are cooked perfectly before adding them to the quiche mix.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps blend eggs, milk, and cottage cheese smoothly for an even texture.

Ingredients

For the Vegetables

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

For the Quiche Base

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

For Seasoning

• 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). This ensures that your quiche cooks evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Spinach

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

Step 4: Mix Eggs and Cottage Cheese

In a large mixing bowl,
* Whisk together the eggs, milk, and cottage cheese until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Fold in the shredded cheese along with the cooled vegetable mixture into the egg mixture until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Pour into Pie Dish

Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or oil.
* Pour in the quiche mixture, spreading it out evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes.
* The top should turn golden brown and the center should be set.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Serve your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche warm or at room temperature for best flavor. Enjoy!

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, lunch, or dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

For Breakfast

• Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of seasonal fruit like berries or melon for a refreshing contrast.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost to your morning plate.

At Brunch

• Mixed Green Salad: Pair with a light salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Savory Muffins: Complement the quiche with homemade savory muffins, such as cheese or herb flavors.

For Lunch

• Whole Grain Toast: A slice of whole grain toast can offer some crunch and fiber alongside your quiche.
• Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting and hearty lunch option.

For Dinner

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious dinner plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad adds texture and is an excellent source of protein to round out your meal.

How to Perfect Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Creating the perfect Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cottage cheese enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the ingredients to keep the quiche light and fluffy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking; adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Let It Cool Slightly: Allow the quiche to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
• Experiment With Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations like feta or gouda for varied flavors.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

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

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly makes for a bright side.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside the quiche.
3. Sautéed Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus adds color and nutrition; finish with lemon juice for zest.
4. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory quiche.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the creamy texture of the quiche.
6. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup creates a comforting combination that’s perfect for any time of day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the vegetables – Sautéing the onion and bell pepper for too long can cause them to become mushy. Aim for just 3–4 minutes until they are soft but still hold their shape.
• Skipping the cooling step – If you don’t let the cooked vegetables cool slightly before mixing them with the eggs, it can lead to curdled eggs. Always allow them to cool for a few minutes.
• Not greasing the dish adequately – Failing to grease your pie dish properly can result in sticking. Use a generous amount of olive oil or cooking spray for easy removal.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste your mixture before baking! Adding salt, pepper, or spices at this stage can enhance flavor significantly.
• Baking at an incorrect temperature – Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. An uncalibrated oven could lead to uneven results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I customize the ingredients in Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or swap out cheeses according to your preference.

How do I ensure my Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix your egg mixture. A gentle fold will help keep it fluffy.

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

This quiche pairs well with a fresh salad or fruit on the side for a complete meal.

How long does it take to bake Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Bake it for approximately 40–45 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.

Final Thoughts

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses. This light yet protein-packed dish makes for a perfect breakfast or brunch item that everyone will enjoy. Give it a try!