Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious, then let me introduce you to my Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche! This recipe has become a family favorite, not just because it’s packed with protein and flavor, but also because it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a quick weeknight meal, or want to impress guests at a gathering, this quiche fits the bill perfectly.

What I love most about this dish is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. You can easily customize it to meet your taste preferences or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens. Trust me, once you try this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, it will quickly find its way into your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can get this dish in the oven and enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with cottage cheese and spinach, this quiche is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! You can serve it warm or at room temperature.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this cheesy delight. It’s a great way to introduce more veggies into their diets!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! For this Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, you’ll need simple and wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Quiche

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or half cheddar, half mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

The beauty of this quiche is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you enjoy most.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Swap the Greens: Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives if you want to change up the greens.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that once your quiche mixture is ready, it can go straight into the oven for even baking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until soft—about 3-4 minutes. This step builds flavor; caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Cook the Spinach

Next, add in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted—around 2-3 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper before removing from heat. Allowing the mixture to cool slightly makes it easier to combine later.

Step 4: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cottage cheese until smooth. Stir in Italian seasoning along with additional salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gently fold in both the shredded cheese and your sautéed vegetable mixture until everything is well combined. This is where all those wonderful flavors come together!

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Grease a 9-inch pie dish thoroughly before pouring in your mixture. Spread it evenly for consistent cooking throughout.

Step 7: Bake It Up

Pop your quiche into the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes—this waiting time helps make slicing easier!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

Slice up your delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche while it’s still warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a fresh salad!

I hope you enjoy making this delightful quiche as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Creating the perfect crustless quiche is a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure yours turns out beautifully every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality cheeses make a significant difference in flavor and texture. They provide vibrant taste and nutrients that elevate your dish.
• Don’t Skip Cooling the Veggies: Allowing the sautéed onion, bell pepper, and spinach to cool slightly before mixing them in prevents the eggs from cooking prematurely, ensuring a tender quiche.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! Adding feta or goat cheese can introduce unique flavors while keeping it creamy and delicious.
• Make it Ahead: This quiche keeps well in the refrigerator for several days. Preparing it in advance not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld wonderfully.
• Customize Your Veggies: Swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or add different vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini. Personalizing your quiche makes it even more enjoyable!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche

Serving your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Sliced Avocado: Adding slices of creamy avocado not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds healthy fats that complement the quiche perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich quiche.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with this light dish.
• Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings a sweet and tangy flavor balance, making for a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Whole Grain Toast: Serve with slices of warm whole grain toast for added fiber; it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover bits of quiche.

With these tips on how to serve your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche, you’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy this wholesome dish any time of day!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings or quick weeknight dinners. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the quiche to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Slice the quiche into individual portions before freezing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen slices, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche without eggs?

Yes! You can use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as an egg substitute. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

How do I customize my Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes. You can also switch up the cheese based on your preference, using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.

Can I use frozen spinach in my Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water from frozen spinach before adding it to your mixture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche! It’s not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to play with flavors and ingredients. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this quiche is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!