Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family breakfast, a delightful brunch with friends, or a light dinner option. This easy-to-make quiche showcases the rich flavors of cottage cheese and fresh spinach, all without the need for a crust. It is nutritious, packed with protein, and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed: Cottage cheese boosts the protein content, making this dish satisfying and great for energy.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or different types of cheese for added flavor.
• No Crust Needed: This quiche is lighter than traditional recipes, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be easily stored and enjoyed throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the quiche mixture.
• Whisk: Helps combine eggs and cottage cheese smoothly, ensuring an even texture in your quiche.
• 9-inch Pie Dish: The perfect size for baking your crust less quiche evenly, allowing it to rise beautifully.

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 Quiche Mixture

• 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

How to Make Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your quiche bakes evenly.

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

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

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

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Fold in:
1. The shredded cheese.
2. The cooked vegetable mixture from the skillet until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Bake the Quiche

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

Step 7: Cooking Time

Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until:
– The top is golden brown.
– The center is set.

Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve

Enjoy warm or allow it to reach room temperature before serving at brunch or as part of a light dinner spread!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust less Quiche is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this quiche pairs wonderfully with different sides and garnishes.

Breakfast Delight

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and complements the savory quiche.
• Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread brings a creamy texture that balances the dish.

Brunch Option

• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the quiche.
• Herbed Yogurt Dip: A tangy dip with herbs enhances flavors and offers a creamy element to your plate.

Light Dinner Pairing

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add color to your meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish serves as a hearty side that complements the lightness of the quiche.

How to Perfect Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

For the best results when making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust less Quiche, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses bring out the best flavors in your quiche.
• Don’t Overbeat Eggs: Gentle whisking helps maintain the quiche’s airy texture; overbeating can make it dense.
• Let It Cool Slightly: Allowing the quiche to set after baking makes slicing easier and improves presentation.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added depth of flavor.
• Season Well: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to ensure each bite is flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

Pairing your Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche with delightful sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread slices add a rich flavor that complements the quiche nicely.
2. Cucumber Salad: A light salad with cucumbers dressed in lemon juice offers a refreshing crunch.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges provide heartiness alongside the fluffy quiche.
4. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup creates a comforting contrast to the savory quiche.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears tossed in olive oil bring vibrant color and taste to your table.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and a zesty note that pairs well with the creamy quiche.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust less Quiche, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking spinach and onions too long can lead to a soggy quiche. Sauté them just until soft and wilted.
• Not Whisking Ingredients Well: Failing to mix the eggs and cottage cheese thoroughly can result in uneven texture. Ensure everything is well combined before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your mixture can make the quiche bland. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously to enhance flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opting for cheap cheese may affect the taste. Choose good-quality cheddar or mozzarella for a richer flavor.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Removing the quiche too early can leave the center uncooked. Bake until set and golden on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust less Quiche.

Can I add other vegetables to the Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

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

You can substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a creamy texture.

What can I serve with Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche?

This quiche pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust Less Quiche?

The total time is about 55 minutes, including both preparation (10 minutes) and cooking time (45 minutes).

Final Thoughts

Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crust less Quiche is not only healthy but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or cheeses. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s perfect any time of day!