Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche is a simple and tasty dish that you’ll love. Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients to fit any diet. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal clean-up! Let me guide you through making this delicious and healthy quiche, step by step. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cottage cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
I love using cottage cheese in my quiche. It gives a creamy texture and adds protein. The eggs help bind it all together. Fresh spinach makes it colorful and healthy. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst of flavor, while bell pepper and onion bring crunch and taste.
Optional Add-ins
– Other vegetables (e.g., zucchini, mushrooms)
– Herbs (e.g., thyme, parsley)
– Protein options (e.g., cooked bacon, ham, or tofu)
Feel free to mix in other veggies you like. Zucchini and mushrooms work great! Fresh herbs can add a nice touch. If you want more protein, consider adding bacon or tofu. You can really make this dish your own.
Nutritional Information
This quiche is packed with nutrients. Each serving has about 200 calories. You get a good amount of protein from the cottage cheese and eggs. This dish also has fiber from the veggies. It makes for a well-rounded meal that is both tasty and filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan with olive oil. This step helps to stop the quiche from sticking.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a big bowl, combine 2 cups of cottage cheese and 4 large eggs. Use a whisk to blend them well. Then, add 1 cup of chopped spinach, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper, and 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything until it is well combined. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Baking the Quiche
Pour the mixture into your greased dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Check if it is done by looking for a set center and slightly golden edges.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, avoid over-stirring your mixture. Gently mix until everything is just combined. This helps keep it fluffy. Once it comes out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This small step helps the quiche hold its shape better.
Flavor Enhancements
You can play with flavors in your quiche. Try adding different herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh taste. Swap mozzarella for feta or cheddar cheese for a new twist. This can really change the flavor profile. You can also adjust seasonings. If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This quiche pairs well with many items. A fresh salad adds nice crunch and color. You can also serve it with crispy toast for breakfast. If you want something heartier, add some roasted veggies or a side of fruit. These options make the meal more complete and satisfying.
Variations
Dietary Modifications
You can easily adjust this recipe for different diets. For a gluten-free option, skip any crust. The main ingredients, like cottage cheese and eggs, are naturally gluten-free. If you want to make it vegetarian, just focus on the veggies and cheeses. For a low-carb version, you can add more green veggies and skip starchy ones. Think of zucchini or cauliflower instead of potatoes or bread.
Flavor Twists
Let’s talk about flavor! You can create fun twists with this quiche. A Mediterranean style could include olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. For a Mexican flavor, try adding black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Each region brings its own taste, making the dish unique. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite flavor combo!
Seasonal Ingredients
Using seasonal veggies can really boost taste. In spring, add fresh asparagus or peas. Summer is great for tomatoes and bell peppers. For fall, think about using butternut squash or kale. Winter brings sweet potatoes and hearty greens. Seasonal produce makes your crustless quiche fresh and exciting. Plus, it supports local farmers and the environment.
Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your crustless cottage cheese quiche fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It can last for about 3 to 4 days this way. If you want to save it longer, freeze the quiche. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Recommendations
When you’re ready to enjoy your quiche again, avoid drying it out. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quiche on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat it in short bursts, checking often, so it doesn’t get rubbery.
Container Suggestions
For storing your quiche, use containers that seal well. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work great. They help keep moisture in and air out. If you’re freezing, make sure the container is labeled as freezer-safe. This way, you can enjoy your crustless cottage cheese quiche later without any worries.
FAQs
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this quiche ahead of time. Just prepare it as directed and let it cool. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the quiche warm and fresh.
Is crustless quiche healthier?
Yes, crustless quiche is often healthier. It has fewer calories and less fat than traditional quiche. A crust adds extra carbs and calories. By skipping it, you get more protein and nutrients from the cottage cheese and veggies. This makes crustless quiche a great choice for a lighter meal.
How do I know when my quiche is done?
Check your quiche at the 35-minute mark. It’s done when the edges are golden and the center is set. You can also insert a knife in the middle. If it comes out clean, your quiche is ready. If it wobbles too much, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
This quiche is easy to make with simple, tasty ingredients. You learned about the main ingredients, optional add-ins, and nutritional details. We covered step-by-step instructions from prepping the oven to baking. Tips helped improve texture and flavor. We also explored variations for different diets and flavors. Lastly, we discussed storage and reheating methods to keep it fresh.
Enjoy your quiche and get creative with each bite!
