If you’re on the hunt for a brunch or light dinner idea that’s both wholesome and flavorful, look no further than this Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe. It combines vibrant greens, creamy cottage cheese, and a comforting blend of cheeses and eggs to create a dish that’s naturally satisfying without any fuss. Perfectly textured and bursting with fresh flavors, this crustless quiche is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a quick, healthy solution for any meal of the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen with care to maintain simplicity while delivering maximum flavor and texture. From the tender spinach to the creamy cottage cheese, these ingredients come together to create a harmonious balance of tastes and colors that make this quiche a standout dish.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Used to soften the onions and bell peppers, adding a subtle richness; melted butter works as a delightful alternative.
- 1 medium Onion: Offers a sweet, aromatic base; you can swap in shallots or leeks for a milder touch.
- 1 cup Bell Pepper: Any color adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant hues to the quiche.
- 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach: The star green that brings freshness and nutrition; frozen, well-drained spinach can be used if needed.
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese: Provides creamy texture and tangy flavor; full-fat varieties yield the richest results.
- 6 large Eggs: The essential binder that holds everything together; mixing whole eggs with egg whites is a lighter option.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Imparts a sharp, melty goodness; mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese are excellent substitutes depending on your mood.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Adds moisture and smoothness; non-dairy milk works well for those with dietary preferences.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: For a gentle garlic warmth; fresh minced garlic can be used for a punchier flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: Brings herbaceous depth; fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance this further.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): The final touch that balances and elevates all the other flavors.
How to Make Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by warming olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then toss in the fresh baby spinach a handful at a time, stirring until wilted and all excess moisture has evaporated. This step is key to ensuring your quiche stays perfectly moist but never soggy.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, milk, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This custard mixture will create the creamy base that binds the vegetables together, marrying all those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Combine and Pour
Fold the sautéed vegetable mixture into the egg and cheese custard gently but thoroughly. Once combined, pour everything into a greased 9-inch pie dish or similar baking dish, smoothing out the top so it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the quiche for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before slicing—this helps the quiche set perfectly so each slice holds its shape beautifully.
How to Serve Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or dill sprinkled on top not only add a burst of color but also elevate the layers of flavor. For a little extra texture and richness, a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado on the side can be divine.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Consider a crisp mixed greens salad sprinkled with citrus vinaigrette, roasted cherry tomatoes, or even a tangy cucumber and red onion salad. These refreshing accompaniments balance the richness of the quiche perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your quiche into mini squares and serve on a platter for a party or brunch gathering. You can also serve warm slices topped with a spoonful of homemade salsa or a drizzle of pesto for an exciting twist. The versatility of this Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe makes entertaining a breeze!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover quiche keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and freshness. It’s a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or lunch option during busy weekdays.
Freezing
You can freeze the quiche in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or in a freezer-safe container. It lasts up to 2 months frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a microwave or in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. This method keeps the texture delicate and avoids drying out your quiche.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to keep your quiche from becoming watery. This substitution works well while keeping the texture right on point.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, since it’s crustless, this quiche naturally limits carb content while providing plenty of protein and greens, making it a fantastic choice for low-carb or keto meals.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or cooked bacon or sausage for added flavor and variety. The beauty of the Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe lies in its flexibility.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can substitute a mix of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, and basil to replicate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs will elevate it even more if you have them on hand.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap out the cottage cheese and cheddar for your favorite dairy-free alternatives and use non-dairy milk. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor punch. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
Final Thoughts
With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and simple steps, this Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe becomes an instant favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re feeding family, entertaining guests, or treating yourself, it’s a comforting and nutrient-packed dish that never disappoints. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!
Print
Effortlessly Delicious Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cottage Cheese and Spinach Crustless Quiche is a wholesome and delicious dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Combining fresh baby spinach with creamy cottage cheese and a blend of cheddar cheese and eggs, this recipe offers a nutrient-rich, gluten-free option that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. With a hint of garlic and Italian seasoning, it’s a savory, protein-packed quiche without the hassle of a crust.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium Onion (can substitute with shallots or leeks)
- 1 cup Bell Pepper (any color works)
- 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach (frozen spinach can be used if well-drained)
Dairy and Eggs
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (opt for full-fat for a richer taste)
- 6 large Eggs (can use a mix of whole eggs and egg whites)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (can substitute with mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese)
- 1/2 cup Milk (non-dairy milk can be used)
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (feel free to use melted butter for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (increase with fresh herbs for extra flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, around 3-5 minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is fully thawed and well-drained before adding. Stir to combine all vegetables evenly.
- Mix Eggs and Dairy: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked vegetables into the egg mixture and stir gently to incorporate everything evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or similar sized baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set in the center and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature in 6 slices.
Notes
- This quiche is gluten-free since it has no crust, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for other types like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese for varied flavor profiles.
- If you want a richer taste, use full-fat cottage cheese and consider using melted butter instead of olive oil.
- Fresh spinach adds a brighter flavor, but frozen spinach can be used—just ensure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Adding fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder will give a more pungent, fresh garlic taste.
