Introduction
Cottage cheese and spinach come together in this crustless quiche, creating a light yet satisfying meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, offering a burst of flavor and vibrant green color that is sure to please any palate.
What makes this quiche stand out is its flexibility; it can be customized with various herbs or additional vegetables. The absence of a crust simplifies preparation and provides a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
Cottage cheese forms the creamy base of the quiche, adding moisture and protein while providing a subtle tang that harmonizes well with the spinach. - 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Fresh spinach not only contributes vibrant color but also packs essential vitamins and minerals, making this quiche a nutrient-dense choice. - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese introduces a rich, savory flavor and enhances the creaminess of the quiche, creating a delightful contrast with the spinach. - 1/4 cup milk
Milk helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring a tender texture without the heaviness of a traditional crust. - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses the quiche with a lovely depth of flavor, complementing the other ingredients and enhancing the overall taste. - 4 large eggs
Eggs serve as the primary binding agent in this recipe, providing structure and a fluffy texture while encouraging the quiche to rise. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning elevates the dish, balancing the flavors of the ingredients and allowing the natural tastes to shine.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven is crucial as it ensures that the quiche cooks evenly. A properly preheated oven helps the quiche to rise beautifully and sets the texture from the start, avoiding a soggy bottom.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, chopped spinach, eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mixing these ingredients together in a large bowl allows for a uniform distribution of flavors. The cottage cheese and eggs create the quiche’s base while the spinach adds earthiness, and seasoning brings everything to life.
Step 3: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly incorporated.
Incorporating the cheddar at this stage ensures that the cheese melts evenly during baking, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout the quiche. It also adds a rich depth of flavor that complements the spinach.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into a greased pie dish or quiche pan.
Greasing the dish helps to prevent sticking, making it easier to slice and serve the quiche once it's baked. Choose a dish that can withstand high temperatures for best results.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Baking allows the eggs to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. The jiggly center indicates that the quiche is not overcooked and will continue to firm up as it cools.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Allowing the quiche to cool slightly makes it easier to slice without ruining the texture. This resting period also enhances the flavors, making it even more enjoyable.
Balancing Creaminess and Nutrition
This quiche brilliantly balances indulgence with health, thanks to the use of cottage cheese and spinach. The cottage cheese not only adds a creamy texture but also elevates the protein content, while spinach provides essential nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C. Enjoying this dish allows home cooks to indulge without guilt, making it a perfect fit for various dietary goals.
A Versatile Dish for Any Meal
One of the most appealing aspects of this crustless quiche is its versatility. You can serve it warm for breakfast, at room temperature for brunch, or chilled for a light dinner. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread, allowing for a complete meal with minimal effort.
Customization Galore
This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation for customizing with your favorite ingredients. Want to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of feta? Go for it! The base of cottage cheese and eggs allows for endless variations, making it easy to keep this dish fresh and exciting, meal after meal.
FAQs
What can I do if my quiche is too watery?
If your quiche is too watery, ensure you thaw and squeeze out excess liquid from spinach before mixing. Also, consider adding a bit more cheese to absorb moisture.
How can I enhance the flavor if it tastes bland?
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or extra spices such as paprika or onion powder.
Is it possible to add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or zucchini; just ensure they are cooked and drained of any excess moisture before mixing.
What should I do if my quiche is overcooked?
If your quiche turns out overcooked, serve it with a sauce or dressing to add moisture and flavor. A dollop of sour cream can also help.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake it in a larger dish. Adjust the baking time as necessary to ensure it cooks evenly.
What happens if I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s properly thawed and drained of water to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the texture.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Spinach Crustless Quiche offers a wholesome, delicious option for any meal, bursting with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for using up leftover spinach or to impress a brunch crowd, it reliably delivers satisfaction with each bite.
Home cooks will appreciate the simplicity of preparation combined with the flexibility to personalize, making this recipe a staple in any kitchen. Enjoy the ease of making this delightful dish any time you crave a healthy indulgence!
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.