Innovative Cottage Cheese and Herb-Infused Quiche
Introduction
This exclusive recipe combines the creamy richness of cottage cheese with a medley of fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables, resulting in a quiche that’s both nutritious and delicious. Unlike traditional versions heavy on cream and cheese, this quiche is light, protein-packed, and bursting with natural flavors. It’s perfect for any meal—be it breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Moreover, the flexibility to customize based on seasonal ingredients or personal dietary needs makes it a standout dish.
Servings: 4–6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
the base (optional for crustless quiche):
- 1 cup oat flour (gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons cold water (adjust as needed)
the filling:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until creamy)
- 3 large eggs
- Half a cup of almond milk, unsweetened, or your preferred type of milk
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and drained of excess moisture
- ½ cup roasted butternut squash cubes
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
garnish:
- A few cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust (Optional)
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine oat flour, ground flaxseed, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Next, press the dough evenly into a greased 9-inch pie dish. Prick the base with a fork, then bake for 8–10 minutes. Let the crust cool completely to ensure it’s ready to hold the filling.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the interim, warm some olive oil in a skillet set to medium heat. Add the red onion slices and cook until they caramelize, stirring occasionally. Then, toss in the grated zucchini and sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until softened. Take the skillet off the heat and transfer the vegetables to a separate dish.
Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture
In the meantime, blend cottage cheese, eggs, almond milk, dill, parsley, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend or whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy base ensures the quiche is both light and flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
Begin by layering the sautéed vegetables and roasted butternut squash evenly over the crust (or directly into a greased pie dish for a crustless version). Afterward, pour the blended cottage cheese mixture over the vegetables. To finish, garnish the top with halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top turns lightly golden. Be sure to check the quiche toward the end of baking to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After baking, let the quiche rest for a few minutes to make slicing easier. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top, if desired, to add a fragrant finishing touch. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this quiche offers a wholesome alternative to traditional recipes.
- Unique Ingredients: Fresh herbs and roasted squash create a flavor profile that’s light yet satisfying.
- Customizable Options: Whether you prefer it crustless or loaded with seasonal veggies, this dish adapts effortlessly to your needs.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~180 (crustless) / ~230 (with crust)
- Protein: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~3g
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Herb-Infused Cottage Cheese Quiche is not only innovative but also simple to prepare. Whether you’re planning a weekday meal or an elegant brunch, this dish brings health and flavor to the table. Try it today for a guilt-free indulgence that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Let me know if you’d like further adjustments or additional features for this recipe! 😊