Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche – Gluten-Free & Creamy
Introduction
Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche is a delicious, creamy dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe is gluten-free and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal. It’s easy to prepare and offers a delightful combination of flavors from the cottage cheese, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Why Make This Recipe
This crustless quiche is not only tasty, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some greens into your diet. With protein-rich cottage cheese and nutrient-dense spinach, it’s perfect for breakfast or as a light lunch. Additionally, being gluten-free makes it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion!
How to Make Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups (360 g) full-fat cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup (60 ml) milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 oz (170 g) fresh spinach (about 6 cups loosely packed)
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley
- A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan
Directions:
- Preheat & prep pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or quiche pan with nonstick spray or a thin brush of oil.
- Sauté the aromatics & greens: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 30 seconds. Add the spinach in batches, stirring until it’s wilted. Transfer this mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly.
- Blend the custard base: In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, eggs, milk, Parmesan, mustard, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until very smooth, about 30 seconds.
- Combine & season: Pour the slightly cooled spinach mixture into the blended custard. Gently stir to distribute the greens evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Bake the quiche: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is just set and the edges are lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
- Rest & garnish: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes (this helps it firm up). Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan before slicing.
- Serve: Cut into 6 wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche
You can serve this quiche warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a simple green salad or can be enjoyed on its own. For a heartier meal, consider adding a slice of whole-grain bread.
How to Store Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche
To store leftovers, allow the quiche to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the quiche. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche
- Make sure to let the quiche rest after baking before slicing; this helps it to set.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses according to your taste preferences.
Variation
Feel free to replace spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard. You can also add diced cooked ham or bacon for a heartier quiche if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s great for meal prepping!
2. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze individual slices for later use. Just wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
3. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but the quiche may be less creamy.
Enjoy making and sharing your Cottage Cheese & Spinach Crustless Quiche!
