Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches
Highlighted under: Healthy Light Meals
I recently developed a craving for a savory dish that felt light yet satisfying, leading me to create these delicious Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches. Packed with fresh veggies and creamy cottage cheese, they make for a perfect brunch or light dinner. With the delightful taste of herbs and a golden crust, I love how easy they are to assemble and bake. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and they also make fantastic leftovers for a quick lunch!
When I was experimenting with dinner options, I realized I had an abundance of zucchini from my garden. This inspired me to concoct these Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches. I had never made quiche this way before, but the combination of zucchini and cottage cheese creates a rich, satisfying filling that remains light. The herbs and spices add a delightful twist that elevates the dish.
Another aspect that made these quiches shine was the cooking method. By pre-baking the crust for a few minutes, I ensured it stayed crisp, even with the moist filling. I also played around with the cheese type, eventually settling on a mild cottage cheese that agreed perfectly with the zucchini. The result was a flavorful dish that my family absolutely adored!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A savory blend of zucchini and creamy cottage cheese
- Light and satisfying, perfect for any meal of the day
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices
Understanding Your Ingredients
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the zucchini, which not only adds moisture and flavor but also provides a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. When grating the zucchinis, you’ll want to squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is crucial; too much moisture in the filling can lead to a soggy quiche. After grating, aim for about 1 ½ cups of packed zucchini to ensure the right texture and flavor balance.
Cottage cheese contributes creaminess and protein, making this dish satisfying without being heavy. If you're looking for a creamier texture, choose a medium or large-curd cottage cheese. For a low-fat option, substitute with a low-fat version. Keep in mind that the choice of cheese will influence the flavor profile. While cheddar brings a sharp tang, mozzarella lends a milder, creamier note, so feel free to experiment to find your preferred taste.
Baking Tips for Perfect Quiche
When preparing the pie crust, it’s essential to pre-bake it to prevent a soggy bottom. Look for the crust to appear lightly golden and firm to the touch after about 10 minutes. If you notice the edges beginning to puff up, simply press them down gently with a fork. Watch closely as ovens vary in temperature, and you want just a hint of color to aid in achieving a perfectly crisp base.
After filling and baking, allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling set further, making it easier to cut clean slices. If you cut it too early, the filling may collapse and create a messy presentation. For a beautiful serving option, garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika to enhance its appeal.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to begin!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your quiches:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cottage cheese, eggs, shredded cheese, onions, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Pre-bake the Crust
Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and pre-bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Fill the Crust
Carefully pour the zucchini mixture into the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the Quiche
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden.
Let It Cool
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheese types based on your preferences. Spinach and feta, or even bell peppers would make great additions to this recipe.
Make-Ahead and Storage
These Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches are excellent for meal prepping. You can assemble them a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just cover the assembled quiche with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in a microwave for about 30-45 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the quiche. It can be frozen either before baking or after. To freeze pre-baked quiche, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize your quiche by adding your favorite vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes can introduce new flavors. Just ensure the total amount of wet ingredients remains balanced to maintain the right texture. Sauté any additional vegetables before adding them to the filling to reduce moisture and enhance their flavors. You can also swap out the herbs; for example, dill or thyme can add a wonderful aroma and depth.
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free pie crust or making a crustless quiche. To make a crustless version, simply grease the pie dish and pour the filling directly into it. This method not only cuts down on carbs but also allows for quicker preparation and baking time—just check for doneness slightly earlier, around 20-25 minutes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the quiche a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.
→ Is there a gluten-free option for the pie crust?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free pie crust or even a vegetable-only crust made from blended nuts.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze these quiches?
Yes, you can freeze the quiches after baking. Wrap slices individually and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches
I recently developed a craving for a savory dish that felt light yet satisfying, leading me to create these delicious Zucchini Cottage Cheese Quiches. Packed with fresh veggies and creamy cottage cheese, they make for a perfect brunch or light dinner. With the delightful taste of herbs and a golden crust, I love how easy they are to assemble and bake. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and they also make fantastic leftovers for a quick lunch!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pre-made pie crust
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cottage cheese, eggs, shredded cheese, onions, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and pre-bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Carefully pour the zucchini mixture into the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheese types based on your preferences. Spinach and feta, or even bell peppers would make great additions to this recipe.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g