High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a medley of fresh vegetables. Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner that’s easy to prepare and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Cooking spray or additional olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and red onion.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the egg mixture over the vegetable mix and stir gently until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the vegetables and egg mixture.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is set.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

• Swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Feel free to add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to increase the protein content even more.
• Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried oregano for a brighter taste.
• For a vegan version, replace cottage cheese and eggs with firm tofu and a flaxseed egg substitute.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option but may soften the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this bake in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the bake and keep it covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy days.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Frozen vegetables can be used but may release extra moisture, so drain them well before mixing to avoid a watery bake.

High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese Recipe

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4.4 from 635 reviews

This High-Protein Veggie Bake with Cottage Cheese is a nutritious and delicious oven-baked dish packed with fresh vegetables, creamy cottage cheese, and a blend of flavorful spices. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it combines protein-rich ingredients with colorful veggies for a healthy, satisfying meal.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Vegetables

• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

Dairy & Eggs

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 eggs

Spices & Oil

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Cooking spray or additional olive oil (for greasing)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the veggie dish.
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
3. Combine Vegetables and Cottage Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced bell pepper, sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, red onion, and the cottage cheese. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Mix Egg and Seasonings: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano until fully blended.
5. Integrate Egg Mixture with Veggies: Pour the seasoned egg mixture over the vegetable and cottage cheese blend. Stir thoroughly until everything is well coated and combined.
6. Transfer and Top: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to add a golden, cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bake is set through.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the bake cool slightly to set further and make serving easier. Serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute mozzarella with any preferred melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or carrots based on your preference.
• For a lower-fat version, use low-fat cottage cheese and reduce the amount of olive oil.
• This bake can be prepared in advance and reheated for quick meals.
• Adjust spices to suit your taste, adding red pepper flakes for some heat if desired.

Keywords: High protein, Veggie bake, Cottage cheese recipe, Healthy bake, Vegetarian bake, Low fat meal, Oven-baked vegetables