Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake

Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake: A Wholesome Comfort Dish You’ll Crave Again and Again

Introducing a dish that seamlessly marries simplicity with sophistication—Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake. This delightful medley showcases the creaminess of cottage cheese paired with fresh vegetables, enveloped in an herb-infused backdrop. As the components meld and bake, they create a dish that is both nourishing and refined, perfect for both casual dining and elegant gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

• Effortless Yet Elegant: A stunning centerpiece without intensive preparation.
• Minimal Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples and fresh produce for an appealing impact.
• Impressive Flavor: The harmony of textures and flavors creates a memorable experience.

This dish transcends ordinary baking by highlighting the fresh, vibrant notes of seasonal vegetables, which come alive with a hint of herbs and spices. Its rich yet light profile is sure to inspire culinary curiosity among guests.

Ingredients

Base

• 2 cups cottage cheese (drain any excess liquid)
• 1 cup fine breadcrumbs (fresh for best texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for depth)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, grated (sweated to remove excess moisture)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure even cooking and a beautifully golden top.
2. In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, red bell pepper, and grated zucchini. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. In a large bowl, combine the drained cottage cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a cohesive base.
5. Incorporate the sautéed mixture into the bowl, followed by the eggs and oregano. Stir until completely blended; the mixture should be thick yet smooth.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Generously sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the surface, ensuring an even layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving—this allows the flavors to settle.

How to Serve Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake

Elevate the presentation by serving in individual ramekins or as a plated portion, garnished with fresh parsley. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the visual appeal and flavor. Pair with a lightly dressed mixed greens salad for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake

To preserve freshness, allow the dish to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a gentle oven temperature to prevent the bake from drying out—about 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes should suffice.

Tips to Make Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake

• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh basil or thyme can elevate the dish with aromatic flavors.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms can provide variation and added depth.
• Texture Variation: For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top before serving.

Variation

For a gourmet twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms and truffle oil to the vegetable mixture, or using different cheese varieties for a unique flavor profile. Serve with a dollop of herbed yogurt for a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, but it may alter the overall creaminess of the dish.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.

Can I freeze leftover Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. To preserve quality, ensure it is tightly wrapped and reheated gently from frozen.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures, effortlessly combining the richness of cottage cheese with the vibrancy of fresh vegetables. This dish stands as a testament to the joy of simple ingredients prepared with care. Share your thoughts and experiences with us, and let us know how you would make this dish your own.

Cottage Cheese and Veggie Bake

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• Author: chef-ava
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A wholesome medley of cottage cheese and fresh vegetables baked to perfection, embodying both simplicity and sophistication.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cottage cheese (drained)
• 1 cup fine breadcrumbs (fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, grated (sweated)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium-sized skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, red bell pepper, and grated zucchini; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine drained cottage cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper; mix thoroughly.
5. Add the sautéed vegetable mixture, eggs, and oregano; stir until blended.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, smoothing the top.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serve in individual ramekins or plated portions, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg