This Baked Zucchini and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a delicious, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With a combination of fresh vegetables, cottage cheese, and mozzarella, this casserole is both nutritious and satisfying. The Italian herbs and garlic add a savory depth of flavor, making it a wholesome meal that the whole family will enjoy!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 medium zucchini, grated or chopped
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 small tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Vegetables:
- Grate or chop the zucchini, chop the bell pepper, green onions, and tomatoes.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- In a Large Bowl:
- Add the beaten eggs, chopped zucchini, bell pepper, green onions, tomatoes, cottage cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
- Season:
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried garlic, and Italian herbs.
- Mix Well:
- Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Transfer to a Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool Slightly and Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Pair with whole grain toast or a slice of crusty bread for a hearty breakfast.
- Enjoy alongside grilled meats or fish for a more filling meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for a flavor boost.
Cooking Tips:
- Squeeze the Zucchini: If the zucchini is too watery, squeeze out the excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Cheese Options: You can swap mozzarella for cheddar or feta for a different flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as basil or parsley, add them for extra freshness.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, which promote immune health and good vision.
- Cottage cheese adds a good amount of protein and calcium, helping build strong muscles and bones.
- Eggs provide protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, making this casserole a nutritious and balanced meal.
- Tomatoes and peppers are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb: This casserole is low in carbohydrates, perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) or in the microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients, perfect for busy days.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with protein and veggies, this casserole offers a well-balanced meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting, cheesy dish that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Conclusion:
This Baked Zucchini and Cottage Cheese Casserole is a versatile, healthy dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its simple preparation and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead breakfast, this casserole has you covered. Enjoy the combination of fresh vegetables, creamy cottage cheese, and gooey mozzarella in every bite!