Welcome to this delightful recipe for a Cottage Cheese and Spinach Casserole! This dish is unusually tender, tasty, and healthy, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. With creamy cottage cheese, fresh spinach, and a hint of cheese, it’s both satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into the preparation!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500 g cottage cheese (choose your preferred fat content)
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- 80 g hard cheese (more if desired)
- 10 g coconut flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Fresh dill (optional)
- 2 cloves of garlic (optional)
- 50–300 g fresh spinach (adjust to taste)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). - Prepare the Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and salt. If your hard cheese is salty, adjust the salt accordingly. Stir in half of the grated hard cheese. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Mix in the coconut flour and baking powder. If you prefer, add chopped fresh dill or press 2 cloves of garlic for added flavor. - Incorporate Spinach:
Add fresh spinach to the mixture. You can use anywhere from 50 g to 300 g depending on your preference. The more, the healthier! - Combine and Divide:
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Divide the mixture into two parts. - Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a baking mold (about 15-16 cm in diameter) and pour half of the mixture into the mold. Top with the remaining cheese. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top. - Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious warm and pairs well with yogurt, garlic, and dry herbs.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a main dish or a side.
- Pair with a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy with a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the amount of spinach based on your taste preferences; it adds nutrition without extra calories.
- If you don’t like dill, feel free to skip it or replace it with herbs you enjoy.
- For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different hard cheeses.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cottage Cheese: High in protein and calcium, beneficial for muscle and bone health.
- Spinach: Low in calories and packed with vitamins A and K; great for detoxification.
- Eggs: A source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (if using gluten-free baking powder)
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Filling: A nutritious option that satisfies hunger.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and quick preparation time.
- Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Conclusion:
Thank you for trying our Cottage Cheese and Spinach Casserole! This dish not only delivers on flavor but is also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a wholesome meal. We hope it becomes a favorite in your home, and we’d love to hear your feedback or any variations you try. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. - What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
You can use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute, but this may slightly change the texture and flavor. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best texture. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. - Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this casserole is a great way to incorporate spinach and cottage cheese into your child’s diet. You can also adjust the flavors to suit their taste. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. - How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, you can use plant-based cottage cheese, flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), and skip the cheese. - What type of cheese should I use?
Any hard cheese you prefer will work. Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda are great options, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. - Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking time. - How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.