Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche With Roasted Red Pepper Swirl

Looking for a healthy, satisfying, and visually stunning brunch or light lunch option? This Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche with Roasted Red Pepper Swirl is your answer! We’ve taken the classic quiche and lightened it up by skipping the pastry crust, relying instead on a creamy cottage cheese base. The vibrant swirl of roasted red pepper not only adds a beautiful touch but also a delightful smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the savory filling. It’s easier to make than you think, and the results are truly impressive. Get ready to wow your family and friends with this flavorful and wholesome bake!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredient Lineup

• 200g (7oz) Cottage Cheese – Mild, Full-Fat: We’re using full-fat cottage cheese for the richest, creamiest texture. Mild cottage cheese ensures the flavor doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat, but be aware the texture will be slightly less creamy.
• 4 Large Eggs (≈200g / 7oz): Eggs are the binding agent for our quiche, providing structure and richness. Large eggs are standard for baking, ensuring consistent results.
• 120ml (½ cup) Whole Milk: Milk adds moisture and helps create a smooth, custard-like consistency. Whole milk contributes to a richer flavor, but you can substitute with 2% or even unsweetened almond milk if desired.
• 100g (3½oz) Fresh Spinach, Chopped: Spinach brings a boost of nutrients and a subtle earthy flavor. Fresh spinach is preferred for its texture and flavor, but frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) can be used in a pinch.
• 1 Medium Onion, Thinly Sliced: Onions provide a savory base flavor that deepens as they caramelize. Thinly slicing ensures they cook evenly and become beautifully sweet.
• 1 Roasted Red Bell Pepper, Puréed (≈150g / 5oz): The star of the swirl! Roasting the red pepper intensifies its sweetness and creates a smoky flavor. You can roast your own or use a jarred roasted red pepper for convenience.
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth that complements the roasted red pepper and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil, Divided: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and spinach, and for greasing the baking pan. Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for its flavor.
• ½ tsp Salt, Plus Extra to Taste: Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• ¼ tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity. Freshly ground pepper is always best for its aroma and flavor.
• 2 tbsp Milk (for the swirl): A little extra milk helps thin out the roasted red pepper purée, making it easier to swirl.
• Fresh Chives, Finely Chopped, for Garnish: Chives add a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color. They’re the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? Here are a few simple substitutions you can make:

• Cottage Cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute, though it will result in a slightly different texture.
• Whole Milk: 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk can be used.
• Spinach: Kale or other leafy greens can be substituted.
• Smoked Paprika: Sweet paprika can be used, but you’ll miss out on the smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Crustless Quiche

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures even cooking. Generously grease a 23cm (9-inch) tart pan or deep skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. A well-greased pan is crucial for easy removal of the quiche after baking.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 8-10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a deep golden and caramelized color. Caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the quiche. Don’t rush this step!
3. Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the same skillet used for the onions. Sauté for about 2 minutes, just until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt. Spinach wilts quickly, so keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking. Wilted spinach provides a subtle earthy flavor and adds valuable nutrients.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, cottage cheese, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps of cottage cheese remaining for a creamy texture.
5. Combine Spinach and Onions: Gently fold the sautéed spinach and caramelized onions into the egg-cottage cheese mixture. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Create the Roasted Red Pepper Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the roasted red pepper purée, smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir until you have a pourable, vividly red sauce. The smoked paprika enhances the sweetness of the red pepper and adds a smoky depth.
7. Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the egg-cottage mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop half of the red pepper swirl in random spots over the egg mixture. Using a skewer or the tip of a spoon, gently swirl the red pepper sauce to create ribbons. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the top, followed by the remaining red pepper swirl, and swirl again lightly. Avoid over-swirling, as this can muddy the colors.
8. Bake to Perfection: Bake the quiche for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. To check for doneness, gently shake the pan; the center should not wobble excessively. If you desire a deeper golden color, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
9. Rest and Serve: Allow the quiche to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the quiche to set further and makes it easier to cut. Slide a wide knife through the center to reveal the striking red ribbons.
10. Garnish and Enjoy: Plate each slice on a clean white plate. Drizzle a thin line of any leftover red pepper sauce around the edge for added flavor and visual appeal. Scatter the chopped chives over the top for a fresh green contrast.

Why Cottage Cheese Makes the Best Crustless Quiche

Traditional quiches rely on a pastry crust for structure and richness. This recipe cleverly replaces the crust with cottage cheese, offering a healthier and surprisingly delicious alternative. Cottage cheese provides a creamy, custard-like texture without the need for heavy cream or excessive amounts of cheese. Its mild flavor blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, while its high protein content keeps you feeling full and satisfied. The full-fat cottage cheese is recommended for optimal texture and flavor, but reduced-fat can be used if preferred, though the result may be slightly less creamy.

The Magic of Roasted Red Pepper

The roasted red pepper swirl isn’t just for aesthetics; it adds a significant layer of flavor complexity. Roasting the red pepper intensifies its sweetness and creates a smoky undertone that complements the savory quiche filling. The vibrant color also makes the quiche visually appealing, elevating it from a simple breakfast or brunch dish to a stunning centerpiece. Using a high-quality roasted red pepper, either homemade or store-bought, is key to achieving the best flavor.

Tips for a Flawless Swirl

Achieving a beautiful swirl effect is easier than you might think. The key is to use a gentle hand and avoid overmixing. Drop the red pepper purée in small dollops across the surface of the egg mixture. Then, using a skewer or the tip of a spoon, drag it through the purée in a swirling motion. Don’t try to create perfect spirals; the more random the swirl, the more visually interesting the quiche will be. A little goes a long way – you want ribbons of color, not a completely red quiche.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This crustless cottage cheese quiche is incredibly versatile. It’s delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad and a side of fresh fruit for a complete meal. For variations, consider adding other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or Gruyère, for a unique flavor profile. A sprinkle of chili flakes can add a touch of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the quiche a day ahead and reheat it gently in the oven.
• Can I freeze this quiche? Yes, you can freeze the baked quiche. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• What if I don’t have smoked paprika? You can substitute regular paprika, but the smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor.

This Crustless Cottage Cheese Quiche with Roasted Red Pepper Swirl is a delightful and healthy dish that’s sure to impress. Its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and delicious flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later inspiration!

crustless cottage cheese breakfast quiche high protein delicious

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• Author: Alyssa Bennett
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Healthy

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Description

This crustless cottage cheese quiche is a healthy and visually appealing brunch or light lunch option. It features a creamy cottage cheese base and a vibrant roasted red pepper swirl for a delightful smoky sweetness.

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Ingredients

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• 200g (7oz) Cottage Cheese (mild, full-fat)
• 4 Large Eggs (≈200g / 7oz)
• 120ml (½ cup) Whole Milk
• 100g (3½oz) Fresh Spinach, chopped
• 1 Medium Onion, thinly sliced
• 150g (5oz) Roasted Red Bell Pepper, puréed
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil, divided
• ½ tsp Salt, plus to taste
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Milk (for swirl)
• Fresh Chives, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 23cm (9-inch) pan with 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Caramelize Onions: Sauté sliced onion in 1 tbsp olive oil for 8-10 minutes until golden.
3. Wilt Spinach: Add spinach to onions and sauté for 2 minutes until wilted; season with salt.
4. Mix Egg Base: Whisk eggs, milk, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Combine Filling: Fold spinach and onions into the egg mixture.
6. Make Red Pepper Swirl: Combine red pepper purée, paprika, 2 tbsp milk, and salt.
7. Layer & Swirl: Pour half the egg mixture into the pan, add red pepper swirl, and gently swirl. Repeat with remaining mixture.
8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
9. Rest & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
10. Garnish: Garnish with chopped chives.

Notes

For optimal texture, use full-fat cottage cheese. Roasting the red pepper intensifies its sweetness. Avoid over-swirling the red pepper to maintain distinct ribbons.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg