Mediterranean High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake
This Mediterranean-inspired bake is a light yet filling dish that combines fresh vegetables with a protein-rich cottage cheese and egg base. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a healthy dinner option. The mix of zucchini, peppers, cherry tomatoes, and spinach adds color and nutrition, while cottage cheese and eggs create a creamy, satisfying texture. This bake is easy to prep ahead, reheats well, and is both wholesome and versatile.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 50–55 minutes
Ingredients
Vegetable Layer:
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced yellow bell pepper
1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1 cup chopped baby spinach
½ cup finely chopped red onion
Cottage Cheese Layer:
2 cups cottage cheese
3 large eggs
½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)
Seasonings:
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish (about 9×9-inch or similar).
Prepare vegetables: Dice the zucchini, bell peppers, and onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the spinach.
Assemble vegetable layer: Spread all prepared vegetables evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
Mix cottage cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, eggs, shredded cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine: Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the vegetables, spreading it evenly. Gently tap the dish on the counter to help everything settle.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set (a toothpick should come out clean).
Cool & serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm as a main or side dish.
Tips
Drain cottage cheese if watery: If your cottage cheese has a lot of liquid, strain it for a few minutes before mixing. This helps the bake set firmly.
Cut vegetables evenly: Dice veggies into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Don’t overbake: Start checking at 35 minutes. Overbaking can make the bake rubbery instead of tender.
Rest before slicing: Let it sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to firm up and cut cleanly.
Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats well. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Variations
Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, gouda, or feta instead of cheddar or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Herb upgrade: Add fresh parsley, basil, or dill for more Mediterranean freshness.
Spice it up: A dash of paprika, chili flakes, or za’atar gives extra depth.
Protein boost: Stir in diced cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for added protein.
Low-carb twist: Replace bell peppers with extra zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for fewer carbs.
Mini bakes: Divide mixture into muffin tins for individual grab-and-go portions.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them well before adding, or the bake may turn watery.
Q: Is this dish good for breakfast meal prep?
A: Definitely. It reheats well and can be portioned into squares or muffins for easy grab-and-go meals.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: You can try using dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives and skip the shredded cheese, though texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Q: How do I know when it’s done baking?
A: The top should be lightly golden and the center firm. Insert a toothpick or knife—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~180
Protein: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Calcium: 15% DV
(Approximate values; will vary depending on cheese and vegetable choices.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake is a colorful, wholesome dish that blends fresh vegetables with a creamy, protein-packed cottage cheese base. It’s simple to make, keeps well for leftovers, and can be served hot or cold. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or as a light dinner, it’s a versatile recipe that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and convenience.