Mediterranean High-Protein Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake

Introduction

This Mediterranean-inspired veggie bake is loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and protein-packed cottage cheese. It’s a perfect low-carb, high-protein meal prep dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Creamy cottage cheese adds richness while keeping calories in check, and the Mediterranean herbs bring brightness and flavor.

 Ingredients (serves 6)

2 cups low-fat cottage cheese

4 large eggs

½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small zucchini, diced

1 small red bell pepper, diced

1 cup baby spinach, chopped

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 small red onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp paprika

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

Crumbled feta cheese

Fresh basil leaves

 Instructions

Preheat oven: Heat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.

Cook veggies: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion, garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Set aside to cool slightly.

Mix base: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Combine: Stir in sautéed veggies and cherry tomatoes.

Bake: Pour mixture into the baking dish, spread evenly, and bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set in the center.

Serve: Let cool 10 minutes, then slice into squares. Garnish with feta and fresh basil if desired.

 Q/A

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! This bake keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely. Bake, cool, cut into squares, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I add more protein?
A: Yes—add cooked chicken, turkey, or chickpeas for extra protein.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Swap cottage cheese for silken tofu or dairy-free ricotta, and use plant-based cheese.

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 Tips

Don’t skip sautéing veggies—it prevents excess water from making the bake soggy.

Customize veggies: Add eggplant, mushrooms, or broccoli for variety.

For extra Mediterranean flair: Top with olives and sun-dried tomatoes before baking.

Make it spicier: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of harissa.

Nutrition (per serving, 1 of 6)

Calories: 220 kcal

Protein: 20 g

Fat: 12 g

Carbs: 8 g (Net Carbs: ~6 g after fiber)

Fiber: 2 g

Sugar: 4 g