Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 250 grams cottage cheese
02 - 100 grams shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

→ Produce

03 - 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 150 grams mushrooms, sliced

→ Protein

06 - 4 large eggs

→ Spices and Oils

07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
10 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Thinly slice zucchini using a mandoline or sharp knife; dice red bell pepper and slice mushrooms. Lightly sauté mushrooms and bell pepper in olive oil until softened, then set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs until smooth. Fold in half of the shredded cheese.
03 - Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish. Layer zucchini slices first, followed by sautéed vegetables, then pour a portion of the egg and cottage cheese mixture evenly. Repeat layering until ingredients are used, finishing with the remaining shredded cheese on top.
04 - Preheat oven to 190°C. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbling.
05 - Allow the bake to cool for 10 minutes to set before slicing and serving.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Sautéing moisture-rich vegetables prior to baking prevents excess water and sogginess.
02 - Resting the bake before slicing ensures clean cuts and better structure.