Winter Garden High Protein (Printable)
Hearty baked dish with seasonal vegetables, lean protein, and warming spices for a nourishing meal.
# List of ingredients:
→ Protein
01 - 14 oz cooked chicken breast, diced (or firm tofu for vegetarian option)
02 - 1 can (14 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
04 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
05 - 1 small head broccoli, cut into florets
06 - 1 small red onion, diced
07 - 2 cups baby spinach
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce & Binding
09 - 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
10 - 1/3 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 2 oz grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 2 tbsp olive oil
14 - 1 tsp dried thyme
15 - 1 tsp dried oregano
16 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
17 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a large baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
02 - In a large bowl, toss sweet potato, carrots, broccoli, and red onion with remaining olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread evenly in prepared baking dish and roast for 20 minutes.
03 - Whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan, thyme, oregano, and minced garlic until smooth.
04 - Remove baking dish from oven. Stir in diced chicken (or tofu), white beans, and baby spinach into the roasted vegetables.
05 - Pour cottage cheese mixture evenly over the vegetable and protein mixture. Return to oven and bake for 20 minutes until set and lightly golden on top.
06 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This bake feels like a secret weapon for cold days, packed with protein that keeps you full and energized.
- It’s flexible enough to adapt with whatever winter vegetables you have, making it a favorite go-to whenever you want comfort without fuss.
02 -
- Don't skip resting the bake a few minutes; it firms up the texture and makes slicing easier.
- Mixing the sauce well is key to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy consistency throughout.
03 -
- Use a sharp knife to slice the bake to keep edges clean and presentable.
- For extra protein, stir in ½ cup cooked quinoa along with the beans for texture and depth.