Looking for a quick, protein-packed snack or a comforting breakfast? These Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are soft on the inside, golden and slightly crispy on the outside, and filled with cheesy goodness. Blending the creaminess of cottage cheese with fresh baby spinach and mozzarella, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings, light lunches, or an anytime snack that everyone will love.
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Packed with nutrients and flavor, these flagels are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. From prep to bake, they take under 30 minutes and are versatile enough for any mealtime.
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Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 large egg (vegan option: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp baking powder (ensure fresh)
- 1 tsp salt (sea salt preferred)
For the Filling
- 2 cups baby spinach, finely chopped (or kale as a substitute)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or feta for a tangy twist)
Instructions for Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels
1. Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, blend cottage cheese, olive oil, and egg until smooth and creamy. This creates the rich base for your flagels.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt for an even flavor distribution.
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3. Mix Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough soft and fluffy.
4. Fold in Spinach and Cheese
Gently incorporate baby spinach and shredded mozzarella, making sure the filling is evenly distributed.
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5. Shape the Flagels
With floured hands, form the dough into bagel-like shapes, creating a small hole in the center. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the flagels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Optional: enjoy warm with cream cheese or hummus.
Pro Tips
- Choose full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier, richer flavor.
- Check baking powder freshness for optimal rise.
- Chop spinach finely to blend smoothly into the dough.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the interior soft.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for busy schedules.
- Protein-Packed: Cottage cheese and mozzarella boost nutrition.
- Versatile: Enjoy for breakfast, lunch, snack, or dinner.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A unique flavor and texture combination everyone loves.
Substitutions & Variations
- Cheese Swap: Use feta, cheddar, or goat cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Greens: Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula can replace spinach.
- Herbs & Spices: Add dill, chives, or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
- Mediterranean Flair: Include sun-dried tomatoes or olives.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds.
- Sweet Version: Add honey and diced apples for a brunch twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crunch and softness.
Serving Ideas for Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels
- Pair with creamy hummus or tzatziki for dipping.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light lunch.
- Add a zesty tomato salsa for a flavor contrast.
- Complement with roasted vegetables or avocado toast.
- Enjoy with a fruity smoothie or herbal tea for a balanced meal.
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Vitamin A: 700 IU
- Vitamin C: 15 mg
- Calcium: 150 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of spinach?
A: Fresh baby spinach is ideal, but finely chopped kale works well too.
Q: Can I freeze the flagels?
A: Yes! Wrap individually in plastic, freeze up to 3 months, and reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Q: My dough is too sticky. What should I do?
A: Gradually add flour, 1 tbsp at a time, until manageable. Avoid overworking the dough.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feta adds tanginess, while parmesan or cheddar adds depth.
Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
These Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are a versatile, quick, and protein-rich snack that satisfies cravings and supports a balanced diet. Soft, cheesy, and flavorful, they’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or anytime you need a comforting treat. Try making them today—you’ll want to bake a second batch immediately!
Irresistible Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups baby spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, blend cottage cheese, olive oil, and egg until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chopped spinach and shredded mozzarella until evenly distributed.
- Shape dough into flagels and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
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