These Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels offer a savory, nutritious alternative to your regular bagels. The combination of spinach and cottage cheese provides a creamy texture, while the whole wheat flour adds a hearty and wholesome touch. These flagels are perfect for a light breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a healthy sandwich base.
What makes these flagels unique is the addition of spinach and cottage cheese, which gives them a delightful flavor and boost of protein. They are easy to make, and the light, crispy exterior and soft interior make for a satisfying treat. Customize them by adding herbs, spices, or a different cheese of your choice for a personalized twist. Whether enjoyed on their own or topped with your favorite spread, these flagels are a delicious and healthy option.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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2 teaspoons dried oregano
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 cup cottage cheese
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1 cup spinach, chopped
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1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
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Sesame seeds, for topping (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and oregano. Stir to mix.
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Add the olive oil, cottage cheese, and spinach into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour to reach the right consistency.
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Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Roll the dough out into a flat disk, about ¾ inch thick. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of dough (about 3 inches in diameter).
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Place the cut-out dough circles on a lined baking sheet. Brush each with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if using.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 8 flagels
Why Choose Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels?
Flagels, a variation of bagels that are flatter and denser, are a great way to enjoy the beloved bagel without all the doughy fluffiness. They offer the same satisfying crunch and chewiness as a traditional bagel but with fewer carbs and more nutrients. By incorporating spinach and cottage cheese into the dough, this recipe provides a savory twist that brings flavor and nutrition to the forefront.
Spinach is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones, a healthy immune system, and good vision. Cottage cheese, on the other hand, is rich in protein, calcium, and low in fat, making it an excellent ingredient for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or build muscle. These two ingredients come together to create a delicious, nutrient-dense flagel that will fuel you for the day ahead.
Health Benefits of Spinach and Cottage Cheese
Spinach is widely known for its health benefits, and incorporating it into your diet can lead to significant improvements in your overall wellness. This leafy green is loaded with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Moreover, spinach is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. The combination of fiber and water content in spinach can promote a feeling of fullness, making it a great choice for weight management.
Cottage cheese is another powerhouse ingredient. It’s an excellent source of casein protein, which digests slowly and keeps you feeling full for longer. This makes it an ideal option for breakfast or a mid-day snack. Additionally, cottage cheese contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help support digestive health. Its creamy texture also makes it an appealing choice for adding richness to savory dishes, like these flagels.
How to Make These Flagels Fit Into Your Diet
One of the great things about these Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels is their versatility. Whether you follow a vegetarian, low-carb, or gluten-free diet, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit your needs.
For those on a gluten-free diet, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative such as almond flour or a pre-made gluten-free flour blend. For a lower-carb option, consider using a low-carb flour substitute like coconut flour. This will keep the flagels satisfying while helping to reduce your carbohydrate intake.
For individuals following a vegetarian or plant-based lifestyle, you can easily substitute the cottage cheese with a vegan cheese alternative, such as a cashew-based cream cheese, or simply omit it and use more spinach to maintain the dish’s delicious texture and flavor. This gives you a vegan-friendly option that’s still rich in flavor and packed with nutrients.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels
While these flagels are delicious on their own, there are many ways you can elevate them and customize them to your tastes. Here are a few ideas on how to serve these healthy bagels:
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Breakfast Sandwiches: Slice a flagel in half and use it as the base for a breakfast sandwich. Add a scrambled egg, avocado, or smoked salmon for a protein-packed morning meal.
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Topped with Spreads: Spread some hummus, guacamole, or a dollop of Greek yogurt on your flagel for an added burst of flavor. You can also add some chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, or a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
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Snack Time: Slice them into smaller pieces and dip them in your favorite dip, such as a yogurt-based ranch dressing or a tzatziki sauce. This makes for a great snack that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
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With Cheese: For those who enjoy a bit more indulgence, a sprinkle of your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, on top of a toasted flagel can make for a delightful treat. You can also melt the cheese over the top in the oven for a gooey, irresistible finish.
Making the Most of Leftovers
The great thing about these flagels is that they store well, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Once baked, allow the flagels to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just pop them in the toaster or oven for a quick reheat, and they’ll taste as fresh as when they were first made.
Tips for Perfect Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels
To ensure your Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels come out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
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Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach will give your flagels the best flavor and texture. Be sure to chop it finely before adding it to the dough so it mixes evenly.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough flagels. Gently mix the ingredients until everything is combined, then knead the dough for just a few minutes until smooth.
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Use a Well-Floured Surface: The dough can be a bit sticky, so be sure to flour your work surface well before rolling it out. This will prevent it from sticking and make shaping the flagels much easier.
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Experiment with Seasonings: While the basic recipe uses dried oregano, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Why These Flagels Are Perfect for Any Occasion
The beauty of these Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels is their versatility. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, a wholesome snack, or even a savory lunch. Their savory flavor makes them a wonderful base for any toppings or fillings you want to add, whether it’s eggs, avocado, or a slice of tomato.
Moreover, they’re great for meal prep or making in large batches for gatherings. They’re easy to make ahead of time and can be frozen or stored, allowing you to enjoy a homemade, healthy snack whenever you like.
Conclusion
Incorporating Spinach and Cottage Cheese Flagels into your diet is a great way to enjoy a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile snack or meal. Not only do they provide essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and antioxidants, but they also offer the opportunity to experiment with different flavors and toppings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option, a savory snack, or something to serve at a gathering, these flagels are the perfect choice.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying, wholesome dish that’s both delicious and nourishing. Give them a try and discover how easy it is to make healthy food that fits your lifestyle and tastes great!