Prep Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes
• Servings: 9 squares
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups grated carrots (about 2–3 medium carrots)
• 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 4 large eggs, well beaten
• ½ cup almond flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Box grater or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish
• Parchment paper or cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Grate the carrots and zucchini.
2. Place zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
3. This prevents the squares from becoming watery.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine:
   • Grated carrots
   • Grated zucchini
   • Cottage cheese
   • Beaten eggs
   • Almond flour
   • Shredded cheddar cheese
   • Onion powder
   • Salt
2. Stir until evenly combined.

Step 4: Bake

1. Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until:
   • The center is set
   • Edges are lightly golden
   • A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
2. Slice into 9 squares.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Per Square (1/9 of Recipe)

Entire Recipe

Values vary by cheese, cottage cheese, and almond flour brands.

Detailed Ingredient Nutrition

Carrots (2 cups)

• Calories: ~100
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 7g

Zucchini (2 cups)

• Calories: ~35
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 7g
• Fiber: 2g

Cottage Cheese (1 cup)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fat: 2g

Eggs (4 large)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 20g

Almond Flour (½ cup)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 28g

Cheddar Cheese (1 cup)

• Calories: ~440
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 36g

Allergen Information

Contains

• Eggs
• Milk (cottage cheese, cheddar cheese)
• Tree nuts (almond flour)

May Contain

Depending on brands used:

• Soy
• Wheat traces from shared manufacturing facilities

Gluten-Free?

Yes, when all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Nut Information

Tree Nuts Present

This recipe contains:

• Almonds (via almond flour)

For Nut Allergies

Replace almond flour with one of the following:

• Oat flour (not low-carb)
• Sunflower seed flour
• Chickpea flour
• Gluten-free all-purpose flour

Cross-Reactivity

People with severe tree nut allergies should verify all ingredient labels for cross-contamination warnings.

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer

• Freeze individually wrapped squares for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Microwave: 30–45 seconds
• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes
• Air fryer: 3–4 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. They are excellent for meal prep and often taste even better the next day.

Q: Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes. Ricotta provides a creamier texture but slightly less protein.

Q: Why squeeze the zucchini?

Zucchini contains a lot of water. Removing excess moisture helps the squares hold together and prevents sogginess.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Try:

• Spinach
• Bell peppers
• Mushrooms
• Broccoli
• Green onions

Q: Are these keto-friendly?

They can fit into many lower-carb eating plans, though carrots contribute some carbohydrates.

Q: Can I make them dairy-free?

You can substitute:

• Dairy-free shredded cheese
• Dairy-free cottage cheese alternative

Texture and protein content will differ.

Q: Can I add meat?

Yes. Mix in:

• Cooked chicken breast
• Lean turkey
• Turkey bacon
• Diced ham

Q: How do I know when they’re done?

The center should feel firm and no longer jiggle when the pan is gently shaken.

Q: Can kids eat these?

Yes. The mild cheesy flavor and soft texture make them popular with children.

Q: What can I serve with veggie squares?

• Fresh salad
• Greek yogurt dip
• Tomato soup
• Roasted vegetables
• Avocado slices