“Sesame Nest” features tender baked eggs tucked into a golden cottage cheese-and-cheese shell, finished with fragrant sesame seeds. The whites set to a delicate bounce, the yolks stay silky and soft, and the crust turns beautifully bronzed and inviting. It takes just 20 minutes and pairs especially well with fresh herbs, yogurt, and slices of avocado.
Ingredients
- Cottage cheese, 5% — 200g (7 oz)
- Hard cheese, grated — 60g (2.1 oz)
- Sesame seeds — 2 tbsp
- Chicken eggs — 2
- Green onion, finely chopped — 10g (0.35 oz)
- Salt — 1/4 tsp
- Ground black pepper — a pinch
- Sweet paprika — 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Olive oil — 1 tsp (for greasing)
- Plain yogurt and avocado — for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (374°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Mix the cottage cheese, grated cheese, sesame seeds, green onion, salt, pepper, and paprika until evenly combined.
- Divide the mixture into 2 portions and place them on the baking sheet in two circles, about 8–10 cm (3–4 in) wide. Shape the edges to form a nest, leaving a well in the center.
- Carefully crack one egg into each well.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the whites are set and the yolks are still soft and creamy. For a firmer yolk, bake 2–3 minutes longer.
- Serve immediately with yogurt, avocado slices, and fresh herbs.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | ≈ 440 kcal |
| Protein | ≈ 27 g |
| Fat | ≈ 28.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | ≈ 5.5 g |
| Fiber | ≈ 1.8 g |
| Sugars | ≈ 2 g |
| Sodium | ≈ 800 mg |
📹 Watch video recipe in our Telegram channel
Tips and Variations
- Dairy-free version: swap the cheese for a lactose-free alternative, and replace the cottage cheese with thick plain soy yogurt, adding 1–2 tbsp oat flour for body.
- Extra crunch: replace part of the sesame with toasted black sesame or add 1 tbsp flax seeds.
- Herbs and spices: dill, parsley, chili flakes, smoked paprika, or garlic granules all work beautifully.
- Skillet method: shape the nests in a nonstick skillet and cook, covered, over low heat for 6–8 minutes.
- To serve: pair with whole-grain toast, a tomato-cucumber salad, or a light yogurt-lemon sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the yolk runny?
Reduce the baking time to 9–10 minutes and serve at once so the yolk stays soft and creamy.
Can I replace the cottage cheese?
Yes. Use ricotta or thick Greek yogurt. If the mixture seems too loose, add 1–2 tbsp grated cheese or 1 tbsp oat flour.
Can this be frozen?
No. Egg dishes lose their texture after freezing and thawing, so it is best made and served right away.
Which cheeses work best?
Semi-hard, good-melting cheeses such as Gouda, cheddar, Maasdam, or young mozzarella are ideal. They create a lovely golden crust and a fuller flavor.