Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

This Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe is a delightful dish that combines a rich custard filling with the delicate flavor of zucchini, herbs, and the mellow saltiness of smoked gouda cheese. Perfect for breakfast or dinner, this quiche is easy to prepare and satisfies any palate. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe stands out with its simplicity and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this delicious quiche in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of smoked gouda, fresh chives, and dill creates a unique taste that pairs wonderfully with zucchini.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it warm for breakfast or at room temperature for lunch or dinner; this quiche fits any occasion perfectly.
• Low Carb Option: Enjoy a satisfying meal without the extra carbs from traditional crusts.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from eggs and vitamins from zucchini, this dish is both healthy and fulfilling.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe a success, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Grater
• Whisk
• 9-inch pie dish
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spills or mess.
• Grater: This tool is crucial for shredding zucchini efficiently, ensuring even cooking in the quiche.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to blend eggs and cream thoroughly for a light, fluffy texture in your quiche.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Base

• 1 pound grated zucchini
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Custard Filling

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz smoked gouda cheese (or add 1/8 – 1/4 tsp liquid smoke)

For Flavoring

• 2 tbsp snipped fresh chives
• 1/2 tsp dried dill
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper

For Greasing

• 2 tsp soft butter

How to Make Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by grating the zucchini. Place it in a mixing bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your quiche cooks evenly.

Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Cream

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. This mixture will create a rich custard base.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the grated zucchini to the egg mixture along with the smoked gouda cheese, chives, dill, remaining salt, and white pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Grease the Pie Dish

Use soft butter to grease your 9-inch pie dish. This will prevent sticking during baking.

Step 6: Pour Mixture into Dish

Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared pie dish. Spread it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 7: Bake the Quiche

Place the pie dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until the center is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once done, remove from oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as desired. Enjoy your delicious Crustless Zucchini Quiche!

How to Serve Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

Serving your Crustless Zucchini Quiche is all about bringing out its delightful flavors. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that pairs well with the rich flavors of the quiche.
• Greek Yogurt: Serve with a side of creamy Greek yogurt topped with honey for a sweet and tangy contrast.

For Lunch

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the quiche’s custard texture without overwhelming it.
• Tomato Soup: Enjoy alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting combination.

For Dinner

• Roasted Vegetables: Pairing the quiche with roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the meal’s nutritional value and adds vibrant colors to your plate.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or rolls for those who enjoy a bit of crunch with their meal.

How to Perfect Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Crustless Zucchini Quiche, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini provides better flavor and texture than older or watery ones.
• Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Before mixing, gently squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini to prevent a soggy quiche.
• Experiment with Cheese: While smoked gouda adds depth, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like feta or cheddar for different flavors.
• Bake Until Set: Make sure to bake the quiche until it’s fully set in the middle; this ensures a perfect custard-like consistency.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the quiche to cool slightly before slicing helps it hold its shape better when served.

Best Side Dishes for Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

A well-rounded meal often includes complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options that go wonderfully with your Crustless Zucchini Quiche.

1. Simple Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to the meal.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread brings a delicious crunch and garlicky flavor that pairs well with the quiche.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
4. Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Cucumber Mint Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in mint yogurt offers cooling relief alongside rich flavors.
6. Fruit Smoothie: Blend up a fruity smoothie as an energizing drink option that balances the savory quiche nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a crustless zucchini quiche can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using too much zucchini: Overloading your quiche with zucchini can lead to excess moisture. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced texture.
• Not squeezing out moisture: Failing to drain grated zucchini can result in a soggy quiche. Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting herbs and spices can make your quiche bland. Season generously with chives, dill, and pepper for flavor enhancement.
• Overbaking the quiche: Leaving it in the oven too long can cause a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on cooking time and test for doneness by checking if the center is set.
• Not letting it cool before slicing: Cutting into the quiche too soon can lead to messy slices. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe unique?

This recipe stands out due to its rich custard filling combined with smoked gouda cheese and fresh herbs, creating a delightful flavor profile.

Can I customize my Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out cheeses or add different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach according to your taste preferences.

How long does the Crustless Zucchini Quiche last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this quiche lasts up to 3 days. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months.

Is this Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe low-carb?

Yes! This recipe is low in carbohydrates while still being delicious and satisfying, making it great for those on keto or low-carb diets.

Final Thoughts

This crustless zucchini quiche recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for breakfast or dinner and allows room for customization based on your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate to try it out; you might discover your new go-to dish!