Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

This Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked gouda and fresh zucchini. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this quiche is easy to prepare and offers a satisfying, low-carb option. The creamy custard filling and hints of herbs make it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting brunch or enjoying a cozy family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious quiche in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of smoked gouda cheese and fresh herbs creates a unique taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or cold; this quiche is perfect for any meal of the day.
• Low Carb Option: Ideal for those watching their carb intake while still wanting something hearty.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe, gather the right tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

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 combine all your ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Grater: This tool helps in quickly shredding zucchini, ensuring even distribution throughout the quiche.
• Whisk: Essential for beating eggs and mixing the custard mixture smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Quiche Filling

• 1 pound grated zucchini
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz smoked gouda cheese (or add 1/8 – 1/4 tsp liquid smoke)
• 2 tbsp snipped fresh chives
• 1/2 tsp dried dill
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 2 tsp soft butter

How to Make Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

• Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
• Squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a soggy quiche.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard

In a mixing bowl:
Whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined.
Stir in the smoked gouda cheese, chives, dill, salt, and white pepper.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gently fold in the prepared zucchini into the egg mixture until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake the Quiche

• Grease your pie dish with soft butter.
• Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared dish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50 minutes or until set and golden on top.

Step 6: Serve

Allow your quiche to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

This Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your quiche experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette complements the creamy texture of the quiche.

Serve with Toasted Bread

• Crisp, toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for soaking up any extra filling.

Accompany with Sliced Tomatoes

• Freshly sliced tomatoes offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the zucchini quiche.

Garnish with Herbs

• Top each slice with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.

How to Perfect Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

To ensure your Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Drain Excess Moisture: Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the grated zucchini. This prevents a soggy quiche.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality cheese like smoked gouda to enhance flavor.

• Check Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the quiche while it bakes. It should be golden on top and set in the center.

• Let it Rest: Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens dressed lightly will balance the richness of the quiche.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness to your table.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances both flavor and presentation.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs complements the quiche’s texture perfectly.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add a smoky dimension that pairs beautifully with the dish.
7. Savory Muffins: Warm savory muffins can be a nice addition for those who enjoy baked goods alongside their meals.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies can provide a lively contrast to the creamy quiche.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe successful, be aware of these common mistakes.

• Using watery zucchini – If your zucchini is too watery, it can make the quiche soggy. To avoid this, grate the zucchini and sprinkle it with salt, letting it sit for about 10 minutes before squeezing out excess moisture.
• Not preheating the oven – Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure a perfectly baked crustless quiche.
• Overmixing the egg mixture – Mixing too vigorously can incorporate too much air, leading to a spongy texture. Mix just until combined for a creamy custard consistency.
• Forgetting seasoning – A lack of seasoning results in bland flavor. Be sure to season your egg mixture well with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the taste.
• Skipping the butter greasing – Not greasing your baking dish can cause sticking. Use soft butter to coat the dish well before pouring in the quiche mixture.

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 slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, lid on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe?

A Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe is a savory dish made without pastry crust, featuring eggs, cream, zucchini, and cheese, offering a lighter alternative to traditional quiches.

Can I use other cheeses in my Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute smoked gouda with cheeses like cheddar or feta for different flavors and textures.

How do I customize my Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe?

You can add ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it convenient for busy days.

Final Thoughts

This Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it for breakfast or dinner and customize it to suit your tastes. Give it a try and impress your family with this delightful dish!