Zucchini Quiche: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Any Meal

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a freshly baked quiche. The combination of eggs, cheese, and a flaky crust is a classic that never fails to satisfy. One of my favorite variations of this dish is zucchini quiche, which adds a healthy and flavorful twist to the traditional quiche recipe. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner.

I first made zucchini quiche during the summer, when my garden was overflowing with fresh zucchini. It was a delightful way to use up the extra produce, and the results were so delicious that it quickly became a family favorite. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or looking for a quick weekday meal, this zucchini quiche fits the bill.

The simplicity of the ingredients is what makes this recipe so appealing. Fresh zucchini, eggs, cheese, and a few herbs come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and light. It’s also a great way to get your family to enjoy more vegetables, as the zucchini adds a subtle flavor that blends perfectly with the creamy filling. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Zucchini Quiche

Brief Description

This zucchini quiche is a savory pie filled with fresh zucchini, eggs, cheese, and a blend of herbs. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, offering a delicious and nutritious option for any meal.

Ingredients List

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
• 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Substitutions

If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk. You can also switch up the cheese to suit your taste—feta or goat cheese are excellent choices for added flavor. If you’re looking to add some protein, cooked bacon or ham can be mixed in as well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a pre-made pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is slightly softened. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
3. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir in the cooked zucchini and onion mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the quiche: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
5. Bake the quiche: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil.
6. Cool and serve: Once the quiche is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This zucchini quiche is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. For breakfast or brunch, pair it with a fresh fruit salad and a hot cup of coffee. For lunch or dinner, serve it alongside a green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. It also makes a great addition to a picnic or potluck, as it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 10g

Storage and Reheating

Leftover zucchini quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This quiche also freezes well—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a homemade pie crust?

Absolutely! If you prefer making your own pie crust, it will add a delicious homemade touch to the quiche. Just be sure to blind bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Yes, zucchini quiche is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it the day before and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the quiche in the oven until warmed through.

Is this quiche gluten-free?

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can make the quiche crustless by simply omitting the pie crust. Grease the pie dish before adding the filling, and bake as directed. You can also use a gluten-free pie crust if you prefer a traditional quiche with a crust.

Conclusion

Zucchini quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, this savory quiche is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and creamy texture. It’s easy to make, adaptable to various dietary preferences, and can be prepared ahead of time for added convenience. We hope you enjoy this zucchini quiche as much as we do. Don’t forget to leave a comment below to share your experience and let us know how the recipe turned out for you!