There’s a certain joy that comes with transforming simple ingredients into something truly delightful, and this Crustless Zucchini Quiche embodies that magic. As summer’s bounty of zucchini comes into play, I find myself drawn to this light and creamy quiche that celebrates fresh flavors while being incredibly easy to whip up. Imagine slicing into a golden dish, the rich aroma of melting cheese and tender zucchini filling the air, perfect for brunch or a quick dinner!
With its high-protein goodness and versatility—adaptable for vegetarians or even gluten-free eaters—this quiche checks all the boxes for a comforting meal. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or cold for lunch the next day, it’s a dish that pleases crowds while also offering a fragrant hug on busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Crustless Zucchini Quiche so special?
Simplicity, this recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
High-protein goodness is delivered through the wholesome eggs and cheese, satisfying even the heartiest appetites.
Versatility shines as you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses, tailoring it to your taste preferences.
Budget-friendly and nutritious, it utilizes seasonal zucchinis to create a dish that’s easy on your wallet and your waistline.
Meal prep made easy — this quiche can be prepared in advance, perfect for those who love having quick meals ready to go, such as reaping the benefits of this make-ahead tip.
Crustless Zucchini Quiche Ingredients
For the Base
- Shredded Zucchini – Adds moisture and flavor, but ensure it’s well-squeezed to remove excess water for a firm quiche.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binder, providing structure and a rich, creamy texture to your quiche.
- Spelt or Whole Wheat Flour – Enhances structure; can be swapped with gluten-free flour to make it a gluten-free quiche.
For the Cheesy Filling
- Hard Cheese (e.g., Cheddar) – Contributes flavor and richness; feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese variety.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a tangy flavor and enhances overall taste; optional for a lighter dish.
For Flavor Enhancers
- Chives or Green Onions – Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor; can be replaced with shallots or simply omitted if desired.
- Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste for your ideal seasoning.
- Ground Black Pepper – Delivers warmth and depth; use freshly ground for the best flavor.
For Baking
- Cooking Spray – Prevents the quiche from sticking; you can use parchment paper for easy removal instead.
Enjoy cooking this Crustless Zucchini Quiche that’s not just delicious but also bursts with healthy goodness!
How to Make Crustless Zucchini Quiche
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Prepare Zucchini: Shred your zucchini using a grater, then take a clean linen towel or ricer and squeeze out the excess moisture until the zucchini feels dry. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy quiche!
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While you wait, prepare a 9-inch pie dish by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy release later.
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Whisk Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until they are fluffy. Gradually add in the spelt or whole wheat flour, combining well. Stir in the cheeses, salt, and pepper until nicely blended.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the squeezed zucchini and chopped chives or green onions into the egg mixture. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for that delicious, fresh bite in every slice!
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Bake: Pour your mixture into the prepared pie dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. For a lovely golden top, broil for a few extra minutes at the end.
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Cool & Serve: Once baked, let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes. Slice it into 8 pieces and serve either warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Optional: Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crustless Zucchini Quiche?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides that enhance its fresh flavors and textures.
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Simple Green Salad: A mix of crisp greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, perfectly balancing the creaminess of the quiche.
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Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: The sweet-tartness of roasted tomatoes melds beautifully with the savory quiche, creating a delightful contrast that excites your taste buds.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on whole grain toast provides a satisfying contrast; sprinkle with salt and chili flakes for an extra kick!
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Garlic Herb Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with garlic and herbs bring a hearty element to your plate, making meals feel wholesome and comforting.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet and juicy brightness that complements the savory notes of the quiche; it’s a wonderful palate cleanser!
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Chilled Cucumber Soup: A light, cooling soup refreshes your palate, perfectly offsetting the richness of the quiche for a delightful all-day brunch spread.
Crustless Zucchini Quiche Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions to make the recipe truly yours!
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Spinach Swap: Replace zucchini with roughly chopped spinach for a vibrant green quiche packed with nutrients. Spinach adds a delightful earthiness that pairs beautifully with cheese.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill to enhance the flavor profile. A handful of fresh herbs can elevate your quiche from simple to extraordinary!
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. These cheeses bring creaminess and a burst of flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
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Mushroom Add-in: Sauté sliced mushrooms and mix them into the filling for a rich, earthy flavor. This addition enriches the dish, giving it a heartier quality while still being light.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out spelt flour with almond or coconut flour to craft a delightful gluten-free version. This makes it accessible for those who avoid gluten while maintaining deliciousness.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of heat. This spicy twist will wake up your taste buds and give each bite an exciting zing!
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Roasted Veggies: Mix in other roasted vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant for added texture and flavor. Roasting enhances natural sweetness, making each slice even more satisfying.
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Nutty Crunch: Top your quiche with a sprinkle of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Expert Tips for Crustless Zucchini Quiche
- Moisture Matters: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. This prevents a soggy quiche that won’t hold its shape.
- Eggs are Key: Use fresh eggs for the best texture and richness. Stale eggs can lead to a less flavorful quiche.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different hard cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for unique flavor profiles, but ensure you balance the saltiness appropriately.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your quiche as it bakes; oven temperatures can vary. Use a toothpick test to check for doneness.
- Storage Sensibility: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creaminess of your Crustless Zucchini Quiche.
Storage Tips for Crustless Zucchini Quiche
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature for up to 2 hours for optimal freshness; ideal for serving straight from the oven to the table.
Fridge: Keep leftover Crustless Zucchini Quiche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven or microwave.
Reheating: When reheating, avoid high temperatures to prevent drying out. Cover the quiche with a damp paper towel for added moisture in the microwave.
Make Ahead Options
This Crustless Zucchini Quiche is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness even on your busiest days! You can prepare the quiche mixture, excluding the cooked eggs, up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can shred the zucchini up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to keep it stored separately to maintain its freshness and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix the prep ingredients and pour them into the prepared dish. Bake as directed, and you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready with minimal effort, just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
Crustless Zucchini Quiche Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best zucchini for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for firm cucumbers with smooth skin, ideally medium-sized. Avoid those with dark spots all over or soft patches, as they may be overripe and watery. Fresh zucchini should feel heavy for its size, providing the best moisture and flavor for your quiche!
How should I store leftover Crustless Zucchini Quiche?
You can store your leftover Crustless Zucchini Quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in the microwave on a low setting to maintain its delicious creaminess!
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Can I freeze Crustless Zucchini Quiche?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, slice the quiche into individual portions, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or the oven until heated through, keeping the temperature low to avoid drying out.
What should I do if my quiche turns out soggy?
Very often, a soggy quiche is due to too much moisture from zucchini. To prevent this, squeeze out all excess water from the shredded zucchini before mixing. If you find your quiche is still not holding up, you can try adding a little more flour as a binding agent in the future, or consider baking it longer to help set the texture.
Can pets eat Crustless Zucchini Quiche?
It’s best to avoid feeding your pets this quiche. While zucchini is safe for dogs and cats in small amounts, the other ingredients—especially cheese and eggs—can be rich for their digestive systems. If you’d like to share, consider simply offering them plain, cooked zucchini instead!
Is there a gluten-free option for Crustless Zucchini Quiche?
Absolutely! You can easily make this quiche gluten-free by substituting the spelt or whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any allergens if you’re serving to someone with dietary restrictions. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish!
Delicious Crustless Zucchini Quiche for Easy Meal Prep
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Prepare Zucchini: Shred your zucchini using a grater, then squeeze out excess moisture until dry.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or parchment.
- Whisk Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, then add flour, cheeses, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold in squeezed zucchini and chopped chives until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour mixture into pie dish and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool for about 10 minutes, slice into 8 pieces, and serve warm or cold.