Imagine a dish that’s not only delightful to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. This Crustless Zucchini Tomato Quiche is a light, cheesy creation that embodies the essence of savory summer delights. Free from the confines of a carb-laden crust, this quiche serves up a medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese. Perfect for a variety of occasions such as brunch, lunch, or even a ready-to-go meal prep choice, it ensures you’re treated to a blend of flavors that excite the taste buds without weighing you down.
As you dive into this scrumptious quiche, the flavors of zucchini intertwine with the juicy tang of ripe tomatoes, creating a fresh burst of taste with every bite. The richness of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses offers a creamy texture and profound depth to the dish. Enhanced with the aromatic presence of oregano or Italian seasoning, and peppered with vibrant basil leaves, this quiche promises a well-rounded and nutritious experience.
Why You’ll Love This Crustless Zucchini Tomato Quiche
There are numerous reasons to fall in love with this delightful dish:
- Low-Carb Content: No crust means fewer carbs without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: Serve it for brunch, lunch, or as a side for dinner.
- Nutritious: Loaded with veggies and enriched with protein, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal planning and reheats beautifully.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Getting your kitchen ready is a key step to ensuring success with this quiche. Begin by organizing your workspace and gathering all necessary tools. A 9-inch pie dish is essential for shaping the quiche. Have a reliable set of measuring cups, a sharp knife, and a sauté pan on hand for chopping and cooking your vegetables. You’ll also need a whisk to blend the eggs and milk smoothly.
It’s important to preheat your oven to ensure even cooking throughout. A sturdy baking sheet beneath your pie dish can help distribute heat more uniformly, reducing the risk of overcooking the edges. Greasing your pie dish will not only prevent sticking but also aid in achieving that golden finish atop the quiche. With these steps and tools, you’re set to create a quiche worth savoring.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
To kick things off, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). While this is taking place, go ahead and grease your 9-inch pie dish to ensure a seamless release of the quiche post-bake.
Step 2: Cook the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for around 3 minutes, allowing it to soften and release its natural sweetness. Introduce the sliced zucchini and continue sautéing for an additional 5 minutes, lightly seasoning as you go. This step imparts a depth of flavor essential for the quiche.
Step 3: Whisk Your Eggs
In a separate mixing bowl, break the eggs and whisk them gently with the milk. Sprinkle in the oregano or Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Introduce both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the mixture melds together smoothly.
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
Arrange the cooked zucchini and onion blend evenly across the base of the greased pie dish. Place the fresh tomato slices on top, evenly spaced. Pour the egg mixture over everything, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Position the pie dish in the oven and allow it to bake for approximately 35-40 minutes. Look for a set consistency with a lightly golden top. Upon reaching perfection, remove the quiche and let it cool for around 5 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a touch of fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh aroma. Slice the quiche and savor it while warm or at room temperature.
Variations
- Protein: Enhance with cooked bacon bits or diced ham for added texture and flavor.
- Vegetables: Swap zucchini with spinach or bell peppers for different nutritional benefits.
- Spices: Experiment with thyme or cayenne pepper for a new layer of taste.
Cooking Notes
- Using fresh summer vegetables will maximize flavor; however, frozen can be used if fresh isn’t available – just ensure they are thawed and drained first.
- Allow the quiche to set for a few minutes before slicing to enable cleaner cuts and maintain its structure.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a mixed green salad for a refreshing counterbalance.
- Serve alongside a warm crusty bread to accompany each cheesy bite.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, incorporate goat cheese or feta into the egg mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and make for an excellent quick lunch option.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 210mg
FAQs
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the quiche in advance. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it securely, and refrigerate. It reheats easily in the oven or microwave.
What other cheeses can I use?
Creamy, meltable cheeses such as Gruyère or cheddar can substitute for mozzarella. The Parmesan’s nutty flavor adds depth, but can also be swapped with Pecorino Romano.
How can I make it gluten-free?
As this recipe is naturally free of flour or crust, it’s inherently gluten-free. Always verify that packaged ingredients, like cheese, are handled in facilities that avoid gluten, to prevent cross-contamination.
Why is my quiche watery?
Ensure all moisture is cooked off from the vegetables before adding them to the dish, and fresh tomatoes should be used instead of canned to prevent excess liquid.
Conclusion
Transforming a handful of wholesome ingredients into a fabulous Crustless Zucchini Tomato Quiche is a culinary delight. This dish is not only a testament to the deliciousness of simple ingredients but also a wonderful opportunity to experiment with flavors. We would love to hear your feedback, variations, or suggestions. Share your creations with friends and family, and bask in the appreciation of being the culinary virtuoso at your next meal gathering!
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Crustless Zucchini Tomato Quiche
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crustless Zucchini Tomato Quiche is a light, cheesy creation that embodies the essence of savory summer delights.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- Heat olive oil in a pan. Cook onion for 3 minutes, add zucchini and sauté for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Add seasoning, cheeses, and mix well.
- Arrange zucchini and onion in dish. Place tomato slices on top. Pour egg mixture over.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set and golden. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with basil, serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and make for an excellent quick lunch option. Ensure all moisture is cooked off from the vegetables before adding them to the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Brunch
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Protein: 12 g