Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche Recipe

There are mornings when the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen is the perfect way to start the day. And then there are mornings when you crave something wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying without the fuss of a complicated recipe. That’s where this Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche truly shines. In my own kitchen, this recipe has become a weekend brunch staple. My family, even the notoriously picky eaters, devour it with gusto. The vibrant colors of the garden vegetables peeking through the creamy egg base are as visually appealing as they are delicious. What I love most is its versatility – you can use whatever vegetables are in season or readily available in your fridge. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies, and the absence of a crust makes it lighter and healthier, perfect for those watching their carb intake or simply wanting a more nutritious option. This crustless quiche is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and simple cooking, bringing a touch of garden goodness to your table any time of the year. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a healthy and satisfying dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients: Freshness from the Garden to Your Quiche

The beauty of this Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche lies in its adaptability and the celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The ingredient list is simple, focusing on quality and flavor, allowing the natural taste of the vegetables to truly shine. Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• Eggs: 6 large eggs are the foundation of our quiche, providing structure, richness, and protein. Opt for free-range or organic eggs whenever possible for superior flavor and ethical considerations. Eggs are not just binders; they are nutritional powerhouses packed with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. They contribute to the creamy texture and hold all the other ingredients together beautifully.
• Milk or Cream: 1 cup of milk or cream (or a combination) adds moisture and creaminess to the quiche. For a lighter version, use skim milk or unsweetened almond milk. For a richer, more decadent quiche, heavy cream or half-and-half will create a luxuriously smooth texture. Consider the desired richness and calorie count when choosing between milk and cream. A blend of milk and a touch of cream can strike a perfect balance.
• Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheese brings a savory depth and delightful meltiness to the quiche. The cheese choice is incredibly versatile – you can use cheddar, Gruyere, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend. For a sharper flavor, consider using a strong cheddar or Parmesan. For a milder, meltier texture, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are excellent choices. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and often has a better flavor due to the absence of cellulose and other anti-caking agents.
• Onion: 1 medium onion, diced, forms the aromatic base of the quiche. Yellow or white onions work well, providing a mild sweetness that complements the vegetables. Sautéing the onion before adding it to the quiche mellows its sharpness and enhances its flavor, creating a more harmonious blend with the other ingredients. Dice the onion into small, even pieces for consistent cooking and distribution throughout the quiche.
• Bell Peppers: 1 cup of diced bell peppers adds vibrant color, sweetness, and a satisfying crunch. Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers for visual appeal and a variety of flavors. Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a nutritional boost to the quiche. Remove the seeds and membranes before dicing the peppers into bite-sized pieces.
• Zucchini or Summer Squash: 1 cup of diced zucchini or summer squash contributes a mild, slightly sweet flavor and adds moisture to the quiche. These summer squashes are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. Choose firm zucchini or summer squash and dice them into cubes of similar size to the other vegetables for even cooking. No need to peel them unless the skin is particularly thick or tough.
• Broccoli or Cauliflower: 1 cup of broccoli or cauliflower florets, cooked until tender-crisp, adds a cruciferous vegetable element, bringing a slightly earthy flavor and wonderful texture. Broccoli and cauliflower are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Steaming, roasting, or microwaving the florets until tender-crisp before adding them to the quiche ensures they are cooked through and prevents them from being too crunchy in the final dish.
• Mushrooms: 1 cup of sliced mushrooms adds an earthy, umami flavor and a meaty texture. Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms all work well. Sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the quiche draws out their moisture and intensifies their flavor, preventing the quiche from becoming watery. Slice the mushrooms evenly for consistent cooking.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced, infuse the quiche with a pungent, savory aroma and flavor. Garlic is a flavor enhancer and also boasts numerous health benefits. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the quiche and doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional): 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, thyme, or basil add a bright, herbaceous note and elevate the overall flavor profile. Fresh herbs are best for their vibrant aroma and taste. Choose herbs that complement the vegetable combination you are using. Parsley and chives are classic choices, while thyme and basil add a Mediterranean touch.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Use kosher salt for its clean taste and freshly ground black pepper for its aromatic bite. Season generously, tasting as you go, to ensure the quiche is well-flavored.
• Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter for sautéing the vegetables. Olive oil adds a healthy fat and a subtle fruity flavor, while butter provides richness and a classic flavor. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions:

• Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. Asparagus, spinach, peas, corn, cherry tomatoes, and roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots would all be delicious additions.
• Cheese: Explore different cheese varieties to customize the flavor profile. Feta cheese adds a salty tang, goat cheese offers a creamy and slightly tart flavor, and pepper jack cheese brings a spicy kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for dairy milk. Nutritional yeast can be added for a cheesy flavor in dairy-free versions. Vegan cheese shreds can also be used, although they may not melt as smoothly as dairy cheese.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier quiche, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, ham, or vegetarian protein crumbles.

Instructions: Crafting Your Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche Step-by-Step

Creating this delightful Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring this garden-fresh dish to life:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating the oven is crucial for even cooking. A properly preheated oven ensures that the quiche cooks uniformly from all sides and sets beautifully.
• Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Greasing the dish prevents the quiche from sticking and makes it easier to remove after baking. A glass or ceramic pie dish works well.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sautéing the vegetables softens them, enhances their flavor, and removes excess moisture, preventing a soggy quiche.
• Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Sautéing the onion first builds a flavorful base for the quiche. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Add minced garlic, diced bell peppers, zucchini or summer squash, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly softened. Don’t overcook the vegetables at this stage; they will continue to cook in the oven. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• If using broccoli or cauliflower florets, add them to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking to warm them through. If the broccoli or cauliflower is raw, it’s best to lightly steam or microwave it until tender-crisp before adding it to the skillet.
• Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning at this stage allows the flavors to meld and develop. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside to cool slightly. Allowing the vegetables to cool slightly prevents them from cooking the eggs prematurely when combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

• In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, and shredded cheese until well combined. Whisking ensures that the eggs and dairy are fully incorporated, creating a smooth and homogenous mixture. Don’t over-whisk, as this can incorporate too much air and make the quiche puffy and less creamy.
• Season the egg mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the vegetables are already seasoned, so taste and adjust seasoning carefully.

Step 4: Assemble the Quiche

• Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly in the prepared pie dish. Distributing the vegetables evenly ensures that each slice of quiche contains a good balance of ingredients.
• Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Gently shake the pie dish to help the egg mixture settle and fill in any gaps between the vegetables.
• If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the quiche. Fresh herbs add a final flourish of flavor and visual appeal.

Step 5: Bake the Quiche

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden brown on top. The quiche is done when the center is just set and doesn’t jiggle excessively when the dish is gently shaken. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with perhaps a few moist crumbs attached.
• If the top of the quiche is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This prevents the top from burning while ensuring the inside is fully cooked.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool in the pie dish for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Cooling allows the quiche to set further and makes it easier to slice and serve without it falling apart.
• Serve warm or at room temperature. Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is delicious served both warm and at room temperature, making it perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Wholesome Choice

This Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is not only delicious but also a nutritious and wholesome meal option. Being crustless, it naturally reduces the carbohydrate content compared to traditional quiches, making it a lighter and potentially lower-carb choice. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information:

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings (depending on slice size)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-350 calories (This is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of cheese and dairy, and the amount of oil used for sautéing).

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approximate):

• Protein: High in protein from eggs and cheese, contributing to satiety and muscle building. Expect around 15-20 grams of protein per serving.
• Fat: Moderate in fat, depending on the type of dairy and cheese used. Healthy fats from eggs, cheese, and olive oil are included. Fat content can range from 15-25 grams per serving, with saturated fat content varying based on cheese and dairy choices.
• Carbohydrates: Low in carbohydrates, especially compared to traditional quiches with crusts. Carbohydrates primarily come from vegetables and dairy. Expect around 5-10 grams of net carbohydrates per serving.
• Fiber: Good source of fiber from the vegetables, promoting digestive health and satiety. Fiber content can range from 2-4 grams per serving, depending on the vegetable mix.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins and minerals from eggs and a variety of vegetables. Expect to find vitamins A, C, K, B vitamins, calcium, iron, and potassium, among others.

Important Note: These are estimated nutritional values. For precise nutritional information, especially if you are following a specific dietary plan, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe. Factors like the specific type of cheese, the fat content of the dairy, and the amount of oil used will significantly influence the calorie and fat content.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy from Prep to Plate

One of the many advantages of this Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is its relatively quick preparation time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (This includes chopping vegetables, sautéing them, and whisking the egg mixture.)
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-65 minutes

While the total time is around an hour, most of it is oven time, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while the quiche bakes. The hands-on preparation is minimal and straightforward. You can even save time by prepping the vegetables in advance – chop them the day before and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. This makes it even faster to assemble and bake the quiche. For an even quicker version, you can use pre-cut frozen vegetables, although fresh vegetables will always offer the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve: Versatile Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion

Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making it suitable for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Brunch or Breakfast:
  • Fresh Fruit Salad: Pair with a vibrant fruit salad for a light and refreshing brunch. The sweetness of the fruit complements the savory quiche beautifully.
  • Yogurt and Granola: Serve alongside a bowl of yogurt topped with granola for added protein and texture.
  • Toast or English Muffins: Offer toasted bread or English muffins on the side for those who enjoy a bit of carbohydrate with their meal.
  • Coffee or Tea: Classic brunch beverages like coffee, tea, or mimosas are perfect accompaniments.
• Lunch:
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an ideal pairing for a light and healthy lunch.
  • Soup: Serve alongside a cup of soup, such as tomato soup, vegetable soup, or a creamy soup like butternut squash soup, for a more substantial lunch.
  • Breadsticks or Crackers: Offer breadsticks or crackers for a bit of crunch and to soak up any leftover quiche.
• Dinner:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted potatoes, for a complete and satisfying dinner.
  • Side Salad: A more substantial salad, like a Caesar salad or a spinach salad with bacon, can be served alongside the quiche for a balanced dinner.
  • Garlic Bread: Garlic bread or crusty bread is a delicious accompaniment to mop up any flavorful juices from the quiche.
  • Wine Pairing: A light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the flavors of the vegetable quiche.
• Appetizer or Party Food:
  • Cut into Squares or Wedges: For a party, cut the quiche into smaller squares or wedges and serve as an appetizer or finger food.
  • Mini Quiches: Bake the quiche mixture in muffin tins to create individual mini crustless quiches, perfect for parties or meal prepping.
• Temperature:
  • Warm: Serve warm straight from the oven or slightly cooled.
  • Room Temperature: It is also delicious at room temperature, making it great for picnics or potlucks.
  • Cold: Leftovers can be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator.

Additional Tips for Quiche Perfection

To ensure your Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is a resounding success every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Vegetables: While you want a generous amount of vegetables, avoid overcrowding the pie dish. Too many vegetables can make the quiche watery and prevent the egg mixture from setting properly. Aim for a balanced ratio of vegetables to egg mixture. If you have a lot of vegetables, consider using a slightly larger or deeper dish, or baking two smaller quiches.
2. Sauté Vegetables Thoroughly: Sautéing the vegetables is a crucial step. It not only softens them and enhances their flavor but also removes excess moisture. Undercooked or watery vegetables can make the quiche soggy. Sauté until they are tender-crisp and slightly softened, but not mushy.
3. Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese plays a significant role in the flavor and texture of the quiche. Opt for good quality cheese that you enjoy the taste of. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese and often has a superior flavor. Experiment with different cheese varieties to find your favorite combination.
4. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can make the quiche dry and rubbery. Bake until the center is just set and no longer jiggly, but still slightly moist. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. The edges should be lightly golden brown.
5. Let it Rest Before Slicing: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the quiche to set further, making it easier to slice and preventing it from falling apart. It also allows the flavors to meld and develop even more.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered About Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche

Q1: Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For best results, allow it to cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, you can reheat it gently in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through, or enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It’s a great option for meal prepping or for preparing for brunch or gatherings ahead of time.

Q2: Can I freeze Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche?

A: Yes, you can freeze baked Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the baked quiche cool completely. Cut it into slices if desired, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe container, separating them with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the frozen quiche to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a low oven until warmed through. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit less creamy, but it’s still a convenient way to preserve leftovers.

Q3: What if I don’t have a pie dish? Can I use another type of baking dish?

A: Yes, you can definitely use other oven-safe baking dishes if you don’t have a pie dish. A 9-inch round cake pan, a square baking dish (8×8 or 9×9 inches), or even a cast iron skillet of a similar size will work well. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the shape and depth of the dish. Just ensure that the dish is oven-safe and that it can hold the volume of the quiche mixture. Adjust baking time as needed, checking for doneness as described in the instructions.

Q4: Can I add meat to this quiche?

A: Absolutely! While this recipe is for a garden vegetable quiche, you can easily add cooked meat to make it heartier. Cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, ham, or shredded chicken would all be delicious additions. Simply cook the meat separately, drain off any excess fat, and add it to the skillet along with the vegetables or sprinkle it over the vegetables in the pie dish before pouring in the egg mixture. Adjust seasoning as needed, especially if using salty meats like bacon or ham.

Q5: My quiche is watery. What did I do wrong?

A: A watery quiche can be caused by a few factors. First, ensure you sauté the vegetables thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding them to the quiche. Secondly, don’t overcrowd the pie dish with too many vegetables. Too many vegetables can release moisture during baking. Thirdly, make sure you are using the correct ratio of eggs to dairy. Too much dairy can result in a watery quiche. Finally, avoid adding vegetables that are naturally very high in water content without properly cooking them first (like raw tomatoes, unless well-drained). Following the recipe steps carefully, especially the sautéing step, and maintaining the ingredient ratios should help prevent a watery quiche.

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