This Zucchini and Cheddar Quiche is a light, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. Made with layers of tender zucchini, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy egg mixture, this quiche is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20-30 minute
Ingredients
- Zucchini: 2 lbs (900 g)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
- Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the Zucchini:
Thinly slice the zucchini using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Sprinkle salt over the zucchini slices, toss to coat, and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. After resting, place the zucchini in a cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. - Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, lightly beat the eggs with the milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in 1 cup (100 g) of shredded cheddar cheese. - Assemble the Quiche:
In a quiche pan, arrange half of the drained zucchini slices. Sprinkle 1/2 cup (50 g) of shredded cheddar cheese over the zucchini slices. Arrange a second layer of zucchini on top and pour the egg and milk mixture over the layers. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) of cheddar cheese on top. - Bake:
Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown. - Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm or cold.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Serve with fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
- Enjoy as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal spread.
Cooking Tips
- Thoroughly drain the zucchini to prevent a watery quiche.
- Use a high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Add other vegetables or herbs, like spinach or basil, for extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins A and C.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides protein, calcium, and healthy fats.
- Eggs: Excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes (ensure no gluten contamination in other ingredients)
- Dairy-Free: No (contains milk and cheese)
- Egg-Free: No (contains eggs)
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
- Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- You can freeze the quiche for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for any level of cook.
- Versatile: Suitable for any meal—breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
- Light and Flavorful: The combination of zucchini and cheddar creates a delicious and light quiche that’s packed with flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep and storing leftovers for later.
Conclusion
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Zucchini and Cheddar Quiche, a versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served warm or cold, this quiche is a satisfying and nutritious option that everyone will love. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, feta, or Swiss to change up the flavor. - Can I add a crust to this quiche?
Absolutely! You can use a store-bought or homemade pie crust. Simply place the crust in the quiche pan, add the zucchini and egg mixture, and bake as directed. - Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving. - How do I prevent the quiche from becoming watery?
Thoroughly drain the zucchini by salting and squeezing out excess moisture. This is key to avoiding a watery quiche. - Can I freeze the quiche?
Yes, allow the quiche to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. - What can I serve with this quiche?
It pairs well with a side salad, fresh fruit, or soup. It’s also great as part of a brunch spread. - Can I add other vegetables or proteins to this quiche?
Yes! Add diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for more flavor, or cooked bacon, ham, or chicken for protein. - Can I use dairy-free alternatives to make this quiche dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk and use dairy-free cheese. - How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The quiche is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. - How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.