Recipe for Crustless Quiche Made with Vegetables
# Vegetable-Based Crustless Quiche Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Choice
Quiche is a timeless dish that has been relished for ages, hailing from the German area of Lorraine. Conventionally, it comes with a pastry crust brimming with eggs, cream, cheese, and various fillings. However, for those seeking a lighter, gluten-free, or low-carb option, a crustless quiche presents an enjoyable alternative. This article will provide you with an easy and healthy vegetable-based crustless quiche recipe, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
## Why Opt for a Crustless Quiche?
1. **Healthier Selection**: By omitting the crust, you cut down on additional calories and carbohydrates, which makes it a great option for individuals mindful of their weight or adhering to a low-carb diet.
2. **Quick and Straightforward**: Crustless quiche is easier to make. You skip the elaborate process of creating or rolling out pastry.
3. **Adaptable**: You have the freedom to personalize the filling with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and proteins, making it a perfect way to use up leftover ingredients.
4. **Gluten-Free**: A crustless quiche is inherently gluten-free, making it appropriate for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
## Ingredients
### For the Vegetable Filling:
– 1 cup of diced spinach (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup of chopped bell peppers (any variety)
– 1 cup of chopped mushrooms
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic
### For the Egg Mixture:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy options like almond or oat milk)
– 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, feta, or your preference)
– 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (like thyme, oregano, or basil)
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Instructions
### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a comparable baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, incorporate the bell peppers and mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften. If using fresh spinach, add it last and cook until it wilts. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
### Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, shredded cheese, dried herbs, salt, and pepper until thoroughly mixed.
### Step 4: Combine and Pour
Stir the sautéed vegetables into the egg mixture until well combined. Pour this mixture into the greased pie dish, ensuring the vegetables are evenly spread out.
### Step 5: Bake
Put the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is firm and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
### Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, take the quiche out of the oven and let it cool for around 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up a bit, making it simpler to cut. Serve it warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
## Serving Suggestions
Crustless quiche is highly versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways:
– Pair it with a fresh green salad for a light lunch or dinner.
– Serve it with whole-grain toast or a fruit platter for a substantial breakfast.
– Enjoy it as a snack or appetizer, cut into small squares.
## Storage
Leftover crustless quiche can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for as long as 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
## Conclusion
A vegetable-based crustless quiche is a tasty, nutritious, and flexible dish that can be savored at any time of day. With boundless options for customization, it’s a fantastic way to add more vegetables to your diet while pleasing your palate. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just seeking a quick meal, this recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!