Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche

Introduction

When I first tried making this Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche, I knew it was going to be a hit with my family. Not only is it gluten-free and dairy-free, which is a huge plus for those with dietary restrictions, but it also packs in a generous amount of fresh veggies. I was looking for a light, satisfying meal that didn’t compromise on flavor, and this quiche delivered on all fronts. The zucchini and spinach create a delicate base of vegetables, while the eggs and dairy-free milk provide a rich, creamy texture. The fresh basil adds an aromatic touch, and the slight sweetness from the tomatoes really balances everything out. It was a perfect dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. It’s simple, nutritious, and full of vibrant flavors—just what I love in a good, hearty dish!

Ingredients

For this Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche (Gluten-Free + Dairy-Free), you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp ghee or avocado oil (use avocado oil for dairy-free)
• 2 small zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1 1/4 cup small tomatoes, sliced thin
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, minced (plus extra for garnish)
• 8 eggs
• 1/4 cup dairy-free milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste

These ingredients combine to create a beautifully colorful and nutritious quiche, offering a variety of textures and flavors—from the savory vegetables to the rich, egg-based custard. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies while enjoying a comforting, wholesome meal.

Instructions

Making this quiche is a breeze, and the best part is that there’s no crust to deal with, making it much easier to prepare! Here’s how to make the Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche:

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch or 10-inch pie dish or quiche pan with ghee or avocado oil.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer and cook until they start to brown slightly on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Flip the zucchini slices as they cook. Once browned, remove them from the pan and set aside.
• Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil to the skillet.
• Add the chopped onions to the pan and cook until they become translucent and begin to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the baby spinach and cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat.

3. Assemble the Quiche:

• Spread the onion and spinach mixture evenly over the bottom of your prepared quiche pan.
• Layer the cooked zucchini rounds and tomato slices on top, reserving a small handful of zucchini and tomatoes for garnish later.
• Sprinkle the minced fresh basil evenly over the vegetables in the pan.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, dairy-free milk, salt, and fresh ground pepper until everything is well combined.
• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables in the quiche pan. Gently shake the pan to help settle the mixture into the vegetables.
• Arrange the reserved zucchini slices and tomato slices on top of the quiche for a decorative finish.

5. Bake:

• Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and firm to the touch.
• Let the quiche cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into wedges. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition Facts

This Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche yields 8 servings, and here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Serving Size: 1 wedge (1/8th of the quiche)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 230mg

These values are approximate and may vary based on the exact ingredients you use, but this quiche is generally a healthy, protein-packed option with good fats and plenty of veggies!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve

This quiche is versatile and can be served at any time of day. Here are some suggestions for serving it:

• Breakfast: Serve a wedge of quiche with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
• Lunch: Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a satisfying lunch.
• Dinner: Enjoy it as a main dish with a simple side of sautéed greens or roasted potatoes.
• Brunch: This quiche makes a wonderful addition to any brunch spread alongside other light bites such as fruit salads or gluten-free muffins.
• Picnic: Since this quiche is delicious warm or at room temperature, it’s perfect for taking to a picnic or gathering.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Herbs: While fresh basil is called for in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to add different flavors.
2. Add More Veggies: You can increase the vegetable content by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even broccoli to the quiche.
3. Make Ahead: This quiche can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
4. Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure if the quiche is cooked through, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, the quiche is ready.
5. For a Crispier Crust: While this recipe is crustless, you can still get a crisp, golden edge by using a quiche pan with a removable bottom, allowing for even cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer or tofu for a fully plant-based quiche. You can also use non-dairy cheese if you want a cheesy alternative.
• Meat Option: For those who prefer a meaty quiche, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the vegetable mixture before baking.
• Different Veggies: Experiment with different veggies like kale, broccoli, or roasted carrots for varied textures and flavors.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Pair this quiche with a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Avocado: A sliced avocado on the side or a scoop of guacamole can add a creamy, rich complement to the dish.
• Roasted Potatoes: Serve with roasted fingerling potatoes or sweet potato wedges for a hearty meal.
• Herbed Yogurt: A side of dairy-free yogurt with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon works wonderfully with this quiche.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: This quiche can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Freezing: If you want to make this quiche ahead of time, you can freeze it after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven before serving.
2. Can I use regular milk instead of dairy-free milk?
   Yes, if you’re not concerned about making it dairy-free, you can substitute regular milk for the dairy-free version.
3. What kind of pan should I use for this quiche?
   A 9-inch or 10-inch pie dish or quiche pan works best. Just make sure it’s greased properly to avoid sticking.
4. Can I freeze the quiche?
   Yes, it freezes well. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
5. **Can I add cheese to this quiche?**
   Yes, you can add dairy-free cheese or regular cheese for a cheesy version.
6. Can I add meat to the quiche?
   Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham if you prefer a non-vegetarian version.
7. How long does the quiche need to bake?
   It typically bakes for 35-40 minutes, but check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
8. Can I make this quiche in a muffin tin for individual servings?
   Yes, you can. Just reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for individual servings.
9. What can I serve with the quiche?
   A simple salad, roasted veggies, or even a slice of avocado can make a perfect complement to this quiche.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?
    Yes, this quiche is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

This Crustless Garden Vegetable Quiche (Gluten-Free + Dairy-Free) is an incredibly versatile, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, high in protein, and completely dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for many different diets. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare, this quiche checks all the boxes. It’s sure to be a hit with your family, and it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again!

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