Cheesy Zucchini Quiche for a Comforting Meal

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a quiche, and when you infuse it with the seasonal freshness of zucchini and rich, melty cheese, it transforms into a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for brunch, a light dinner, or even a cozy lunch, this cheesy zucchini quiche is a versatile option that appeals to all palates.

Zucchini is not just a summer vegetable; it’s a culinary canvas ready to soak up flavors and textures. Combined with a creamy custard and enveloped in a flaky crust, this quiche brings together the best of garden produce and dairy. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s an inviting dish that shines in any gathering.

As you delve into this recipe, you’ll discover that creating this cheesy delight is simpler than you might think. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make a dish that will warm your heart and home.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked pie crust (9-inch)
• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. This helps prevent a soggy quiche.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
4. Stir in the squeezed zucchini, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and chopped parsley until evenly mixed.
5. Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges as desired.
6. Pour the zucchini mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of cheese works best for this quiche?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices for their melting qualities. You can also experiment with Gruyère or feta for different flavors.

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

While fresh zucchini is recommended, if using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained of excess water before incorporating.

What if my quiche is too watery after baking?

Ensure you squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible before mixing it into the batter, and bake until the filling is set.

How can I incorporate more flavor into the quiche?

Adding herbs like thyme or dill, or including cooked onions or garlic can enhance the flavor profile significantly.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use a whole wheat crust, a gluten-free crust, or even a crustless version by greasing the pie dish.

What if I want to make a vegetarian version?

This quiche is already vegetarian, but you can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more variety.

How do I know when the quiche is done?

The quiche should be set in the center and lightly browned on top. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Conclusion

This cheesy zucchini quiche is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Its versatility allows for seasonal adaptations, making it a staple for any time of year.

Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. So, gather your ingredients and indulge in the simple pleasure of homemade quiche.

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.