My mom’s homemade zucchini quiche recipe was always the highlight of summer gatherings at our house. I can still remember the aroma of fresh zucchini, onions, and herbs wafting through the kitchen as the quiche baked to golden perfection in the oven. It was a dish that never failed to bring the family together, with everyone eagerly anticipating that first delicious bite.

Growing up, I loved watching my mom expertly layer the thinly sliced zucchini into the flaky pie crust, then pour the rich custard mixture over the top. She had a special touch that made her zucchini quiche recipe simply irresistible. And no matter how full we were, there was always room for a second slice (or third!).

Even now, as an adult, that zucchini quiche recipe still holds a special place in my heart. Whenever I make it, it transports me back to those warm summer evenings, surrounded by loved ones and making lasting memories over a shared love of good food. It’s a recipe that has become a true comfort food for me, and I’m excited to share it with you today.

Why This Zucchini Quiche Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

This zucchini quiche recipe is truly a hidden gem. While quiche may seem like a fancy or intimidating dish, this version is surprisingly easy to make and packed with flavor. The secret lies in the perfect balance of creamy custard, flaky crust, and tender zucchini slices.

The Secret Behind Perfect zucchini quiche recipe

What sets this zucchini quiche recipe apart is the way the zucchini is prepared. Rather than grating or chopping the zucchini, we thinly slice it and arrange the slices in an overlapping pattern in the pie crust. This not only creates a beautiful presentation, but it also ensures that the zucchini cooks through perfectly, with a tender yet slightly firm texture that complements the rich custard filling.

Additionally, the use of a pre-baked pie crust ensures a crisp, flaky base that can stand up to the moisture of the filling. And by seasoning the custard with a blend of herbs, spices, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, we infuse the entire quiche with a depth of flavor that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

– Zucchini: The star of the show! You’ll need about 2-3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into rounds.
– Eggs: The foundation of the creamy custard filling.
– Milk: Whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream works best for a rich, velvety texture.
– Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a savory, umami note to the filling.
– Herbs: Fresh or dried basil, thyme, and oregano lend aromatic flavor.
– Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
– Salt and pepper: To season the filling and bring out the other flavors.
– Pie crust: Use a store-bought or homemade pre-baked pie crust for the perfect foundation.

Step-by-Step zucchini quiche recipe Instructions

Preparing Your zucchini quiche recipe

This zucchini quiche recipe is relatively straightforward to prepare, with a total active time of about 30 minutes and a baking time of 40-45 minutes. You’ll need a 9-inch pie plate or tart pan, a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for slicing the zucchini, and a mixing bowl for the custard filling.

1- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and ensure you have a pre-baked 9-inch pie crust ready to go.
2- Wash and slice the zucchinis into thin, even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Arrange the zucchini slices in an overlapping pattern in the pre-baked pie crust, starting from the outside and working your way in.
3- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped herbs (basil, thyme, oregano). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4- Carefully pour the custard mixture over the arranged zucchini slices, making sure to evenly distribute it across the entire pie.
5- Bake the zucchini quiche for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
6- Allow the quiche to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your perfectly baked zucchini quiche recipe!

Pro Tips for Success

– Use a mandoline slicer or very sharp knife to ensure the zucchini slices are uniform in thickness, which will help them cook evenly.
– Blot the zucchini slices with paper towels before arranging them in the pie crust to remove any excess moisture.
– Don’t overfill the pie crust – leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during baking.
– Check the quiche a few minutes before the recommended baking time and cover the edges with foil if the crust is browning too quickly.
– Let the quiche rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.

Serving and Storing Your zucchini quiche recipe

Perfect Pairings for zucchini quiche recipe

This zucchini quiche recipe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. For a light, summery meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad and a glass of crisp white wine. It also makes a wonderful brunch centerpiece, complemented by a fruit salad and a mimosa or bloody mary.

If you’re looking for a heartier dinner option, the zucchini quiche pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes or a simple side of steamed vegetables. And don’t forget the importance of a good crusty bread or flaky biscuits to soak up any leftover custard.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover zucchini quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place a slice on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the entire quiche in advance and freeze it unbaked. Wrap the unbaked quiche tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply remove the quiche from the freezer, discard the foil, and bake it straight from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for zucchini quiche recipe

Creative zucchini quiche recipe Variations

While this classic zucchini quiche recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding diced ham, crumbled bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier, more savory version. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as cheddar, goat cheese, or feta.

For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating other summer vegetables like roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or cherry tomatoes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the zucchini for thinly sliced yellow squash or a mix of both.

Making zucchini quiche recipe Diet-Friendly

To make this zucchini quiche recipe gluten-free, simply use a pre-made gluten-free pie crust or make your own using a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can replace the milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives, such as unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free cheese or tofu.

If you’re watching your carb intake, you can create a crustless zucchini quiche by baking the custard filling directly in a greased pie plate or tart pan. This low-carb version is just as delicious and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen zucchini in this recipe?
A: While fresh zucchini is preferred for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini slices in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before arranging in the pie crust.

Q: How do I know when the zucchini quiche is fully baked?
A: The quiche is ready when the center is set and the top is golden brown. You can also use a toothpick or knife to test the center – it should come out clean when the quiche is fully cooked.

Q: Can I make this zucchini quiche recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the entire quiche in advance and bake it later. Simply assemble the quiche, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge.

Q: How many servings does this zucchini quiche recipe make?
A: This zucchini quiche recipe, baked in a 9-inch pie plate, will typically yield 6-8 servings, depending on how large you slice the pieces.

Q: My quiche is browning too quickly on the top. What can I do?
A: If the top of your zucchini quiche is browning too quickly before the center is set, you can loosely cover the top with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while the filling continues to bake.

Conclusion

This zucchini quiche recipe is a true summertime gem that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its perfectly balanced flavors, tender zucchini, and flaky crust, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re serving it for a casual brunch, a summer picnic, or a special occasion, I guarantee this zucchini quiche will be a hit.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try – I know you’ll love it as much as I do. And don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos with me in the comments below. Enjoy!