When it comes to making a delightful and healthy meal, a crustless broccoli quiche stands out for its simplicity and nutritious ingredients. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, offering a delicious way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef looking for an easy yet impressive recipe, these steps will guide you to creating a perfect crustless broccoli quiche with minimal effort.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a seamless cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk (whole or 2% for a creamier texture)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss works great)
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional for added flavor)
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing
🍳 Note: Prepping all ingredients beforehand is key in making the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Preheat and Prep the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the quiche cooks evenly from the start.
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or olive oil.
🌡 Note: Using a properly greased dish helps in easily removing the quiche once it's cooked and cooled.
3. Sauté the Broccoli and Onion
This step brings out the flavors of the vegetables:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.
- Add the broccoli florets, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant green. Season with salt and pepper.
🥦 Note: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli. It should retain a bit of crunch to balance the creamy egg mixture.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
The egg mixture is what holds your quiche together:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Add 3⁄4 of the cheese to the mixture, reserving the rest for the topping.
5. Assemble and Bake
Now, it’s time to put everything together:
- Layer the sautéed broccoli and onions into the greased pie dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
| Baking Guide | Time |
|---|---|
| Initial Baking Time | 30-35 minutes |
| Check for Doneness | Insert a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean. |
Once done, let the quiche sit for about 10 minutes to set before slicing. This resting period allows the quiche to firm up, making it easier to serve.
In crafting this crustless broccoli quiche, you've not only created a meal that's simple to prepare but also full of nutrients. The egg mixture provides protein, the cheese adds a touch of indulgence, while the broccoli and onion contribute to a well-rounded, healthy dish. By following these steps, you've transformed simple ingredients into an elegant meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The recipe's versatility allows for customization with other vegetables or additional herbs and spices, ensuring that you'll never tire of this delicious option.
Can I prepare the quiche in advance?
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Yes, you can assemble the quiche a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Bake it fresh or let it come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
How do I store leftover quiche?
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
What other vegetables can I use?
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You can experiment with spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just remember to sauté them before adding to the quiche.
