Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche
Highlighted under: Healthy Lifestyle Dishes
I love whipping up a Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche for a nutritious breakfast or a light lunch. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy feta is enchanting, and I appreciate how easy it is to prepare. Plus, there's no crust to fuss over, making it lighter and perfect for those watching their carbs. In just 30 minutes, I can have a delicious and wholesome dish on the table that everyone enjoys. This recipe has quickly become a staple in my home, and I hope it finds a place in yours, too!
When I first made this Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche, I wasn't sure how it would turn out without the traditional crust. To my delight, it was just as satisfying with a fluffy texture and robust flavors. The key is to ensure that the spinach is well-drained before mixing it with the eggs and feta, which keeps the quiche from becoming soggy. I served it with a side salad, making for a refreshing meal.
This recipe allows for so much creativity! The beauty of this quiche is that you can easily swap in whatever veggies or cheeses you have on hand. I experimented with adding sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese, and it was heavenly. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, give this a try!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare and perfect for busy mornings
- Rich flavors from fresh spinach and tangy feta
- No crust means lower carbs and easier cleanup
Making the Most of Spinach
When selecting spinach for your quiche, opt for fresh, vibrant leaves. Avoid any that appear wilted or discolored. Fresh spinach not only adds a delightful earthiness; its vibrant green color also enhances the dish's presentation. If you're short on fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it's thawed, well-drained, and squeezed dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the quiche's texture.
Sautéing the spinach briefly before adding it to the egg mixture helps to release excess moisture and intensifies its flavor. Look for that rich green hue and soften texture after about 2-3 minutes on medium heat. It also ensures that when baked, the spinach integrates well, giving each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.
Feta Cheese - The Flavor Booster
Feta cheese is crucial for adding a tangy and creamy depth to the quiche. Its crumbly texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth egg custard. Opt for Bulgarian or Greek feta, as both have distinct flavors that work well in this dish. If you prefer a milder taste, look for a less aged feta; it will melt better too.
Should you want to introduce different flavors, consider mixing in some crumbled goat cheese or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a nutty twist. Just keep in mind that adjusting the cheese varieties can change the overall flavor profile, so choose ones that complement the spinach rather than overpower it.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once you've enjoyed the fresh out-of-the-oven quiche, leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place slices in a microwave-safe dish, covering them with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30-45 seconds, or until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat the quiche in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it retains its delightful texture.
This crustless quiche is versatile enough to be served at various meals. Consider pairing it with a light salad for lunch or serving it with crusty bread for brunch. I also love incorporating seasonal vegetables or herbs—like sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs—to switch up the flavors. Experimenting with different combinations can keep this dish fresh and exciting!
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients below to make your Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche:
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 200g feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Olive oil spray (for greasing the baking dish)
Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Here’s how to make this delicious Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil.
Prepare the Spinach
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add crumbled feta, sautéed spinach, grated cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Bake the Quiche
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
Cool and Serve
Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your homemade Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs like dill or basil. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and enjoyed cold or reheated.
Techniques for Perfect Cooking
To achieve a perfectly set quiche, it’s essential to monitor the baking time closely. After about 15 minutes, check for signs of doneness with a toothpick or knife; it should come out clean from the center. If it appears undercooked in the middle, give it an additional 5 minutes, checking periodically until the quiche is set and has a light golden hue on top.
If you find that the quiche is browning too quickly on top, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking. This simple trick allows it to complete cooking without risking an overly dark crust while ensuring the interior remains soft and inviting.
Variations to Explore
If you're in the mood for variety, why not experiment with different vegetables? Zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add unique flavors and textures. Just be sure to sauté any additional vegetables to remove excess moisture and enhance their flavors before mixing them into the egg mixture.
For a protein boost, diced cooked chicken or crumbled sausage can add heartiness to the dish. Just remember to adjust the seasonings accordingly since these ingredients can introduce additional flavor. Feel free to get creative—this quiche is a delicious canvas inviting your personal touch!
Dietary Adaptations
For those watching their calorie intake or following a lower-fat diet, consider replacing whole milk with almond or cashew milk. This not only modifies the flavor slightly but also makes it a more accommodating option for dairy-free diets. Ensure to choose unsweetened varieties to maintain the quiche's savory taste.
If you want to take it a step further, using egg substitutes can work too. Products like chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) can be a great alternative. Just keep in mind that using substitutes may affect the texture, so adjustments might be necessary.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this quiche is naturally gluten-free since it doesn't use any flour.
Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche
I love whipping up a Crustless Spinach Feta Quiche for a nutritious breakfast or a light lunch. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy feta is enchanting, and I appreciate how easy it is to prepare. Plus, there's no crust to fuss over, making it lighter and perfect for those watching their carbs. In just 30 minutes, I can have a delicious and wholesome dish on the table that everyone enjoys. This recipe has quickly become a staple in my home, and I hope it finds a place in yours, too!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 200g feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Olive oil spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add crumbled feta, sautéed spinach, grated cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs like dill or basil. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and enjoyed cold or reheated.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g