Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish that brings a little taste of Italy right to my kitchen: the crustless caprese quiche salad! This delightful quiche is not only light and fluffy, but it’s also bursting with the fresh flavors of basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. I love making it for brunch with friends or serving it as a light lunch during those busy weekdays. It’s perfect for any occasion! I often whip it up for family gatherings, where everyone digs in and raves about how delicious it is—trust me, it’s always a hit! Plus, it’s so versatile; you can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it a fabulous option for picnics or potlucks. You’re going to love how easy it is to make, too!
Ingredients List
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil for greasing
How to Prepare the Crustless Caprese Quiche Salad Recipe
Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because a properly preheated oven helps your quiche rise beautifully and bake evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a 9-inch pie dish and grease it generously with olive oil. This little step is key to ensuring your quiche comes out without sticking. Trust me, no one wants a quiche that clings to the pan!
Mixing the Base Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the fun part! In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs and 1 cup of heavy cream until they’re well combined. You want to whisk them thoroughly to incorporate some air for that light, fluffy texture we’re aiming for. Don’t rush this part! Once it’s nice and smooth, add in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Make sure everything is well integrated so that every bite is flavorful.
Incorporating the Fresh Ingredients
Next up, we’re going to fold in those fresh ingredients. Gently add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and chopped basil to your egg mixture. Now, here’s where you need to be a bit delicate—use a spatula to fold them in without overmixing. You want to keep that airiness in the batter, so just gently incorporate them until they’re evenly distributed. It’s all about preserving that light texture!
Baking to Perfection
Pour the mixture into your prepared pie dish and pop it into the oven! Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top. You’ll know it’s done when it doesn’t jiggle much in the center. Once it’s out, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps the quiche firm up a bit, making it easier to cut. And there you have it—your delicious crustless caprese quiche salad is ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
To make sure your crustless caprese quiche salad turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that I swear by! First, be careful not to overmix the batter when incorporating the fresh ingredients. You want to keep that light and airy texture, so just fold gently until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense quiche, and nobody wants that!
Another thing to keep in mind is baking time. It’s easy to think a few extra minutes won’t hurt, but underbaking can leave you with a quiche that’s too soggy in the middle. Aim for that golden top and a firm center! If you’re unsure, you can always do the “toothpick test”—insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients! While the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a knockout, you could swap in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers can also give it a fresh crunch. Remember, the more you play with the flavors, the more personalized your quiche will become!
Lastly, if you’re planning to serve this for a special occasion, consider garnishing it with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction just before serving. It adds a lovely touch and elevates the presentation. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for each slice of this delicious crustless caprese quiche salad. Keep in mind that these values are approximations based on typical ingredient usage, so they may vary slightly depending on the specific products you choose.
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 10g
This quiche is not only a delightful addition to your meal but also provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Enjoy it guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to something nutritious!
Variations of the Crustless Caprese Quiche Salad Recipe
One of the best things about this crustless caprese quiche salad is how adaptable it is! You can easily put your spin on it with different cheeses, vegetables, or herbs, and trust me, it’s a fun way to keep things exciting in the kitchen.
For a start, let’s talk about cheese. While the classic fresh mozzarella is divine, you can swap it out for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that’ll add a whole new dimension of flavor. If you’re a fan of sharper cheese, try adding some grated Parmesan for that salty umami kick. Just imagine how lovely it’ll taste!
Now, let’s not forget about the veggies! The cherry tomatoes can be replaced with roasted bell peppers for a sweet, smoky flavor, or you can throw in some sautéed spinach for that vibrant green color and extra nutrients. Zucchini or mushrooms also make fantastic additions—just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture, which helps keep your quiche from getting soggy.
Herbs are another easy way to personalize your quiche. Basil is a classic, but have you ever tried fresh thyme or oregano? They’ll add a delightful aromatic quality. You could even toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Finally, consider the presentation! You can layer sliced tomatoes on top before baking for a stunning visual effect, or sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs over the finished quiche for that restaurant-quality look. Whatever variations you choose, remember that the goal is to make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your crustless caprese quiche salad, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing it with a light, fresh green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. The crisp greens and zesty dressing complement the rich, creamy quiche beautifully and add a refreshing crunch to the meal. You could throw in some sliced cucumbers, radishes, or even a handful of arugula for that extra peppery bite!
If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, crusty bread is always a fantastic choice. A warm, rustic baguette or a slice of homemade focaccia can be the perfect accompaniment for soaking up any delicious flavors from the quiche. Just imagine tearing off a piece of bread and taking a bite of quiche—heavenly!
For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving it alongside some antipasto. Think marinated olives, roasted red peppers, or a selection of Italian cheeses. It turns your meal into a delightful spread that everyone can enjoy! And don’t forget a nice glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon—perfect for balancing the flavors and enhancing the whole dining experience. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ Section
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but just in case!), store the slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to keep the texture intact.
Can I reheat the quiche?
Absolutely! To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, the edges will regain some of that lovely texture.
Can I use different vegetables or cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to mix it up! You can use any veggies you like, such as spinach, bell peppers, or even sautéed mushrooms. For cheeses, feta, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar can work great and add a unique flavor profile.
Is this quiche suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It should keep for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Definitely! This crustless caprese quiche salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing it to maintain its texture.
Crustless Caprese Quiche Salad Recipe: 5 Steps to Success
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful crustless caprese quiche salad that combines the flavors of fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a light and fluffy quiche.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream until well combined.
- Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the egg mixture.
- Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be served as a brunch, lunch, or light dinner option.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for variation.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: crustless caprese quiche salad recipe
