Crustless Sausage and Spinach Quiche Recipe

Creating a crustless sausage and spinach quiche is a delightful and straightforward process. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a gluten-free option or simply want to reduce their intake of carbohydrates. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 pound sausage (your choice of chicken, turkey, or pork), casing removed
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter option
• 1 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional additions: mushrooms, red pepper, broccoli, etc.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s no longer pink.
   • Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted. You might need to add the spinach in batches.
   • Once cooked, spread the sausage and spinach mixture evenly in the prepared pie dish.
3. Mix the Eggs and Dairy:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Pour this mixture over the sausage and spinach in the pie dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. Bake the Quiche:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and the top is lightly golden.
   • Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Serving:
   • Serve warm. This quiche can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of mixed greens for a complete meal.

This crustless quiche is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Enjoy making and indulging in this delicious and nutritious meal!

Additional Tips and Variations:

• Customize Your Fillings: The beauty of quiche is its versatility. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes. If you’re adding vegetables with a high water content, sauté them first to remove some of the moisture.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese for new flavors. Feta cheese can add a tangy kick, while Swiss or Gruyère cheese will give the quiche a more sophisticated taste.
• Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or even a plant-based milk alternative. Using egg whites in place of some of the whole eggs can also reduce the fat content.
• Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to add herbs and spices to tailor the dish to your taste. A pinch of nutmeg can complement the creamy texture, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a bit of heat.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This quiche can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for a brunch. Simply reheat slices in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
• Freezing Instructions: If you want to freeze the quiche, let it cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
• Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, a crustless quiche can be part of a larger breakfast or brunch spread. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Nutrition Note:

This crustless sausage and spinach quiche is a great source of protein, thanks to the eggs and sausage. Spinach adds vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any meal. By skipping the crust, you’re not only cutting down on carbs but also making this dish gluten-free, accommodating those with specific dietary needs.

Remember, the key to a great quiche is balance. Balance the richness of the eggs and cream with the freshness of the vegetables, and you’ll have a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy experimenting with this flexible dish, and make it a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Enjoying Your Quiche Throughout the Week:

Quiche is not just for breakfast or brunch; it can be a satisfying meal any time of day. Here are some ideas for incorporating your crustless sausage and spinach quiche into various meals:

• Breakfast on the Go: Slice your quiche into portions and refrigerate. In the morning, simply reheat a slice for a quick, nutritious start to your day. Pair it with a piece of fruit or a cup of yogurt for a balanced meal.
• Lunch Box Idea: Quiche is delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it a fantastic option for packed lunches. Add a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette and some whole-grain bread for a fulfilling lunch.
• Elegant Dinner: Serve a slice of quiche as a sophisticated dinner option. Accompany it with a high-quality green salad, some artisan bread, and a glass of your favorite wine. It’s a simple meal that feels special.
• Picnics and Potlucks: Because it’s tasty cold, a crustless quiche is perfect for sharing at picnics or potlucks. It’s easy to transport and can be eaten with minimal fuss, making it ideal for outdoor meals or social gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Crustless Quiche

Q: Can I make this quiche vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables or a vegetarian protein source like tofu or tempeh. Make sure to season well to compensate for the flavor the sausage would have added.

Q: How do I know when the quiche is done baking?
A: The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. Inserting a knife or toothpick in the center should come out clean. The top should be lightly golden.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the mix, to prevent the quiche from becoming watery.

Q: Can I add milk instead of cream for a lighter version?
A: Definitely. Milk can be used in place of cream to lighten up the dish. Keep in mind the quiche may be slightly less rich but will still be delicious.

Q: How long does crustless quiche last in the fridge?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, the quiche can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Do’s and Don’ts for Making Crustless Quiche

Do’s:

• Do Precook Your Add-Ins: Sauté vegetables and cook meats before adding them to the quiche to remove excess moisture and ensure they are fully cooked.
• Do Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and proteins to find your favorite combinations.
• Do Let It Rest: Allow the quiche to rest for a few minutes after baking. This makes it easier to cut and serve.

Don’ts:

• Don’t Overfill the Pan: Keep the fillings and egg mixture within the pan’s capacity. Overfilling can cause the quiche to overflow during baking.
• Don’t Skip Seasoning: Be sure to season your egg mixture well with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. It makes a big difference in the overall flavor.
• Don’t Use High Moisture Vegetables Without Pre-Cooking: Vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and tomatoes can release a lot of water into your quiche. Sauté them first to evaporate some of that moisture.

Final Tips

Making a crustless quiche is a simple, flexible, and delicious way to enjoy a nutritious meal at any time of the day. By following the basic principles of balancing your ingredients, you can create a variety of flavors and combinations that keep this dish exciting and satisfying. Enjoy the process of customization and don’t be afraid to try new ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

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