Name: Vegetable & Herb Quiche from Provence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 9-inch pastry crust; 1 zucchini, sliced thin; ½ red bell pepper, diced; 1 tomato, sliced; 3 eggs; 1 cup milk; ½ cup grated Comté or Swiss cheese; 1 tsp Herbes de Provence; Salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rustic quiche is a celebration of fresh, vibrant vegetables and the aromatic flavors of Provence. The combination of zucchini, bell pepper, and tomato provides a colorful, satisfying filling, while the creamy egg custard and cheese create a rich and savory texture. The Herbes de Provence adds that quintessential French touch, making this quiche not just a meal, but an experience. Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining, this dish can be enjoyed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Ingredients

1 9-inch pastry crust
1 zucchini, sliced thin
½ red bell pepper, diced
1 tomato, sliced
3 eggs
1 cup milk
½ cup grated Comté or Swiss cheese
1 tsp Herbes de Provence
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté the zucchini and red bell pepper until just soft, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs with milk, Herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Quiche: Arrange the sautéed vegetables and tomato slices evenly in the pastry crust.
Add the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, and then top with the grated Comté or Swiss cheese.
Bake the Quiche: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown on top. You can check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Add More Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables, such as eggplant, mushrooms, spinach, or leeks, to suit your taste.
Cheese Substitutes: If you prefer, you can swap Comté or Swiss cheese with Gruyère, cheddar, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pastry crust if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
Make It Vegan: Use plant-based milk, a vegan egg substitute (like chickpea flour or tofu), and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the quiche in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. It can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before sautéing them.

2. Can I make the quiche ahead of time?

Yes, this quiche can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It’s even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld.

3. Can I freeze this quiche?

Yes, you can freeze the quiche before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the quiche, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake it directly from the freezer at 375°F for 50-60 minutes.

4. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, store-bought pie crust works well for convenience, but homemade crust will add a nice touch if you have the time.

5. How do I avoid a soggy bottom crust?

To prevent a soggy crust, you can blind-bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This will help create a crispier base.

6. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Herbes de Provence?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano instead of dried Herbes de Provence for a more vibrant flavor.

7. How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?

The quiche is fully cooked when the filling is set and golden brown on top. If you insert a toothpick in the center, it should come out clean.

8. Can I serve this quiche at room temperature?

Yes, this quiche can be served at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics, brunches, or potlucks.

9. Can I make this quiche without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version, or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.

10. Can I add a crustless version of this quiche?

Yes, you can make this quiche without the crust by simply greasing the baking dish and pouring the vegetable and egg mixture directly into it. Bake as usual.

Conclusion

This Vegetable & Herb Quiche from Provence is a light, savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy custard, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s an easy way to bring the taste of Provence to your table. Whether you serve it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this quiche is sure to be a hit with vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and incredibly delicious!