Zucchini Quiche

Zucchini and Mozzarella Quiche

Zucchini is a versatile and delicious ingredient, perfect for a variety of dishes, and zucchini quiche is an excellent choice for a quick and tasty dinner. This recipe will take you on a culinary journey full of flavors, bringing a touch of freshness to your plate. Quiche is a savory tart originating from European culinary tradition, perfectly combining flaky pastry with rich and savory fillings.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:
- 4 zucchinis (about 800 g)
- 25 g butter
- 2 eggs
- 125 g mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon cream
- salt
- pepper
- 1 sheet of puff pastry

Preparation:
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the zucchinis well and peeling them. Then, slice them thinly. This technique will help the zucchinis cook evenly and integrate perfectly into the filling.

2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic cloves. In a large skillet, add the butter and olive oil, then heat them over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. This step will add a flavorful and deep taste to your quiche.

3. Add the zucchinis: Once the onion is ready, add the zucchini slices to the skillet. Gently stir, cooking until the zucchinis become soft, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Season: Add the dried thyme and basil, mixing well to incorporate the flavors. Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool.

5. Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the mustard and cream, mixing well. These ingredients will add extra flavor and creaminess to the quiche.

6. Assemble the quiche: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the puff pastry sheet in the tart pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed on the bottom and sides. Place the zucchini mixture over the pastry, then pour the egg filling on top. Tear the mozzarella into pieces and sprinkle over the quiche.

7. Bake the quiche: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the quiche is golden and firm to the touch. It's the perfect time to enjoy the aroma that will fill the entire kitchen!

8. Serving: Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. You can accompany this dish with a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can replace mozzarella with goat cheese or brie.
- The zucchini quiche can be frozen, so you can prepare a larger batch for busy days.
- Experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to create interesting variations of the recipe.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This zucchini quiche recipe is a healthy choice, rich in vegetables. Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamins (especially vitamin C) and minerals, with a low-calorie content. A serving of quiche contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but it is important to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the recipe.

2. How can I make the quiche lower in calories?
You can use whole wheat puff pastry or a gluten-free option, and instead of cream, you can opt for Greek yogurt.

3. What other flavors can I add?
You can experiment with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, or add some olives for a Mediterranean taste.

This zucchini and mozzarella quiche will surely become one of your favorite recipes for relaxing evenings at home. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table, sharing with loved ones a delicacy full of flavors and textures!