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These crustless mini quiches with leeks and smoked salmon offer a delightful twist on traditional quiche. Perfect as an appetizer, elegant starter, or light meal, they combine a delicate texture with rich flavors in convenient individual portions.
A Lighter Take on Classic Quiche
By skipping the pastry crust, these savory bites deliver all the satisfaction of quiche in a healthier package. Their versatility makes them ideal for any occasion - serve them hot from the oven, at room temperature, or chilled.
What You'll Need
- 2 leeks: Cleaned and thinly sliced
- 100g smoked salmon: Cut into small pieces
- 4 eggs: Room temperature
- 200ml heavy cream: Full-fat preferred
- Salt and pepper: Freshly ground
- Fresh chives: Finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing leeks
- Muffin tin: Well-greased
Cooking Instructions
- Preparation
- Thoroughly clean the leeks and slice thinly. Cut smoked salmon into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Cook the Leeks
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté leeks for 8-10 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Season lightly.
- Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs with heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped chives. Gently fold in cooled leeks and salmon pieces.
- Baking
- Pour mixture into greased muffin tins, leaving room for expansion. Bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until golden on top.
- Serving
- Let cool briefly before carefully removing from tin. Garnish with fresh chives.
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Tips and Variations
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the heavy cream. Consider adding fresh spinach or grated zucchini for extra vegetables. These mini quiches freeze well and can be quickly reheated in the oven when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these mini quiches ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store them in the fridge for 2–3 days. A few minutes in the oven will bring back their soft texture.
- → Are these quiches freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze well for 2–3 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them up for serving.
- → What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Feel free to swap it with a lighter cream or some plain yogurt. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
- → What kind of mold works best?
A non-stick muffin tray is ideal. No greasing needed if you’re using silicone molds.
- → How can I tell when the quiches are done?
The tops should look lightly golden, and the centers should feel firm to the touch. A clean knife after inserting into the middle is also a good hint.