Mini Leek and Smoked Salmon Quiches without Crust

Mini Leek and Smoked Salmon Quiches without Crust are a savory and elegant dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a brunch, party, or a light dinner. These quiches are rich and creamy with the delicate flavors of leeks and smoky salmon, all bound together in a custard-like filling. What sets these quiches apart is the absence of a traditional pastry crust, making them lighter yet still satisfying. The creamy texture from the crème fraîche and eggs complements the slightly sweet leeks and the bold, salty smoked salmon. This dish is easy to prepare and bakes in just under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those who want something special without the fuss.

With only a handful of ingredients, including the fresh and vibrant addition of chives on top, these crustless quiches have a simple yet sophisticated appeal. The combination of flavors is sure to delight anyone who loves the classic pairing of leeks and smoked salmon. Whether you serve them for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a larger spread, they are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No Crust for a Lighter Bite

These mini quiches are made without the traditional crust, making them lighter but still just as flavorful. Perfect for anyone looking to reduce carbs or enjoy a healthier option.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just 15 minutes of prep time and a quick 20-25 minute bake, you can have delicious quiches ready in no time.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a brunch gathering, a holiday breakfast, or a light dinner, these quiches are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

4. Flavorful and Satisfying

The combination of creamy eggs, leeks, and smoked salmon creates a rich, satisfying dish without feeling too heavy.

5. Make Ahead Option

You can prepare these quiches in advance and serve them cold or at room temperature, making them ideal for meal prep or a make-ahead dish for a party.

Ingredients

• Leeks
• Smoked salmon
• Eggs
• Crème fraîche
• Salt and pepper
• Chopped chives

Variations

• Add Cheese: Grate some cheese like cheddar, parmesan, or feta into the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the smoked salmon with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
• Herb Variations: While chives work wonderfully, you can also experiment with fresh dill, parsley, or thyme to enhance the flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2: Cook the Leeks

Clean and slice the leeks, then brown them in a pan with a bit of olive oil until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Smoked Salmon

Cut the smoked salmon into small pieces, ensuring they will fit evenly into the quiche mixture.

Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, beat the eggs with the crème fraîche. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked leeks and smoked salmon into the egg mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Molds

Grease your muffin molds and divide the quiche mixture into the molds, filling them nearly to the top.

Step 7: Bake the Quiches

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the quiches are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 8: Cool and Unmold

Let the quiches cool slightly before carefully unmolding them from the muffin tin.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped chives and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Leek Preparation: Make sure to clean the leeks thoroughly to remove any grit. Slice them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Smoked Salmon Tip: If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of smoked salmon or substitute it with cooked chicken or turkey breast.
• Muffin Tin Use: Grease the muffin tin generously to avoid sticking, or use silicone muffin cups for easy removal.
• Serving Tip: These quiches are great served with a simple side salad or some fresh fruit.

How to Serve

These mini quiches can be served as a brunch dish alongside fresh fruit, a green salad, or as part of a buffet spread. They are equally delightful served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for parties or meal prepping. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or a light white wine for a sophisticated touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover quiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

These mini quiches freeze well. After baking and cooling, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the quiches in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or heat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen leeks?

Yes, frozen leeks can be used, but make sure they are thoroughly drained and dried before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the quiches.

2. Can I add cheese to the mixture?

Yes, cheese works great in this recipe! You can add a handful of shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan to the egg mixture for extra flavor.

3. Can I make these quiches ahead of time?

Absolutely! These quiches can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

4. Can I use regular cream instead of crème fraîche?

You can use regular heavy cream if needed, but crème fraîche adds a nice tangy flavor that complements the smoked salmon.

5. Can I use another type of fish?

Yes, you can replace the smoked salmon with another smoked fish like trout or mackerel, or even use fresh seafood like shrimp or crab.

6. Can I make a larger quiche?

Yes, you can bake the mixture in a tart or pie dish. Simply adjust the baking time to 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the dish.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to add other sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to customize the quiches to your liking.

8. Can I use a different herb for garnish?

Yes, fresh parsley, dill, or even basil would work wonderfully as an alternative to chives.

9. How do I prevent the quiches from being too soggy?

Make sure the leeks are cooked thoroughly and not too watery before adding them to the mixture.

10. Can I serve these quiches cold?

Yes, these mini quiches are great served at room temperature or cold, making them perfect for a picnic or packed lunch.

Conclusion

Mini Leek and Smoked Salmon Quiches without Crust are a simple yet elegant dish that brings together the rich flavors of smoked salmon and leeks in a creamy egg filling. Perfect for any occasion, these quiches are easy to make, versatile, and can be prepared ahead of time. Whether served warm for brunch or cold for a picnic, they are sure to impress your guests and become a go-to recipe for all your gatherings.

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