A light and summery French-inspired quiche where tender sautéed courgettes meet a creamy egg-and-cream custard, all nestled in a buttery puff pastry shell. It’s fresh, elegant, and perfect for brunch, lunch, or a picnic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe showcases seasonal courgettes in the best possible way. The filling comes together effortlessly, and the combination of egg, cream, and cheese gives it that classic quiche creaminess. I appreciate that it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile—ideal for casual gatherings or a relaxed meal at home
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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4 small courgettes, finely sliced
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2 garlic cloves, crushed or grated
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5 eggs + 1 egg for egg wash
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100 ml whole or semi-skimmed milk
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200 ml double cream
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1 Tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
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1 sheet puff pastry
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30 g Parmesan, grated
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2 tsp mixed dried herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary)
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Small handful of chopped chives
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Olive oil, salt & pepper
directions
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Preheat the oven to 180 °C fan (200 °C conventional / 400 °F).
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Heat a splash of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high. Add the sliced courgettes; cook until softened and lightly golden. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together 5 eggs, milk, and double cream until combined. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir in the herbs, grated Parmesan, and chives
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Roll out the puff pastry into a tart pan or baking tray. Pour in the courgette mixture, spreading it evenly.
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Brush the pastry edges with the extra beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Bake for 30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the pastry is golden on the edges
Servings and timing
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Serves: 6
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Prep time: ~30 minutes
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Cook time: ~30 minutes
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Total time: ~1 hour
Variations
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Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pastry shell or go crustless.
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Cheese swap: Try goat cheese, Gruyère, or ricotta in place of Parmesan for a different flavor.
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Add-ins: Fold in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or even chopped spinach for extra variety.
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Mustard twist: The optional Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth—feel free to leave it out if preferred.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop slices into a low oven (about 160 °C) for around 10 minutes to restore crispness. It also tastes great served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use raw courgettes instead of sautéed?
I wouldn’t recommend it—raw courgettes release excess water during baking, which can result in a soggy quiche.
Can I prepare it the day before?
Yes, I often make it ahead. Once cooled, I cover it and refrigerate overnight. Before serving, I let it come to room temperature or warm it gently in the oven.
Do I have to use puff pastry?
No. I sometimes use a shortcrust pastry for a sturdier, more traditional quiche base. Puff pastry adds lightness and flakiness, but both work well.
Can I make it gluten‑free?
Absolutely. I use a gluten-free pastry shell or skip the crust entirely for a crustless version.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes—it’s delicious warm, at room temperature, or even cold, which is why I love bringing it on picnics!
Conclusion
This Courgette Quiche has become one of my favorite dishes for its ease, elegance, and summery freshness. The creamy custard and tender courgettes are a perfect pair, whether I’m entertaining or enjoying a quiet meal. It’s flexible, flavorful, and always impresses—give it a go and let me know how you like to personalize yours!
Print
Courgette Quiche
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A delicate, creamy tart filled with tender courgette ribbons, savory cheese, and a hint of fresh herbs—ideal for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
1 blind‑baked shortcrust pastry shell (9‑inch / 23 cm)
3 medium courgettes (zucchini), thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 large eggs
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
½ cup (120 ml) crème fraîche or heavy cream
⅔ cup (75 g) grated Gruyère or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
Instructions
Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add sliced courgettes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until just tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, crème fraîche, nutmeg, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Scatter half the cheese over the pastry shell. Spread the courgette‑onion mix evenly over the cheese.
Pour egg‑cream mixture gently over the filling, then sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until filling is set and top is golden.
Allow to rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes