If you’re looking for a comforting, elegant, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal of the day — this Zucchini Ribbon & Ham Quiche is your new favourite. With silky ribbons of zucchini, flavorful smoked ham, and a custardy filling wrapped in a buttery crust, this quiche is a true crowd-pleaser.
Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch, a quick weekday breakfast, or a light lunch, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Let’s dive in!
What Is a Zucchini Ribbon & Ham Quiche?
A quiche is a French-inspired baked dish made with a savory custard (eggs and cream) combined with vegetables, cheese, and sometimes meat, baked in a flaky pie crust.
This version features fresh zucchini ribbons that add a touch of lightness and elegance. The smoked ham gives a savory, hearty flavor, making it ideal for those who love rich yet balanced dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Easy to make — Simple ingredients, minimal prep.
✔️ Healthy & filling — Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
✔️ Perfect for meal prep — Stays fresh for days in the fridge.
✔️ Elegant look — The zucchini ribbons make it visually stunning.
✔️ Freezer-friendly — Bake once and enjoy multiple servings later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy and delicious quiche:
For the crust (optional):
- 1 ready-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
For the filling:
- 1 medium zucchini (thinly sliced into ribbons using a peeler)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham (smoked or honey-roasted)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or Swiss)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and blind bake it for about 10 minutes to prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Make Zucchini Ribbons
Using a vegetable peeler, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin, wide ribbons. Lightly sprinkle with salt and set aside for 5–10 minutes to draw out excess water. Then, pat dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Sauté Onions & Ham
In a pan, heat olive oil or butter. Add onions and sauté until translucent. Add diced ham and cook for another 2–3 minutes to enhance the flavor. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or cream), salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Quiche
Spread the sautéed onion and ham mixture evenly over the crust.
Add the zucchini ribbons in a spiral or layered pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly.
Pour the egg mixture on top, making sure everything is well-covered.
Step 6: Bake
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Expert Tips for Perfect Quiche
💡 Tip 1: Use cold crust for a crisp base — it prevents sogginess.
💡 Tip 2: Don’t overbake — quiche should be slightly wobbly in the center when done.
💡 Tip 3: Try mixing cheeses like Gruyère + mozzarella for richer flavor.
💡 Tip 4: For a low-carb version, skip the crust and bake directly in a greased dish.
💡 Tip 5: Add herbs like thyme or dill for an extra aroma.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh garden salad or tomato soup for a complete meal.
- Pair it with a glass of white wine or lemon iced tea for brunch perfection.
- Great for picnics, potlucks, or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave or oven-heat slices until warm. Avoid overheating to retain moisture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~270 kcal |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.
Variations You Can Try
- Vegetarian version: Skip ham and add mushrooms or spinach.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Cheesy overload: Use three cheeses — cheddar, mozzarella, and feta.
- Mini quiches: Make small portions using muffin tins for parties or meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini Ribbon & Ham Quiche Recipe is not just a meal — it’s an experience. Beautiful to look at, simple to prepare, and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish that never disappoints.
Perfect for health-conscious food lovers, this quiche blends elegance and comfort effortlessly. So next time you want something both nutritious and indulgent — make this Zucchini Ribbon & Ham Quiche and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
