Squash Quiche Canoes
Creamy squash quiche canoes feature tender squash filled with a cheesy, savory mixture, perfect for brunch or light dinners, appealing to vegetable lovers and cheese enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble.
- Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat.
- Hollow out the squash, halving large ones lengthwise if needed.
- Discard seeds and pith, chop the remaining flesh, and sauté in bacon fat for 5 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Blend beaten eggs with heavy cream.
- Add grated Swiss cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, crumbled bacon, and sautéed squash to the egg mixture.
- Fill the hollowed squash with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry bread crumbs on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. You can also swap out Swiss cheese for a sharper cheddar or a dairy-free alternative for those avoiding dairy. If you want to add more depth of flavor, sauté some onions or garlic along with the squash. Make sure to hollow out the squash thoroughly to hold the filling well.
Serving Suggestions
These squash quiche canoes make a great brunch centerpiece. Serve them with a fresh green salad dressed with Bacon Dressing For Lettuce Or Endive for a delicious contrast. They also pair beautifully with a side of roasted potatoes or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside some crispy bacon or sausage.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the quiche canoes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture and prevent the filling from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Quiche Canoes contains roughly 1218 calories, with 33g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2339mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other varieties of squash such as butternut or acorn squash. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed since different squashes have varying textures and moisture levels.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture. Using a plant-based cheese can also help maintain the creaminess of the dish.
How can I tell when the quiche is done baking?
The quiche is done when the filling is set and the top is golden brown. You can gently shake the baking dish; if the filling is firm and doesn't jiggle, it's ready. An inserted knife should come out clean as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).