### Cashew Zucchini Quiche: A Delicious and Healthy Main Dish Recipe
#### Introduction to Cashew Zucchini Quiche
Cashew zucchini quiche is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a healthy yet creamy main dish that's rich in flavor. This recipe combines the mild, slightly sweet taste of cashews with the crunchy texture of zucchini. It’s not only low in calories but also packed with nutrients like fiber and antioxidants.
#### Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or make your own)
- 2 large zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 2 hours (drained before use)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any non-dairy milk of your choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Zucchini**: Slice the zucchinis into thin strips using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, ensuring they are evenly sized.
3. **Soak and Drain Cashews**: Ensure your cashews have soaked for at least 2 hours to soften them. Then drain them well.
4. **Cook Zucchini Slices**: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini slices and sauté until they are slightly softened but still crisp. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.
5. **Make the Cashew Cream Base**: In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews with the non-dairy milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk; for a thicker texture, reduce the amount of milk used.
6. **Assemble the Quiche**: Lay out the pre-made pie crust in your baking dish. Spread the cashew cream evenly across the bottom. Next, layer the sautéed zucchini slices over the cashew mixture.
7. **Add Eggs and Bake**: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs. Pour them over the top of the zucchini and cashew layers. Ensure that all ingredients are well combined with the egg mixture.
8. **Bake the Quiche**: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and a golden brown color on top.
9. **Cool Down and Serve**: Once done, allow the quiche to cool slightly before serving. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread.
#### Tips and Variations
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some nutritional yeast over the zucchini slices before baking.
- To make it more filling, consider adding other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Experiment with different herbs such as basil, thyme, or parsley to give your quiche a unique twist.
#### Conclusion
Cashew zucchini quiche is an excellent choice for a nutritious and delicious main dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it appealing to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Enjoy this recipe as part of a balanced diet and explore more creative ways to incorporate cashews into your meals!
By following these detailed steps, you’ll create a delightful and healthy main dish that is sure to impress at any meal!