If you’re looking for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make snack or appetizer, these Mini Leek and Smoked Salmon Quiches without Crust are a perfect choice. Combining the earthy sweetness of leeks with the smoky richness of salmon, these bite-sized quiches are both light and flavorful. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no crust, just a deliciously creamy filling packed with nutrients. The quiches are baked to golden perfection, making them a great addition to brunch, a party, or even a light meal.

The creamy mixture of eggs and crème fraîche binds the leeks and smoked salmon together, creating a soft yet firm texture that’s incredibly satisfying. With a touch of fresh chives for garnish, these mini quiches not only look elegant but taste like a gourmet dish. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them for yourself, these crustless quiches are bound to impress.

Easy to prepare and cook in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a great way to showcase the delicate flavors of leeks and salmon, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Crust, No Fuss: These mini quiches are completely crustless, making them simpler and quicker to prepare. They’re just as delicious without the extra carbs.
Elegant Flavor Combination: The combination of sweet, tender leeks and smoky salmon creates a sophisticated flavor that’s both savory and comforting.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, holiday gathering, or even a light dinner, these quiches are versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Light and Creamy: The filling is rich and creamy thanks to the crème fraîche, without feeling too heavy—perfect for those who love flavorful yet light dishes.
Easy to Make Ahead: These mini quiches can be made ahead of time and served either warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Ingredients

Leeks
Smoked salmon
Eggs
Crème fraîche
Salt and pepper
Chopped chives (for garnish)

Variations

Add Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, you can mix in some grated cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan into the egg mixture before baking.
Use Fresh Salmon: If you prefer, fresh cooked salmon can be used instead of smoked salmon for a milder flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the smoked salmon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for a vegetarian version of these quiches.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to complement the leeks and salmon.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great option for those on a gluten-free diet.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin with a little oil or butter to ensure the quiches don’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Leeks

Clean and slice the leeks. Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the leeks until they are soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Smoked Salmon

Cut the smoked salmon into small bite-sized pieces. This will ensure the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the quiche filling.

Step 4: Mix the Egg Base

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and crème fraîche until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The crème fraîche adds a tangy creaminess to the quiche, which pairs wonderfully with the salmon and leeks.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add the sautéed leeks and smoked salmon pieces into the egg mixture and stir to combine. The vegetables and salmon should be evenly spread throughout the egg mixture.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the egg mixture into the greased muffin molds. Fill each cavity about 3/4 full, as the quiches will puff up a little as they bake.

Step 7: Bake the Quiches

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mini quiches are golden on top and firm to the touch. You can check their doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

Step 8: Cool and Garnish

Allow the mini quiches to cool for a few minutes before carefully unmolding them from the tin. Once removed, sprinkle the top with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the mini quiches warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect on their own, or you can pair them with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a more substantial meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Sauté the Leeks Well: Be sure to cook the leeks thoroughly until they are soft and caramelized, as this brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor of the quiche.
Don’t Overfill the Muffin Tin: Only fill the muffin molds about 3/4 of the way full to give the quiches room to rise while baking.
Chill the Quiches: If you want to make these ahead of time, you can refrigerate them after baking. Reheat them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Use Fresh Crème Fraîche: Fresh crème fraîche will give the quiches a smooth, creamy texture. If you don’t have crème fraîche, you can substitute with sour cream, but the flavor will differ slightly.

How to Serve

These Mini Leek and Smoked Salmon Quiches are versatile and can be served in many ways:

For Brunch: Serve them alongside fresh fruit, a light salad, or a slice of avocado toast for a satisfying brunch spread.
As an Appetizer: Perfect for parties or gatherings, these quiches can be served as finger food—easy to pick up and enjoy.
With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
On Their Own: They’re delicious enough to stand alone as a snack or light meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven at a low temperature (150°C/300°F) for about 5-10 minutes.

Freezing

These mini quiches freeze well. Once they have cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the quiches in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes until they are warm. If reheating from frozen, increase the time to about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these quiches ahead of time?

Yes, these quiches can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them in the oven before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of fish instead of smoked salmon?

Yes, you can substitute smoked salmon with smoked mackerel, trout, or even cooked chicken for a different flavor.

3. Can I make these mini quiches without crème fraîche?

Yes, you can use sour cream or heavy cream as a substitute for crème fraîche. However, crème fraîche gives a tangy flavor that complements the leeks and salmon beautifully.

4. Are these quiches gluten-free?

Yes, these quiches are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain any flour or crust.

5. Can I use frozen leeks?

Fresh leeks are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen leeks can be used if that’s all you have. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly before adding them to the quiche mixture.

6. How can I make these quiches dairy-free?

To make these quiches dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or almond-based cream, and substitute the crème fraîche with a non-dairy yogurt.

7. Can I use store-bought smoked salmon?

Yes, store-bought smoked salmon works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just be sure to choose a high-quality product for the best flavor.

8. How long do these quiches last in the fridge?

These mini quiches can last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

9. Can I use different herbs for garnish?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon for a different flavor profile. They’ll all complement the leeks and salmon nicely.

10. Can I make this recipe into a large quiche?

Yes, you can make this recipe into one large quiche by pouring the mixture into a greased pie dish or tart pan and baking for 30-40 minutes until firm.

Conclusion

These Mini Leek and Smoked Salmon Quiches without Crust are an elegant, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy filling, with its savory leeks and smoky salmon, is irresistible and makes for a flavorful snack

or appetizer. The crustless nature of the quiche means it’s lighter but just as delicious as its traditional counterparts. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these mini quiches are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them!