Even though it sounds rather fancy, quiche is one of the easiest and most versatile breakfast options. Packed with protein and hearty vegetables, a slice of quiche can actually be a healthy start to your day. However, typical store-bought crusts are loaded with extra calories and fat, so we think you're better off opting for a homemade one. These creative crusts use ingredients besides flour and butter for a low-carb spin that doesn't sacrifice flavor or texture.
Advertisement
Credit: Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Mindi Shapiro Levine

There is no denying that quiches make for an easy, protein- and veggie-packed solution to your breakfast dilemma. Perhaps the best “kitchen sink” option for your morning meal desires, quiches are versatile, so you can switch things up to keep it exciting. While the quickest option is a store-bought crust, most of these pre-made crusts are high in calories, carbs, and fat. Plus, they're almost never made of wholesome whole-grain flours. This, in turn, can negate the wholesome, healthy interior of your quiche.

Rather than settling for a sub-par breakfast offering, whip up one of these alternative, lower-carb quiche crusts. By using unconventional ingredients from sweet potatoes to spaghetti squash, these faux-crusts create that hearty signature base to a hearty slice of pie.

1. Spinach and Feta Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust

With thin slices of sweet potato, this quiche comes right together with a starchy, sturdy crust that has a zing of sweetness. Drawing from ingredients that you probably already have, this hearty breakfast pie is a no-brainer for your next brunch.

2. Asparagus, Mushrooms, and Goat Cheese Quiche with Spaghetti Squash Crust

Credit: Sara Tane

Your favorite low-carb squash option just found a new, creative use, and it's in your quiche crust. Bound together with egg whites and blind-baked before adding the egg component, this low-calorie quiche acts as a soft, pillowy crust that encases a veggie-laden mixture with tangy goat cheese.

3. Spinach and Feta Quiche with Quinoa Crust

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor

Skip your grain bowl or your crunchy salad, and opt for a thick quinoa quiche crust instead. This hearty crust bound together with an egg and ancient whole grains serves as a delicious base for your favorite quiche filling.

4. Mushroom, Gruyère, and Spinach Quiche

Credit: Photo: Randy Mayor

Although the bulk of this crust is made with traditional flour like a store bought-crust, it's worth noting that we replaced butter with hearty-healthy olive oil instead. This substitution saves you over 50 calories, while still delivering that same flaky, starchy crust with each slice of quiche.

5. Mushroom-and-Spinach Quiche in an Oat Crust

Credit: Photo: Becky Luigart-Stayner

You might think the only way to enjoy oats at breakfast is a bowl of oatmeal, but we beg to differ. Rolled oats provide ample crunch and texture in this creamy, luscious quiche. Oat bran adds a ton of extra fiber to make this easy breakfast dish both tasty and a great way to start your day.