Vegan kale quiche is a nutritious, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any meal of the day. This savory plant-based recipe features a creamy egg-free custard, tender kale, and a flaky vegan crust. Whether you’re preparing a hearty brunch, light dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this quiche is guaranteed to impress.
The combination of kale’s nutritional power and the creamy texture of a tofu-based filling makes this quiche not only delicious but incredibly healthy. Learn why kale is considered a superfood in this Healthline guide. Additionally, achieving the perfect quiche crust is easy with this blind baking tutorial.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 100% Plant-Based: Egg-free, dairy-free, and perfect for vegans.
- Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with kale, a superfood high in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, vegan cheeses, or seasonings.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients for Vegan Kale Quiche
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this savory delight:
For the Vegan Crust
- 1 vegan pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling
- 3 cups kale, washed, destemmed, and chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup silken tofu (or chickpea flour as an alternative)
- ½ cup nutritional yeast
- ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (soy, almond, or oat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional for color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegan Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out your vegan pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges for a clean look.
- Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Line the crust with parchment paper, add pie weights, and blind bake for 10–12 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
For a perfect crust every time, follow these detailed blind baking tips.
2. Cook the Kale and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant (3–4 minutes).
- Add the kale to the skillet and cook until wilted. If you’re adding mushrooms or bell peppers, sauté them alongside the kale.
- Pat the mixture dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture—this will prevent a watery quiche.
3. Prepare the Vegan Custard
- In a blender or food processor, combine the following:
- 1 cup silken tofu (or chickpea flour for a soy-free option)
- ½ cup plant-based milk
- ½ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the Quiche
- Spread the sautéed kale and vegetable mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Pour the vegan custard mixture over the filling, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the top and garnish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
5. Bake the Quiche
- Bake the quiche in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the custard is firm and the top is slightly golden.
- Let the quiche cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Tips for the Best Vegan Kale Quiche
- Blind Bake for Crispiness: Pre-baking the crust prevents it from getting soggy.
- Remove Excess Moisture: Always pat your cooked kale and vegetables dry.
- Flavor Boost: Add smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Cheese-Like Flavor: Nutritional yeast gives the filling a deliciously cheesy taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your vegan kale quiche with these sides for a complete meal:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Soup: Try it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or lentil stew.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- Dessert: End on a sweet note with this delightful stovetop crème caramel.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 30 seconds.
FAQs About Vegan Kale Quiche
1. Can I use frozen kale?
Yes! Thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before using.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free vegan pie crust or going crustless.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach are great additions.
4. What’s the best plant-based milk for this quiche?
Soy milk works best for its creamy consistency, but almond or oat milk are great alternatives.
Conclusion
This vegan kale quiche is a flavorful, plant-based recipe that’s as healthy as it is delicious. With its creamy tofu-based custard, nutrient-packed kale, and flaky vegan crust, it’s perfect for any meal of the day. Serve it warm for brunch, pack it for lunch, or enjoy it as a light dinner with a side salad or soup.
For more delicious plant-based meal ideas, explore these dinner recipes to find inspiration for your next meal. Try this recipe today and experience the perfect blend of health and flavor!