Salmon Quiche Recipe – A Flavorful, Protein-Packed Brunch Favorite

Looking for a delicious way to level up your brunch game? This salmon quiche recipe is everything you need—creamy, savory, packed with protein, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, impressing guests at a weekend brunch, or simply craving something comforting and nutrient-rich, this recipe has you covered.

You’ll learn not only how to make the best salmon quiche from scratch but also explore flavor variations, health benefits, and serving suggestions to make it truly your own. If you love dishes like Crab Quiche or Tortilla Quiche Bake, you’ll definitely want to add this salmon version to your recipe rotation.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try for quiche lovers.

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Why Salmon Quiche Deserves a Spot in Your Meal Plan

Health Benefits of Salmon in Quiche

One of the standout ingredients in this dish is, of course, salmon—a rich source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats help lower inflammation, improve brain health, and support heart function. When you pair salmon with eggs, cheese, and vegetables in a quiche, you create a nutrient-dense meal that satisfies your taste buds and your wellness goals.

According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, eating fish like salmon twice a week can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Not only is salmon full of flavor, but it also gives the quiche a luxurious texture and a boost of color—especially when using wild-caught varieties.

How Quiche Offers a Perfect Balance of Protein, Veggies, and Flavor

Quiche is more than just a fancy egg pie. It’s a canvas for blending proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-packed veggies. A well-prepared salmon quiche brings balance to your plate: rich and creamy from the eggs and dairy, flaky and light from the crust, and vibrant from fresh herbs and vegetables like spinach or dill.

You can easily adapt this dish to your dietary needs, making it low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free with the right substitutions. Discover great ideas like the Egg White Frittata if you’re leaning toward a lighter breakfast option with similar nutritional benefits.

Another bonus? Salmon quiche is just as good cold as it is hot, making it a great make-ahead meal or addition to a brunch buffet.

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Ingredients for the Best Salmon Quiche Recipe

Fresh vs Canned Salmon: Which One to Use?

When making the perfect salmon quiche, the first big decision is: fresh or canned salmon?

Fresh salmon brings out a fuller flavor and offers better texture. It’s ideal when you want your quiche to stand out with buttery, flaky fish bites. Wild-caught salmon is the healthiest choice, offering high omega-3 content and minimal processing. Lightly seasoning and roasting the fillet before adding it to the filling enhances depth and umami.

On the flip side, canned salmon is a budget-friendly and convenient alternative. It’s pre-cooked, easy to shred, and works beautifully when you’re short on time. Opt for skinless, boneless canned salmon packed in water for a leaner quiche. If you prefer a richer taste, choose versions packed in oil.

Whichever route you choose, make sure to drain and flake the salmon well before mixing it into your quiche base.

Pro Tip: If using canned salmon, pair it with bolder cheeses or herbs (like goat cheese and dill) to enhance its flavor.

Ideal Quiche Add-ins: Cheese, Herbs, and Vegetables

The beauty of quiche lies in its flexibility—and the right add-ins can elevate your salmon quiche recipe to gourmet status.

Here’s a table summarizing excellent combinations:

Ingredient Type	Top Choices for Salmon Quiche	Why It Works
Cheese	Gruyère, goat cheese, cream cheese, cheddar	Adds creaminess, tanginess, or nuttiness
Herbs	Dill, parsley, chives, tarragon	Enhances freshness and balances richness
Vegetables	Spinach, asparagus, red onion, leeks, cherry tomatoes	Adds color, crunch, and nutritional variety

Make sure to sauté vegetables like onions or spinach before adding them to prevent excess moisture from ruining your quiche’s structure. You’ll want everything slightly cooled before mixing with the eggs.

Not sure how bold to go? Try combinations inspired by other recipes. For instance, this Sausage Quiche uses cheddar and spinach—a combo that works just as well with salmon.

And don’t forget your spices! A pinch of black pepper, a dash of paprika, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Salmon Quiche

Preparing Your Crust: Homemade or Store-Bought?

The crust is the foundation of any quiche—and your choice between homemade or store-bought can shape both the flavor and texture of your salmon quiche.

Homemade crust offers unbeatable flakiness and buttery richness. If you’re comfortable with pie dough, making your own is worth the extra 10 minutes. A simple mix of all-purpose flour, cold butter, salt, and ice water is all it takes. Blind-bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to prevent sogginess when the egg filling is added.

For a quicker option, store-bought pie crusts work just fine. Choose a deep-dish shell to avoid spillage and still blind-bake it before filling. Puff pastry is another alternative that brings lightness and crisp layers—perfect if you’re going for an elevated presentation.

Gluten-free option? You can easily swap in a gluten-free crust or try a crustless version, which we’ll explore in Part 4.

Mixing and Baking the Salmon Quiche Filling

Once your crust is ready, it’s time to bring the filling together.

Here’s a basic but flavorful recipe ratio to build from:

Ingredient	Amount
Eggs	4 large
Heavy cream or milk	1 cup (240 ml)
Flaked salmon	1 to 1½ cups
Cheese (grated)	¾ cup
Cooked veggies/herbs	½ to 1 cup total
Salt and pepper	To taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk eggs and cream/milk in a mixing bowl until fully combined.
3. Add salmon, cheese, herbs, and pre-cooked vegetables into the egg mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like nutmeg or paprika.
5. Pour the mixture into your pre-baked crust.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
7. Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the quiche to firm up for clean cuts.

For a visual reference, don’t miss our tips inside the Ultimate Tortilla Quiche Bake Guide, which breaks down similar quiche-style methods.

Pro Tip: Place your quiche pan on a baking sheet before transferring it to the oven. This helps catch any spills and makes it easier to move in and out.

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Variations of Salmon Quiche You Must Try

Crustless Salmon Quiche (Low-Carb Option)

Trying to cut back on carbs? The crustless salmon quiche is your go-to solution. It has all the creamy, savory richness of traditional quiche but skips the crust for a lighter, gluten-free option that’s easier to prep and easier on your macros.

To make a crustless version:

• Grease a deep 9-inch pie dish or quiche pan generously with butter or non-stick spray.
• Follow the same egg mixture ratio (eggs, cream, salmon, cheese, veggies).
• Pour it directly into the pan and bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes.

The result? A firm yet tender egg custard loaded with omega-3s and flavor. This version makes a great high-protein breakfast or weeknight dinner that reheats beautifully.

Want more gluten-free brilliance? Check out the protein-rich twist in our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust.

Smoked Salmon Quiche vs Cooked Salmon

If you’re craving bold, smoky depth in your quiche, consider swapping in smoked salmon for a more luxurious, brunch-forward feel. Here’s how the two compare:

Feature	Cooked Salmon	Smoked Salmon
Texture	Flaky and tender	Silky and rich
Flavor Profile	Mild and savory	Salty, smoky, slightly tangy
Best Paired With	Cheddar, dill, spinach	Goat cheese, capers, red onions

Smoked salmon doesn’t need to be cooked further, so be cautious not to overbake the quiche, which could intensify the saltiness. Balance the flavor with milder cheeses or creamier bases like crème fraîche or mascarpone.

You can even combine both types in one recipe for complexity—smoked salmon as a garnish and cooked salmon in the filling.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Buffalo Chicken Dip if you’re into creamy, bold-flavored dishes that use high-impact ingredients creatively.

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Serving Suggestions for Salmon Quiche

What to Serve with Salmon Quiche: Salads, Soups, Sides

While salmon quiche stands tall on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes turns a simple slice into a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re hosting brunch, lunch, or dinner, here are some tried-and-true sidekicks that enhance both taste and presentation.

Best Salads to Serve with Salmon Quiche:

• Arugula and Fennel Salad – A peppery crunch to balance the richness of the quiche.
• Spinach Strawberry Salad – For a touch of sweetness and color contrast.
• Lemon-Dijon Kale Salad – Offers a hearty, tangy counterpoint that holds its own.

Soups That Pair Beautifully:

• Tomato Basil Soup – Creamy and comforting, this classic balances salmon’s savory notes.
• Roasted Red Pepper Soup – Adds smoky sweetness and vibrant color to your plate.
• Chilled Cucumber Soup – A refreshing option for warm-weather brunches.

Simple Sides Worth Trying:

Side Dish	Why It Works
Roasted Baby Potatoes	Adds a crispy, earthy element that’s brunch-approved
Steamed Asparagus	Elegant, light, and seasonally fresh
Baguette Toast Points	Great for mopping up extra quiche filling or salad dressings

Don’t miss our Birria Tacos Recipe if you’re looking to diversify your brunch table with bold, meaty flavor.

Best Drinks and Wines to Pair with Your Dish

Drinks can make or break a well-set meal. Here’s how to pair beverages with your salmon quiche recipe to complement its richness and elevate the overall flavor profile.

Top Non-Alcoholic Options:

• Sparkling Water with Citrus – Keeps the palate refreshed between bites.
• Iced Green Tea – Offers a subtle bitterness that contrasts the creaminess.
• Fresh-Squeezed Grapefruit Juice – A zesty burst of acid to cleanse your palate.

Best Wines to Serve with Salmon Quiche:

• Chardonnay (unoaked) – Its crisp, light flavor won’t overpower the quiche.
• Sauvignon Blanc – Offers bright acidity that pairs especially well with herbs and smoked salmon.
• Rosé – Fruity and refreshing, perfect for daytime brunches.

Cocktail Tip: A light mimosa or gin spritz with cucumber can also be a great complement for brunch gatherings.

Looking for more light yet flavorful pairings? Don’t miss our Quick Naan Pizza Recipe—another versatile base for fun, flavorful toppings that pair well with similar sides.

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Storing and Reheating Salmon Quiche

How to Store Leftovers Properly

When stored right, salmon quiche can last several days without losing quality—and even tastes better the next day as flavors deepen.

Follow these steps for ideal storage:

1. Cool Completely: Let your quiche sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes after baking.
2. Wrap It Tight: Cover it with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer individual slices to an airtight container.
3. Refrigeration Timeframe: It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

If you want to keep it longer, quiche also freezes well:

• Wrap whole or sliced quiche tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil or freezer bags.
• Label with the date. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

Freezer Tip: Pre-slice your quiche before freezing for easy portioning. You can pull out exactly what you need.

For more ideas on delicious meals that store well, check out this Dessert Pizza Recipe—yes, it’s a sweet twist, but it follows the same principles for fridge-friendly foods.

Best Practices for Reheating Without Drying It Out

The biggest mistake people make when reheating quiche? Blasting it in the microwave, which can make it rubbery or dry.

Here’s how to bring your quiche back to life:

Method	How to Do It	Pros
Oven	Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil. Bake 15–20 minutes.	Even heating, crispy crust
Toaster Oven	Great for individual slices. Heat at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.	Perfect for small portions
Microwave (Last Resort)	Use medium heat and reheat in 30-second bursts. Add a cup of water in the microwave to create steam.	Fast, but may affect texture

If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. Avoid microwaving from frozen—it tends to overcook the edges before the center is warm.

Pro Tip: Don’t reheat more than once. Only warm what you plan to eat to preserve flavor and food safety.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Salmon Quiche

Overcooking Eggs or Underbaking the Crust

Even the best ingredients can fall flat if you don’t watch your bake. One of the most frequent missteps when making salmon quiche is overcooking the egg custard. This causes it to become rubbery and dry, especially around the edges.

Avoid this by:

• Baking until the center is just set. It should jiggle slightly when shaken.
• Using a thermometer—the center should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
• Letting the quiche rest for 10–15 minutes after baking, which helps it finish cooking and firm up without overbaking.

Another issue? Soggy crust. If your crust isn’t pre-baked (also known as blind baking), it won’t hold up to the moisture from eggs, salmon, and vegetables.

Fix it by:

• Always blind bake the crust for 10–12 minutes before filling.
• Brush the inside with a bit of egg white and return it to the oven for 2 minutes—this seals the surface and keeps it crispy.

You can also discover quiche-building tips from our Best Sausage Quiche Recipe which follows a similar baking process with flavorful fillings.

Using Overpowering Ingredients That Mask the Salmon

Salmon has a beautifully subtle flavor—so it’s important not to drown it out with overly aggressive ingredients.

Here’s what to avoid:

• Too much garlic: A little goes a long way.
• Extra salty cheese: Smoked gouda, aged feta, or blue cheese can overpower.
• Too many fillings: More isn’t always better. Overloading with veggies, cheese, or spices can throw off balance.

Instead, focus on complementary flavors like:

• Mild cheeses: Gruyère, cream cheese, or goat cheese.
• Fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives.
• Tender veggies: Leeks, baby spinach, or zucchini.

This principle of balance shows up in other dishes too—check out our Oyster Omelette Recipe where we also highlight how to let key ingredients shine without being drowned by extras.

Bonus Tip: Taste test your egg mixture before baking (minus raw eggs if possible) to make sure your seasoning is just right.

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Nutritional Information and Benefits of Salmon Quiche

Calorie Breakdown Per Serving

While quiche can feel like an indulgent dish, this salmon quiche recipe hits a sweet spot between flavor and function. It’s high in protein, full of healthy fats, and can be adjusted to fit a range of dietary goals.

Here’s a basic nutritional estimate per serving (based on an 8-slice yield, using cooked salmon, whole milk, and a traditional crust):

Nutrient	Amount (per slice)
Calories	~320–380 kcal
Protein	18–20 grams
Carbohydrates	14–16 grams
Fat	22–25 grams
Saturated Fat	~8 grams
Omega-3s	~1000–1200 mg
Fiber	1–2 grams

Note: These numbers vary based on the ingredients you use. Lower-fat milk, crustless options, or reduced cheese will significantly reduce calories and fat.

If you’re watching your macros, the crustless version (as covered in Part 4) is a game-changer—cutting total carbs by nearly half while maintaining flavor.

Omega-3s, Protein, and Essential Nutrients

Let’s break down why this dish is more than just brunch-worthy.

• High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is a top source of EPA and DHA, two powerful fatty acids that support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote cognitive function.
• Rich in Protein: The combination of salmon and eggs provides all nine essential amino acids—making this a complete protein meal.
• Loaded with B Vitamins: You’ll get a strong dose of B12, niacin, and B6, all vital for energy and brain health.
• Calcium and Vitamin D: If you use dairy cheese and milk, your quiche will also provide a nice boost of bone-strengthening nutrients.

For those seeking a flavorful meal that doesn’t sacrifice nutrition, this recipe checks every box. Learn more about how we blend health and flavor in our Healthy Egg White Frittata—another protein-packed, brunch-ready dish.

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Salmon Quiche Recipe Ideas from Other Cultures

French-Style Salmon Quiche Lorraine

When you think of classic quiche, Quiche Lorraine likely comes to mind. This traditional French dish typically features bacon, onions, and a creamy egg custard—but it’s just as elegant with a seafood twist.

To create a salmon version of Quiche Lorraine:

• Swap the bacon for smoked salmon.
• Add caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.
• Bake it in a buttery pâte brisée crust (French-style shortcrust pastry).

This refined dish is perfect for brunches, bridal showers, or when you simply want to impress. Pair with a light salad and a crisp glass of white wine for that authentic Parisian café feel.

You can also try the savory-sweet layering techniques we use in our Dessert Pizza Recipe for contrasting textures and balance.

Mediterranean Twist with Feta and Dill

Give your quiche a sun-drenched, coastal flair with a Mediterranean-style salmon quiche. This version leans into bold herbs and salty cheeses that pair perfectly with the richness of salmon.

Try these flavor swaps:

• Use feta cheese instead of cheddar.
• Add chopped kalamata olives, fresh dill, and a handful of baby spinach.
• A drizzle of olive oil and lemon zest on top adds brightness and Mediterranean charm.

This version works great crustless too, making it ideal for keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets. It’s light, aromatic, and absolutely loaded with flavor.

For those who love fusion recipes, our Crab Quiche also explores seafood quiche with creative, coastal flavor profiles.

Pro Tip: You can even bake your Mediterranean salmon quiche in a cast iron skillet for a rustic look and evenly golden crust.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate salmon quiche recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you keep it classic, go crustless, or mix in Mediterranean or French-inspired flavors, salmon quiche is always a smart, satisfying choice for any meal of the day. Packed with protein, omega-3s, and endless customization options, it’s perfect for busy families, brunches with friends, or meal prepping like a pro.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust or Buffalo Chicken Dip for more high-protein dishes that don’t sacrifice flavor.

Now it’s your turn—get cracking, and make this salmown quiche your next go-to dish.

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