Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie With Crumb Topping (VRP 015)

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Despite its name, this Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie from VRP 015 is more akin to a savory quiche or casserole than a traditional pie. It’s a hearty dish that combines zucchini, ham, Swiss cheese, and sour cream, all layered in a pre-baked pie shell with a delicious crumb topping. Modern readers may be confused by the term “pie” in the name, as this recipe is more of a baked savory dish that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even dinner.

This recipe was by the recipe box owner’s assumed sister, Grace Nelson.

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Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie

Food History

The idea of a savory pie dates back centuries, with various forms of meat, cheese, and vegetable pies appearing in cuisines around the world. However, this recipe fits more into the category of quiche or an open-faced savory tart. Zucchini, often associated with summer and early fall, is a versatile vegetable that became increasingly popular in American kitchens during the mid-20th century, when it was embraced for its mild flavor and ability to pair well with different ingredients.

The addition of ham and Swiss cheese makes this dish feel more like a quiche, while the crumb topping adds a crunchy contrast to the soft filling. Savory pies like this were especially popular in the 1970s and 1980s as they were often featured in community cookbooks or served at potlucks, where home cooks could showcase their creativity with versatile ingredients.

Timeline

• 18th Century: Savory pies filled with meats and vegetables are common across Europe, often served as hearty meals for working families.
• Mid-20th Century: Quiche Lorraine and other savory pies become popular in American cuisine, leading to variations like this zucchini and ham version.
• Present Day: While sweet pies remain dominant in American culture, savory pies and quiches continue to be popular for brunches and light meals, particularly in the summer months when zucchini is abundant.

Recipe Discussion

This Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie is a savory dish that combines cooked zucchini, onions, garlic, ham, and Swiss cheese with sour cream, dill, and seasonings, all baked inside a flaky pie crust. The filling is rich and creamy, thanks to the sour cream and cheese, while the zucchini and ham provide texture and flavor.

Once the filling is prepared and spooned into the pre-baked pie shell, a crumb topping made with breadcrumbs, melted margarine, and Parmesan cheese is sprinkled around the edges, creating a flavorful crust that contrasts with the soft filling. After baking, the pie should be left to stand for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the filling to set.

The pie can be garnished with tomato wedges and parsley, adding a fresh and colorful touch to the dish. It’s a versatile recipe that could be served as the main course for a light lunch or as a side dish at a larger gathering.

Preparation Tips

• Crust: To ensure a crisp base, pre-bake the pie shell before adding the filling. This step prevents the crust from becoming soggy as the pie bakes.
• Sautéing the Vegetables: When sautéing the zucchini, onions, and garlic, cook them until they are tender but still crisp. Overcooking the vegetables can lead to a mushy texture in the pie.
• Balancing Liquids: Zucchini tends to release moisture as it cooks, so be careful not to overfill the pie shell with liquid. The sour cream helps balance the moisture, but if the mixture seems too wet, reduce the amount of sour cream slightly.

Recommended Kitchen Items

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• Pie Dish: A 10-inch pie dish is perfect for this recipe, ensuring an even bake and room for the crumb topping around the edge.
• Nonstick Skillet: A good nonstick skillet is essential for sautéing the vegetables, allowing for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Pastry Blender: Use a pastry blender to combine the breadcrumbs and melted margarine for the topping, ensuring the mixture is crumbly and evenly distributed.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch: Serve this savory pie at a brunch alongside a fresh green salad and fruit for a well-rounded meal.
• Potluck Dish: Bring this pie to a potluck or family gathering; its hearty filling and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser.
• Light Dinner: Pair the pie with roasted vegetables or a soup for a light yet satisfying dinner.

More Vintage Recipes

We have lots of recipes on the site that may be of interest to you. Use the links below to view recipes similar to this Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie With Crumb Topping recipe.

• Casserole Recipes
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• Grace Nelson’s Recipes
• Recipes With Ham
• Recipes With Swiss CheeseRecipes With Zucchini

A Savory Twist on Pie

This Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie is a savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling, hearty ham, and crunchy crumb topping, it’s a delicious take on the traditional quiche or savory tart. Whether served at brunch, as part of a family meal, or brought to a potluck, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust.

Vintage Recipe Box 015

There are many fun recipes to read in the box, including this recipe for Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie With Crumb Topping. Click here to read the history of VRP015 – Wood Box.

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Zucchini Ham Cheese Pie With Crumb Topping Recipe