Quiche is a classic party food that deserves a foolproof recipe, especially with all the Spring holidays approaching. This dish can easily turn from delicious to disastrous if not made correctly, with common issues like a crumbly crust and unstructured fillings. But don’t worry! I’m here to arm you with a fantastic quiche recipe that guarantees a great-tasting result every time. The best part? You can prepare it a day in advance, making it the ideal choice for stress-free entertaining.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ cup (75g) diced white onion
- 6 oz (170g) fresh spinach
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup (50g) grated Gruyere cheese
Directions
- Make the Crust:
- In a food processor, combine flour and salt. Pulse lightly.
- Add cubed butter, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Whisk the egg and add it along with cold water while pulsing until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough, fit it into a tart pan, and trim the edges. Freeze for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sauté until translucent.
- Add spinach and sauté until wilted. Set aside to cool.
- Combine the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne (or nutmeg).
- Roughly chop the cooled spinach mixture and stir it into the egg mixture along with the grated cheese.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the filling into the frozen crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown. If browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil.
- Serve:
- Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, paired with a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad or a light vinaigrette dressing.
- For a brunch spread, offer alongside fresh fruit or pastries.
Cooking Tips
- Use Heavy Cream: This adds richness and structure, preventing a wobbly quiche.
- Blind Baking Alternative: Freezing the crust helps maintain its shape without the hassle of blind baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, providing essential nutrients.
- Eggs are a great source of protein, promoting satiety and muscle health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian (can be made gluten-free using a suitable crust).
Nutritional Facts (per slice, serves 8)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 23g
Storage
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s an elegant dish perfect for gatherings that can be made ahead of time.
- The flavor combinations are endless; customize with your favorite ingredients!
Conclusion
This quiche recipe is a delightful addition to any Spring gathering. With its flaky crust and flavorful filling, it’s bound to impress your guests. Whether served at brunch, lunch, or dinner, it’s a versatile dish that pleases everyone. I hope you try this recipe and enjoy the ease of making a quiche that looks as good as it tastes!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a store-bought crust?
- Yes, a deep-dish store-bought pie crust works well.
- What fillings can I use?
- Feel free to customize with vegetables, meats, or different cheeses!
- Can I freeze quiche?
- Yes, bake and cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- How do I know when the quiche is done?
- It should be golden brown and not jiggle in the center.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- Substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy cheese.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Absolutely! It keeps well and can be reheated easily.
- What herbs can I add for more flavor?
- Fresh herbs like thyme or basil work wonderfully.
- Can I make mini quiches?
- Yes, use a muffin tin to create individual servings.
- What can I serve with quiche?
- Pair it with a salad, roasted veggies, or fresh fruit.
- How long does it take to prepare?
- The total time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, including prep and cook time.