This Spinach and Cheese Quiche is a delightful combination of creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and flaky pastry. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this quiche is simple to make and sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Pastry Crust:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3–4 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups (150g) fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Pastry Crust:
- In a bowl, mix 1½ cups flour and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Add ½ cup cold butter and rub with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add 3–4 tablespoons of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Crust for Baking:
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch (23cm) pie or tart pan.
- Trim the edges and pierce the bottom with a fork.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, and bake for another 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the Quiche:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup milk, ½ cup cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir in the spinach mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake the Quiche:
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the quiche cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup for a comforting dinner.
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or fresh lemonade.
Cooking Tips
- Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available, but make sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Blind baking the crust prevents it from getting soggy.
- Add a sprinkle of nutmeg for a subtle depth of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: High in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
- Cheese: Source of calcium and flavor.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free crust or almond flour crust.
- Nut-Free: Yes
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile and can be enjoyed for any meal.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
- The flaky crust and creamy filling are a perfect match.
- A crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.
Conclusion
Spinach and Cheese Quiche is a timeless dish that combines simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or preparing a family meal, this quiche delivers a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use store-bought pastry? Yes, a premade pie crust works well for convenience.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- What other cheeses work well? Cheddar, Gruyere, or feta are great substitutes.
- Can I make it ahead? Yes, bake it in advance and reheat before serving.
- How do I prevent a soggy crust? Blind bake the crust before adding the filling.
- Can I use dairy-free alternatives? Yes, substitute plant-based milk, cream, and cheese.
- Is frozen spinach okay to use? Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess water.
- How do I know the quiche is done? The center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
- Can I make mini quiches? Yes, use a muffin tin and adjust the baking time to 15–20 minutes.
- How long does it last in the fridge? Up to 3 days in an airtight container.