This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Quiche is a savory delight, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The flaky puff pastry crust pairs beautifully with the creamy egg filling, vibrant spinach, and tangy feta cheese. It’s an elegant yet simple dish that’s sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Rest Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
- Frozen Puff Pastry: 1 sheet, thawed
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Shallots: 2, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh Baby Spinach: 5 ounces (or 10 ounces frozen, thawed and drained)
- Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon Zest: 2 teaspoons (from about 1 lemon)
- Eggs: 6 large
- Milk or Half & Half: 1 cup
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9″ pie pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Place a piece of parchment paper on a large cutting board and carefully unfold the thawed puff pastry.
- Use a rolling pin to smooth out the pastry, elongating one end slightly to fit the 9″ pie pan.
- Transfer the pastry to the prepared pan, trimming the edges to fit. Use a fork to poke several holes in the bottom of the pastry and crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers. Place the pan in the refrigerator to keep the pastry cold.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add fresh spinach and cook, tossing continuously, until wilted (2-3 minutes). Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Quiche
- Remove the prepared puff pastry shell from the refrigerator.
- Evenly distribute the spinach mixture over the bottom of the pastry shell.
- Pour the egg mixture on top and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Quiche
- Place the pie pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any overflow. Loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the quiche is set (with a slight jiggle in the center) and the crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Let the quiche rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad for a light meal.
- Pair with roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit platter for brunch.
- Enjoy alongside a refreshing glass of orange juice or sparkling water.
Cooking Tips
- Keep the puff pastry cold to ensure a flaky texture.
- If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the quiche.
- Pre-cook the spinach mixture to ensure the filling doesn’t become watery.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach: High in vitamins A and C, and a great source of iron.
- Eggs: Rich in protein and essential nutrients like choline.
- Feta Cheese: Adds calcium and a tangy flavor.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting feta and milk with plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- This quiche is not ideal for freezing as the puff pastry may lose its texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant yet simple to prepare.
- A perfect balance of creamy, flaky, and savory flavors.
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite vegetables and cheeses.
- Great for any time of day—breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Its buttery, flaky crust and rich, savory filling make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Try this recipe today and savor the delightful combination of textures and flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or ricotta are excellent substitutes for feta. - Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and bake the quiche, then reheat it in the oven before serving. - Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before using. - How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Keep the pastry cold and pre-cook the filling ingredients to remove excess moisture. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus make great additions. - What can I use instead of puff pastry?
A pie crust or phyllo dough can be used as alternatives. - How do I know when the quiche is done?
The center should be set with a slight jiggle, and the crust should be golden brown. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. - What size pie pan should I use?
A 9-inch pie pan is ideal for this recipe. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.