Spinach and Gruyère Quiche with Flaky Homemade Crust

This Spinach and Gruyère Quiche features a flaky homemade crust filled with a rich and creamy spinach and cheese filling. With a delicate balance of savory flavors from fresh spinach, sharp Gruyère, and a creamy egg custard, this quiche is a perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Paired with a light salad or enjoyed on its own, it’s a versatile and satisfying option for any meal.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour (45-50 minutes for baking)
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

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, washed and chopped
  • 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 Gruyère cheese

Directions:

  • Make the Crust:
    1. In a food processor, combine flour and salt. Pulse lightly.
    2. Add cubed butter, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
    3. Whisk the egg and add it to the processor along with the cold water. Pulse until a dough forms.
    4. Roll out the dough, fit it into a tart pan, and trim the edges. Freeze for 20 minutes.
  • Prepare the Filling:
    1. In a sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat.
    2. Add the diced onion, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sauté until translucent.
    3. Add spinach and sauté until wilted. Set aside to cool.
  • Combine the Egg Mixture:
    1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne (or nutmeg).
    2. Roughly chop the cooled spinach mixture and stir it into the egg mixture along with the grated cheese.
  • Assemble and Bake:
    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. 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:
    1. Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, paired with a fresh salad or side of your choice.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
  • Pair with roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
  • Enjoy with a side of crisp bacon or sausages for a heartier brunch.
  • Top with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra richness.
  • Serve with fresh fruit on the side for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Spinach and Gruyère Quiche is a perfect balance of textures, with a buttery, flaky crust and a creamy, savory filling. The addition of spinach and Gruyère brings both nutrition and a sophisticated flavor that will delight your taste buds. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Cooking Tips:

  • For a crispier crust, pre-bake it for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
  • If you don’t have Gruyère cheese, you can substitute with Swiss cheese or a mild cheddar.
  • To make the quiche ahead of time, assemble the crust and filling, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Spinach provides a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate.
  • Gruyère cheese offers calcium and protein to help support bone health.
  • Eggs and heavy cream add a rich source of protein and healthy fats for energy.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian
  • Can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbs: 20g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • You can also freeze the quiche for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Conclusion:
This Spinach and Gruyère Quiche is a rich, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. With a buttery homemade crust and creamy spinach filling, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy brunch or a dinner party. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!