Quiche is a versatile and elegant dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. With its flaky, buttery crust and creamy filling packed with the goodness of spinach, this Spinach Quiche recipe will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something savory, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making this delightful quiche.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Chill Time (for crust): 30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
For the Filling:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or your choice)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the Egg: Lightly beat the egg and add it to the mixture. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie pan. Transfer it to a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish, trimming the edges as needed. Prick the bottom with a fork.
- Blind Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Combine Ingredients: Spread the cooked spinach mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bake the Quiche
- Bake: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients such as cooked bacon, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Prevent Soggy Crust: Ensure the crust is fully baked and slightly golden before adding the filling.
- Make Ahead: The quiche can be prepared a day in advance and reheated in the oven before serving.
This homemade Spinach Quiche combines a flaky crust with a savory and creamy filling, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Its straightforward preparation and delightful taste make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Whether enjoyed as a quick weekday meal or a show-stopping brunch centerpiece, this quiche is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Give it a try and savor every bite!