Spinach and Cheese Quiche

Spinach and Cheese Quiche Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spinach and cheese quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. This savory pie is filled with a creamy mixture of eggs, spinach, onions, and cheese, all baked in a flaky pie crust. It is a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal and can be customized with different types of cheese and herbs to suit your taste preferences.

History

Quiche originated in France and is a popular dish in French cuisine. It is believed to have been created in the region of Lorraine, hence the name "quiche Lorraine." Traditionally, quiche Lorraine is made with a filling of eggs, cream, and bacon or ham, but over the years, many variations of quiche have been developed, including spinach and cheese quiche.

Ingredients

1 (9 inches) refrigerated pie crust
3 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced and quartered
1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained well
8 eggs
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried basil
2 tbsp grated pecorino romano cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
salt and ground black pepper to taste

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring the pie crust to room temperature.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until the onion becomes transparent, about 5 minutes.
Combine the spinach with the onion. Cover the skillet, turn off the heat, and set aside.
Unroll the crust and press it to fit into a 9-inch pie plate.
Trim the edges.
Beat the eggs in a large bowl until they are light colored and frothy.
Add the garlic, thyme, basil, cheeses, and spinach mixture. Stir until well blended.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Pour the spinach mixture into the prepared pie crust.
Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and an inserted toothpick comes out clean, about 50 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version of the quiche.
Use different types of cheese, such as feta, cheddar, or Swiss, to change up the flavor profile.
Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or tomatoes for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach after thawing to prevent the quiche from becoming watery.

- Pre-baking the pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling will help prevent a soggy bottom crust.

- Be sure to season the quiche filling well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish.

- Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure that it sets properly and holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach and cheese quiche can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature. It pairs well with a side salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the eggs until light and frothy will help create a light and fluffy texture in the quiche.

- Pre-cooking the onions and spinach before adding them to the filling will ensure that they are fully cooked and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use a homemade pie crust instead of a store-bought one for a more rustic touch.

- Substitute fresh spinach for frozen if desired, but be sure to cook it down before adding it to the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

Spinach and cheese quiche can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated overnight before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the quiche with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve slices on a platter with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Spinach and cheese quiche pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes nicely with a light and refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spinach and cheese quiche contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spinach and cheese quiche contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spinach and cheese quiche contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of spinach and cheese quiche contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, dairy (cheese), and wheat (pie crust), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Spinach and cheese quiche is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the spinach.

Summary

Spinach and cheese quiche is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any meal of the day. With a flaky pie crust, creamy filling, and flavorful combination of spinach, onions, and cheese, this quiche is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy it on its own or paired with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Spinach and Cheese Quiche. It was many years ago, when I was just a young woman learning to cook for my growing family. I had always enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and flavors, but this recipe was something special. It was passed down to me by a dear friend who had learned it from her own grandmother, and I knew from the moment I saw the ingredients list that it was going to be a hit with my family.

The first time I made the quiche, I remember carefully following the instructions, chopping the spinach and grating the cheese with care. As the quiche baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with the savory aroma of cheese and herbs, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in my culinary creation. When I finally pulled the quiche out of the oven and sliced into it, revealing the creamy, cheesy filling nestled in a flaky crust, I knew I had found a new favorite dish.

Over the years, I have made this Spinach and Cheese Quiche countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of nutmeg or a handful of chopped mushrooms to the filling, or swap out the spinach for kale or Swiss chard. But no matter how I choose to customize the recipe, the basic elements remain the same: a buttery crust, a rich custard filling, and a generous amount of cheese.

I have shared this recipe with many friends and family members over the years, and it has become a staple at potlucks, brunches, and holiday gatherings. I love watching the faces of my loved ones light up as they take their first bite of the quiche, savoring the creamy, cheesy goodness that I have come to associate with comfort and home.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe is from a family reunion several years ago. I had spent the entire morning in the kitchen, preparing a feast for my relatives who had traveled from near and far to gather together. As the Spinach and Cheese Quiche baked in the oven, I could hear the chatter and laughter of my family members drifting in from the backyard, where they were gathered around picnic tables laden with food and drink.

When I finally set the quiche on the table, it was met with a chorus of oohs and ahhs. My young granddaughter, who had always been a picky eater, tentatively took a small slice of the quiche and popped it into her mouth. Her eyes widened in surprise, and before I knew it, she was asking for seconds. It was a proud moment for me, knowing that I had managed to create a dish that even the pickiest of eaters could enjoy.

As the years have passed, and my family has grown and changed, the Spinach and Cheese Quiche has remained a constant in my kitchen. It is a recipe that never fails to bring joy and comfort to those who taste it, and I am grateful to have stumbled upon it all those years ago. I may not know where this recipe originated from, or who first thought to combine spinach and cheese in a flaky crust, but I am thankful for the opportunity to carry on the tradition and share it with those I love.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious dish to serve to your own family and friends, I urge you to give this Spinach and Cheese Quiche a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just be sure to savor each bite, knowing that it is the result of years of trial and error, love and dedication. Enjoy!