Spinach Parmesan Quiche: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Spinach Parmesan Quiche: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly versatile and utterly delicious dish! Have you ever craved something savory, comforting, and elegant all at once? This quiche delivers on all fronts, making it perfect for a sophisticated brunch, a light lunch, or even a satisfying dinner. It’s so good, you might just find yourself making it every week!

Quiche, with its rich history rooted in medieval Germany (where it originated as “Kuchen,” meaning cake), has evolved into a beloved staple in French cuisine and beyond. The classic quiche Lorraine, featuring bacon and cheese, paved the way for countless variations, each showcasing the unique flavors of its ingredients. Our Spinach Parmesan Quiche pays homage to this tradition while adding a vibrant, fresh twist.

What makes this particular quiche so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of creamy custard, earthy spinach, and the salty, nutty bite of Parmesan cheese. The flaky crust provides a delightful textural contrast, making each bite a symphony of flavors and sensations. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Spinach Parmesan Quiche recipe is guaranteed to impress. The convenience of preparing it ahead of time also makes it a winner for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining. Get ready to experience quiche perfection!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water
• For the Filling:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Preparing the Crust:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see small pieces of butter throughout. This is crucial for a flaky crust!
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten and result in a tough crust.
4. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to roll out. I usually chill it for an hour, if I have the time.
5. After chilling, lightly flour a clean work surface. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate.
7. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge of the pie plate. You can use a knife or kitchen shears for this.
8. Crimp the edges of the crust to create a decorative border. There are many ways to do this – you can use a fork to press the edges, or you can pinch the dough between your fingers to create a scalloped effect. Get creative!
9. Prick the bottom of the crust several times with a fork. This will prevent the crust from puffing up during baking.
10. Place the crust in the freezer for 15 minutes. This helps the crust retain its shape during the blind baking process.

Blind Baking the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the crust from the freezer. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. This will weigh down the crust and prevent it from puffing up.
3. Bake the crust for 20 minutes.
4. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights. Return the crust to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Preparing the Spinach Filling:

1. While the crust is cooling, prepare the spinach filling. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Season the spinach mixture with salt and pepper.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly.
7. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, and nutmeg.
8. Stir in 3/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for topping the quiche.
9. Add the cooled spinach mixture to the egg mixture and stir to combine.

Assembling and Baking the Quiche:

1. Pour the spinach filling into the cooled, pre-baked crust.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top of the filling.
3. Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
4. Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set completely and prevents it from being too runny.

Tips for the Perfect Quiche:

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and ice water are essential for a flaky crust.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten and results in a tough crust.
• Blind bake the crust: Blind baking ensures that the crust is fully cooked and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Cool the spinach mixture: Adding hot spinach to the egg mixture can cause the eggs to scramble.
• Let the quiche cool before slicing: Cooling allows the filling to set completely and prevents it from being too runny.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Use different cheeses: You can use different cheeses in the filling, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or cheddar.
• Add meat: You can add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the filling.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free milk and cream alternative for the filling.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature.
• Serve with a side salad or fresh fruit.
• Quiche is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• It’s also great for potlucks and parties.

This Spinach Parmesan Quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Spinach Parmesan Quiche isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! From the flaky, buttery crust to the creamy, savory filling bursting with fresh spinach and the nutty tang of Parmesan, every bite is a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. I know you might be thinking, “Another quiche recipe?” But trust me, this one is different. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor profile, it’s incredibly versatile. It’s elegant enough for a brunch gathering with friends, yet simple enough for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens! Even the pickiest eaters in your family will be reaching for seconds. The combination of the rich Parmesan cheese and the earthy spinach creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. And let’s not forget how easy it is to customize!

Looking for serving suggestions? This Spinach Parmesan Quiche is delicious served warm, at room temperature, or even cold the next day (if there are any leftovers!). For brunch, pair it with a light salad and a mimosa for the ultimate weekend treat. For dinner, serve it alongside a hearty soup or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Want to get creative? Feel free to experiment with variations! Add some crumbled bacon or ham for a smoky twist. Sauté some mushrooms or onions for an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat. You could even swap out the Parmesan for Gruyere or Fontina cheese for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different type of crust, like a gluten-free option or even a sweet potato crust for a unique and healthy twist.

I truly believe this Spinach Parmesan Quiche will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the quiche a day in advance and simply bake it before serving, saving you valuable time and effort.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that you’ll love. Happy baking!