Description
Herb-Infused Spinach and Cheese Quiche
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pie crust
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Fit the crust into a pie dish.
Sauté spinach and spread it in the crust with Parmesan and Gruyère.
Whisk eggs, cream, and thyme, then pour over the filling.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Herbs make all the difference!
Who’s ready to try this aromatic recipe?
#HerbSpinachQuiche
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect quiche. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, place your pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the edges and fluting the rim. For the filling, heat a small pan over medium heat with a teaspoon of olive oil. Add the fresh spinach and sauté just until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the spinach to a paper towel-lined plate and gently press to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy crust. Evenly spread the wilted spinach across the bottom of the pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan and Gruyère cheese over the spinach.
In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk the four large eggs until uniform. Add the heavy cream and dried thyme, then whisk again until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined. Slowly pour this custard mixture over the spinach and cheese in the crust. Carefully transfer the filled dish to the preheated oven’s center rack.
Serving Suggestions
This quiche is wonderfully versatile. Serve a warm slice alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for a complete lunch. For a hearty brunch, pair it with roasted potatoes or fresh fruit. It’s also excellent at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks. Garnish individual slices with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or a few extra spinach leaves for a beautiful presentation.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare pie crust in dish. Sauté and drain spinach, then layer with cheeses in crust. Whisk eggs, cream, and thyme into a custard and pour over filling. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. While Parmesan and Gruyère offer a nutty flavor, Swiss, cheddar, or feta are excellent substitutes that will change the profile deliciously.
Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Yes. You can fully assemble the quiche, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How do I know when the quiche is done baking? The quiche is ready when the edges are set and puffed, and the center jiggles only slightly when gently shaken. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Definitely. Use one tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves in place of the dried. Other fresh herbs like rosemary or tarragon would also work beautifully.
How should I store leftovers? Cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven or toaster oven to maintain texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: First, do not skip draining the sautéed spinach, as excess water will create a soggy bottom crust. Second, do not over-whisk the custard mixture to the point of creating lots of foam, as this can affect texture. Third, avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry, rubbery quiche. Finally, let the quiche rest for at least 10 minutes after baking; this allows it to set properly for clean slices.
Conclusion
This Herb-Infused Spinach and Cheese Quiche is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care, create an elegant and satisfying dish. The blend of savory cheeses, earthy spinach, and aromatic thyme baked into a creamy custard is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Mastering this recipe provides a foundational skill for countless variations. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful quiche as much as we enjoy sharing the recipe.