Description
Mediterranean Veggie Quiche
Ingredients
1 store-bought or homemade pie crust
4 large eggs
1 cup milk (or half-and-half for creaminess)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata olives
1 cup fresh spinach leaves
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges.
Sauté Spinach:
Lightly sauté spinach in a non-stick pan for 2 minutes, just until wilted. Set aside.
Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Quiche:
Evenly spread sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onions, and feta cheese over the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly golden.
Serve:
Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
#MediterraneanQuiche #VegetarianBrunch #SpinachAndFeta #ComfortFood #QuicheLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. Blind bake your crust for 5-7 minutes to prevent sogginess; simply line it with parchment and fill with pie weights or dried beans. While it bakes, whisk the eggs and milk vigorously for at least 90 seconds until completely homogenous and slightly frothy. This incorporates air for a lighter texture. When assembling, layer the spinach and onions first, followed by the feta, tomatoes, and olives. Pour the egg mixture slowly to allow it to seep through the layers evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This quiche is incredibly versatile. For a complete brunch, serve with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and a side of fresh fruit. It also makes an excellent packed lunch; a slice travels well and can be enjoyed cold. For a heartier dinner, pair it with a bowl of roasted red pepper soup or a lentil salad. Garnish individual slices with a dollop of tzatziki or a sprinkle of fresh dill.
How-to Summary
In short: pre-bake the crust briefly, whisk eggs and milk until frothy, layer veggies and cheese in the crust, pour over the egg mixture, and bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes until set. Let it rest before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Absolutely. Bake it fully, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven to restore texture.
What can I use instead of feta? Goat cheese or a crumbled vegan feta are excellent substitutes that maintain the tangy profile.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked? The center should be just set. Gently jiggle the pan; if the middle has a slight wobble but isn’t liquid, it’s done. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but you must thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess water to prevent a soggy crust.
Is half-and-half necessary? No, but it creates a richer, creamier custard. Whole milk works perfectly, and for a lighter version, 2% milk is fine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soggy Bottom Crust: Avoid this by pre-baking (blind baking) the crust and ensuring all vegetables are dry.
- Overcooking: This leads to a rubbery texture. Remove the quiche as soon as the center is set.
- Undermixing the Custard: Whisk the egg and milk mixture thoroughly for a uniform, tender texture.
- Overfilling the Crust: Pour the egg mixture slowly, leaving about 1/4-inch space from the rim to prevent spills in the oven.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Veggie Quiche is a celebration of vibrant flavors and simple techniques. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any meal of the day. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a quiche with a flaky crust, creamy custard, and bursts of savory flavor in every bite. It’s a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create something truly special. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!