There’s something undeniably comforting about sinking your fork into a warm, flaky slice of quiche-its golden crust giving way to a rich, savory filling that dances on your taste buds. Among the many variations that have won hearts worldwide, the spinach and cheese quiche stands out as a timeless brunch favorite. Combining vibrant, nutritious spinach with creamy, melted cheese, this delightful dish strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent.
Whether you’re hosting a leisurely weekend gathering or simply craving a satisfying meal to start your day, the savory spinach and cheese quiche promises a flavorful culinary experience that’s as versatile as it is indeed inviting. Join us as we explore the charms of this classic dish, uncovering tips and tricks to make your next brunch truly unforgettable.
Savory Spinach & Cheese quiche: A Perfect Brunch Delight
Embark on a culinary journey with this Savory Spinach & Cheese Quiche that delivers a harmonious blend of crisp,flaky crust,fresh vibrant spinach,and rich,melty cheeses. Originating from classic French kitchens, this quiche has evolved into a beloved brunch staple worldwide. Its comforting custard filling and buttery base make it the ultimate expression of savory indulgence, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or elegant gatherings.
prep and Cook time
- Readiness: 30 minutes
- Chilling: 1 hour
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 to 8 elegantly sized slices
Difficulty Level
Medium – perfect for confident beginners ready to refine pastry skills and learn custard mastery.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice-cold water
- For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and drained
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
Instructions
- make the crust: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sifted flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining.This ensures a tender, flaky texture.
- Slowly add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring with a fork until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
- Shape the dough into a flat disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to relax the gluten and chill the butter.
- Sauté the spinach filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, just 1 minute more.
- Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted and any moisture evaporates. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat your oven: to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pastry dough from the fridge and roll out on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Transfer it gently into a 9-inch tart or pie pan, pressing to fit and trimming the edges.
- Blind bake the crust: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes,then carefully remove weights and parchment,bake 5 more minutes until golden and set. this prevents sogginess from the custard filling.
- Assemble the quiche: Evenly spread the sautéed spinach mixture in the crust. Sprinkle shredded Gruyère and crumbled feta over the filling.
- Pour the egg custard mixture slowly over the filling, allowing it to evenly saturate the spinach and cheese.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.
- Let the quiche cool for at least 15 minutes to help the custard firm up for perfect slicing.
Tips for Success
- Chill your ingredients: Keeping the butter and water cold is essential to achieve that coveted flaky quiche crust.
- Don’t skip blind baking: It prevents a soggy bottom and ensures your crust stays crisp beneath the luscious filling.
- cheese options: Substitute Gruyère with aged cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor spectrum. Goat cheese can add a tangy creaminess.
- Spinach prep: Sautéing all the moisture out of spinach helps prevent a watery quiche.
- Make ahead: Prepare crust and filling a day in advance. Refrigerate separately and assemble just before baking to save time.
Serving Suggestions for an Elegant Brunch spread
present slices of this Savory Spinach & Cheese Quiche warm or at room temperature on a rustic wooden board or delicate china plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or microgreens to add a pop of color. serve alongside a crisp mixed green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette and fresh fruit, such as juicy berries or melon slices. For drinks, pair beautifully with a chilled glass of sparkling Prosecco or a fragrant floral herbal tea to elevate the experience.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
Discover other quiche variations and experiment with different fillings to keep your brunch table exciting. For more on the health benefits of incorporating fresh spinach into your diet, visit Healthline’s detailed guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Savory Spinach & Cheese Quiche – A Perfect Brunch Delight
Q1: What makes spinach and cheese quiche such a beloved brunch dish?
A1: Spinach and cheese quiche strikes the perfect balance between hearty and light, combining earthy greens with creamy, melted cheese nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s versatile, vegetarian-friendly, and elegant enough to impress guests while being simple enough for a cozy weekend breakfast.
Q2: can you explain the key ingredients that define this quiche?
A2: Absolutely! The foundation is fresh spinach, wich provides vibrant color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Complementing it is a blend of cheeses-commonly Gruyère, cheddar, or feta-that add richness and tang.Eggs and cream create the silky custard that binds everything, while the pie crust offers that irresistible crunch and structure.
Q3: How do you achieve the perfect texture in the quiche custard?
A3: The secret lies in the delicate balance of eggs and dairy. Too many eggs, and the quiche becomes rubbery; too much cream or milk, and it’s overly soft and runny. Typically, a ratio of about 3-4 eggs to one cup of cream or milk yields a smooth, luscious custard that sets beautifully while staying tender.
Q4: What tips are essential for preparing the crust?
A4: For a truly flaky crust, keep your butter cold and work quickly to prevent it from warming.Blind bake the crust briefly before adding the filling-this avoids sogginess and ensures a crisp base. Also, don’t forget to prick the bottom with a fork or use pie weights to keep it flat.
Q5: Is it possible to customize the quiche to dietary preferences?
A5: Definitely! For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free pie crust. Vegans can substitute eggs with silken tofu and use plant-based cheeses, though the texture will differ slightly. Feel free to add herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor, or swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for variation.
Q6: How long can you store leftover quiche, and what’s the best way to reheat it?
A6: Leftover quiche keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, wrapped tightly to maintain moisture. To reheat, bake it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on top. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.
Q7: What makes this quiche particularly suitable for brunch occasions?
A7: It’s a stellar crowd-pleaser that can be prepared ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy company and conversation. Quiche pairs beautifully with light salads, fresh fruit, and a variety of breakfast beverages-from mimosas to herbal teas-making it as socially inviting as it is flavorful.
Whether you’re hosting a leisurely weekend brunch or seeking an elegant yet approachable dish, the savory spinach and cheese quiche is a timeless classic that delivers comfort and charm on every plate.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re hosting a leisurely weekend brunch or simply craving a comforting slice of something savory, the spinach and cheese quiche stands out as an irresistible choice. Its flaky crust, tender filling, and harmonious blend of flavors deliver both nourishment and delight in every bite. By mastering this classic recipe, you not only create a dish that’s versatile and satisfying but also invite warmth and sophistication to your table. So next time you gather with friends or family,let this savory quiche be the centerpiece that turns a simple meal into an unforgettable brunch experience.
