Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe
If you have been searching for a delightful brunch or light dinner idea, this Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. It features a tender, flaky pie crust loaded with tender spinach, sweet sautéed onions, and a rich custard filling made luxurious with Swiss or Gruyère cheese. The combination of fresh greens and creamy eggs creates a comforting yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to company brunches. This quiche not only looks beautiful with its golden top but also bursts with savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavors, delivering perfect texture, and adding appealing color to your Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe.
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch): A convenient, flaky base that provides just the right crispness and holds all the filling beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps to sauté the onions without overpowering the delicate spinach.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped: The star green ingredient, lending vibrant color and a mild, fresh earthiness.
- 4 large eggs: The essential binding agent, giving the quiche its custardy texture.
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream: Enriches the egg base to make it silky and smooth.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese: Melted cheese adds a nutty, savory kick and luscious creaminess.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Brings a gentle warmth and subtle complexity.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional): A classic spice that subtly lifts and complements the creamy custard.
How to Make Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready. Place your pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently to fit snugly without stretching. This simple step sets the foundation for that irresistibly crispy, buttery base that holds all the delicious fillings.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Spinach
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. This slow cooking draws out its natural sugars for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes. Next, toss in the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Removing excess moisture here is key to preventing a soggy quiche filling.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half or heavy cream until smooth. Add salt, black pepper, and the optional ground nutmeg, whisking again. This silky custard mixture will become the luscious heart of your Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe, enveloping the fillings in creamy goodness.
Step 4: Layer the Fillings
Spread the cooled spinach and onion mixture evenly over the pie crust. Then sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese across the top, creating a glorious cheesy layer that bubbles with flavor when baked. Finally, pour the egg custard gently over everything, allowing it to seep into every nook and cranny.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re aiming for a custard that is fully set but still tender inside, with a golden-brown top that invites you to dig in. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes to firm up for cleaner slices and optimum flavor.
How to Serve Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan can brighten the appearance and add an extra layer of flavor to your quiche. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a small dollop of crème fraîche also complements its richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with simple side salads — think peppery arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette or crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a light vegetable soup also make excellent companions for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch parties or special occasions, serve your quiche in individual ramekins or miniature tart pans for charming, personalized portions. Alternatively, slice it into wedges and arrange on a rustic wooden board with fresh fruit, nuts, and assorted cheeses for an inviting spread that encourages sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover slices of your Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Covering the quiche well helps maintain its moisture and keeps it tasting fresh when you reheat it later.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save extra portions, quiche freezes wonderfully. Wrap whole quiches or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them in the freezer for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll always have a tasty option ready for busy days or surprise guests.
Reheating
To bring your quiche back to life, warm it gently in a 325°F (163°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. This method preserves the crisp crust and creamy interior better than microwaving, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This helps keep the quiche from becoming watery and ensures the filling sets nicely.
What types of cheese work best in this quiche?
Swiss and Gruyère are classic choices because of their nutty and mild flavors that melt beautifully. However, you can experiment with cheddar, fontina, or even goat cheese depending on your preference for sharper or creamier cheeses.
Is it possible to make this quiche dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the half-and-half or heavy cream with coconut or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture might vary slightly, but the savory flavors will still shine through.
How long does the quiche need to cool before serving?
About 10 minutes of cooling is ideal. This resting time allows the custard to set further, making it easier to slice without losing its shape or texture.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins to this recipe?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or crumbled bacon or cooked sausage can be fantastic additions. Just be mindful of moisture content and adjust seasoning accordingly for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe has been a cherished staple in my kitchen for its ease, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, it’s incredibly satisfying, comforting, and elegant all at once. I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of each creamy, cheesy bite baked into this timeless classic. Give it a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!
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Savory Spinach Quiche Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Spinach Quiche is a delicious and easy-to-make savory pie featuring a flaky pre-made crust filled with sautéed spinach and onions combined with a rich egg and cream custard, topped with flavorful Swiss or Gruyère cheese. Baked until golden brown and perfectly set, it makes for a perfect brunch, lunch, or light dinner option.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside.
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or heavy cream), salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble Quiche: Spread the sautéed spinach and onion mixture evenly over the prepared pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese evenly on top of the vegetables.
- Add Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the whisked egg and cream mixture over the filling and cheese, ensuring it spreads evenly throughout the crust.
- Bake: Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown when gently tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set fully and makes slicing cleaner.
Notes
- You can substitute Swiss or Gruyère cheese with other melting cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella if preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy milk alternative and omit or replace cheese with dairy-free options.
- Fresh spinach is recommended, but you can use frozen spinach if thoroughly drained and pressed to remove excess water.
- Adding the optional nutmeg enhances the depth of flavor but can be omitted if desired.
- Letting the quiche cool before slicing ensures cleaner slices and better texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
