Spinach & Smoked Cheddar Quiche
Introduction
Spinach & Smoked Cheddar Quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With a creamy filling and a crispy crust, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together the rich flavors of smoked cheddar and fresh spinach. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Why Make This Recipe
This quiche is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while satisfying your cheese cravings. The combination of spinach and smoked cheddar adds a unique twist to the traditional quiche. It’s an excellent option for meal prep or serving at brunch gatherings, as it tastes wonderful both warm and at room temperature.
How to Make Spinach & Smoked Cheddar Quiche
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 1/2 cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts. Drain any excess liquid.
- Place the pie crust in a quiche or pie pan. Spread the spinach and onion mixture evenly in the crust, then sprinkle the shredded smoked cheddar cheese on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the filling in the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing. It is perfect served warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Spinach & Smoked Cheddar Quiche
You can serve this quiche as a main dish or as part of a brunch spread. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad or lightly dressed greens for a complete meal. Cutting it into wedges makes for easy serving and sharing.
How to Store Spinach & Smoked Cheddar Quiche
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The quiche will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Spinach & Smoked Cheddar Quiche
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the pie crust for 5-10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- To save time, you can use a store-bought pie crust, or make your own from scratch if you prefer.
Variation
You can easily switch the smoked cheddar for another type of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile. Adding cooked bacon or ham can also make it heartier.
FAQs
1. Can I make quiche in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the quiche a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just adjust the baking time if it’s going into the oven chilled.
2. Can I freeze quiche?
Absolutely! Allow the quiche to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. What can I serve with quiche?
Quiche pairs well with a simple green salad, fresh fruit, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or sour cream to enhance the flavors.
