Easy French Quiche Recipe with Spinach & Cheese: A Delightful Breakfast Idea

Delicious French quiche with spinach and cheese

Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked quiche wafting through your kitchen. The golden crust, the creamy filling, and the vibrant spinach—it's a breakfast that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly morning. Today, we're diving into the world of French cuisine with an easy quiche recipe that combines the goodness of spinach and cheese. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Introduction to Quiche: A Classic French Cuisine

Quiche, a savory pie with a custard filling, is a staple in French cuisine. It's versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any meal of the day. The combination of spinach and cheese adds a delightful twist, making it a nutritious and flavorful breakfast idea. So, let's roll up our sleeves and get started!

Ingredients: What You'll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather our ingredients. You'll need:

1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 oz spinach, fresh or frozen
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Perfect Quiche

Preparing the Crust

First things first, let's prepare the crust. If you're using a store-bought crust, simply unroll it and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own pie crust.

Sautéing the Spinach

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 3-5 minutes. If you're using frozen spinach, make sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture.

Making the Custard Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. This will be the base of your quiche filling. Add the shredded cheese and the sautéed spinach mixture to the bowl, and stir until well combined.

Assembling the Quiche

Pour the spinach and cheese filling into the prepared pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even distribution.

Baking the Quiche

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the quiche on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. You can test the doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Serving and Enjoying Your Quiche

Once your quiche is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your quiche warm or at room temperature, paired with a side salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

Tips for Perfecting Your Quiche

Blind Bake the Crust: For a crispier crust, consider blind baking it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent a soggy bottom.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality cheese can elevate the flavor of your quiche.
Don't Overcook: Keep an eye on your quiche to avoid overcooking. An overcooked quiche can become dry and lose its creamy texture.

The Versatility of Quiche

Quiche is not just a breakfast idea; it's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. You can customize it with various fillings, from vegetables to meats, making it a perfect dish for using up leftovers.

Conclusion: Embrace the Joy of Easy Cooking

This easy French quiche recipe with spinach and cheese is a testament to the joy of simple, yet delicious cooking. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that's both comforting and impressive. So, why not give it a try this weekend? Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I freeze quiche? Yes, you can freeze quiche. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in a quiche? You can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of milk and sour cream or Greek yogurt. This will maintain the creamy texture without compromising the flavor.
How do I prevent my quiche from being soggy? Blind baking the crust and ensuring your spinach is well-drained can help prevent a soggy quiche. Additionally, avoid overfilling the crust with too much liquid.
Can I make quiche without a crust? Absolutely! A crustless quiche is a great option for those looking to reduce carbs. Simply grease your pie dish and pour the filling directly into it.
What other vegetables can I add to my quiche? You can add a variety of vegetables to your quiche, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!

Happy cooking!