Welcome to a culinary journey where simplicity meets elegance. This Mushroom and Spinach Quiche is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together to create a delightful meal. Perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this quiche will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made or homemade pie crust
– 200g mushrooms, sliced (choose your favorite variety—button, cremini, or even a mix for extra flavor)
– 150g fresh spinach, washed and thoroughly dried (baby spinach works wonderfully here)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 large eggs
– 200ml heavy cream
– 100g grated cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or any cheese you love that melts well)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Pinch of nutmeg (optional but highly recommended for that extra touch of warmth)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
– Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial to ensure your quiche bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
– Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you prefer, add a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter to prevent sticking and add a touch of richness.
– Toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until they release their moisture and turn a beautiful golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the earthy aroma as they cook!
– Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
– Now, add the fresh spinach. It may seem like a lot at first, but it will wilt down significantly. Stir it occasionally until it’s completely wilted and well combined with the mushrooms and onions, about 2-3 minutes.
– Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This step is important to ensure the veggies don’t cook the eggs when mixed.
3. **Prepare the Custard Mixture:**
– In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they’re well beaten.
– Pour in the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until you have a smooth, homogeneous mixture.
– Stir in the grated cheese. Choose a cheese that melts well and has a nice flavor—Gruyère or sharp cheddar are both excellent choices.
– Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. The nutmeg is optional, but it adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the spinach and mushrooms beautifully. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Quiche:
– Roll out your pie crust if it’s not pre-rolled, and fit it into your pie dish. Press it gently into the dish, making sure it fits snugly against the sides.
– Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust. This prevents it from puffing up during baking.
– Spread the cooled mushroom, spinach, and onion mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Take a moment to appreciate how vibrant and inviting the colors are.
5. Add the Custard Filling:
– Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the vegetable layer. Pour slowly to avoid overflow and to ensure the filling seeps into all the nooks and crannies.
6. Bake:
– Place the quiche in your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The quiche is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is set. You can test it by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your quiche is ready.
– As the quiche bakes, your kitchen will fill with the delightful aromas of melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and baked pastry.
7. Cool and Serve:
– Once out of the oven, let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut clean slices and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
– Serve your quiche warm for a comforting, savory meal. Alternatively, let it cool completely and enjoy it as a refreshing, light dish on a warm day.
Tips for a Perfect Quiche:
– Cheese Selection:
Experiment with different cheeses. A combination of Gruyère and Parmesan can add an extra depth of flavor.
– Crust Alternatives:
If you prefer a lighter option, consider a crustless quiche. Simply omit the crust and bake the filling in a well-greased pie dish.
– Add-ins:
Customize your quiche with additional ingredients like diced ham, cooked bacon, or roasted red peppers for a unique twist.
Pairing Suggestions:
– A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche beautifully.
– Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a light soup for a more substantial meal.
– Pair with a crisp white wine or a light, fruity rosé to enhance the flavors.
Enjoy your homemade Mushroom and Spinach Quiche, a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends with its delicious flavor and elegant presentation. Bon appétit!
