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
Р100g grated cheese (Gruy̬re, 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.
РToss in the sliced mushrooms. Saut̩ 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.
РAs the quiche bakes, your kitchen will fill with the delightful aromas of melted cheese, saut̩ed 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.
РPair with a crisp white wine or a light, fruity ros̩ 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!
