Classic Spinach Quiche Recipe

Certainly! Here’s a complete, in-depth guide for making a Classic Spinach Quiche — ideal for brunches, lunches, or light dinners. This recipe includes a detailed title, introduction, origin, ingredients (with optional variations), step-by-step instructions, tips for success, serving recommendations, and estimated nutrition.

Classic Spinach Quiche Recipe

A Creamy, Savory Quiche Packed with Spinach, Cheese & Custard Filling

Introduction

Spinach quiche is a timeless, savory pie that combines a buttery crust, a silky egg custard, and flavorful fillings. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this dish is beloved for its versatility, elegance, and satisfying comfort. Ideal for brunch, potlucks, or light dinners, it can be served as the star of a meal or as a refined side.

With its creamy filling and vibrant green spinach, this quiche is both nutritious and indulgent — and easily customizable for vegetarians or meat-lovers alike.

Origin of Quiche

Quiche originated in France, specifically the Alsace-Lorraine region, with the most famous version being Quiche Lorraine, made with bacon and cheese. However, quiche has evolved into a globally loved dish with endless variations. The word quiche comes from the German “kuchen” (cake), reflecting the region’s Franco-German influence. Spinach became a common filling in the 20th century, offering a delicious vegetarian twist on the classic.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• Optional: 1 egg white for brushing the crust (helps prevent sogginess)

For the Filling

• 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 oz (140g) fresh spinach (or 1 cup thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) half-and-half or whole milk
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (for richness)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (traditional for depth of flavor)

Optional Ingredients

• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (adds tang)
• Cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham (for a meaty variation)
• Sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (whisked into the custard for a subtle kick)
• Fresh herbs: thyme, parsley, or chives

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Crust

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. If desired, brush with egg white and par-bake for 10 minutes to help prevent sogginess. Cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook Spinach Mixture

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, 3–5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
4. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted (or stir in thawed frozen spinach). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Make Custard

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
2. Stir in cheese and cooled spinach mixture.
3. Add any optional ingredients like feta, herbs, or ham.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.
2. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch spills.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean. The top should be lightly golden.

Step 5: Cool & Serve

1. Allow quiche to cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm, room temperature, or cold.

Tips for Success

• Pre-cook fresh vegetables (especially spinach and mushrooms) to avoid a watery filling.
• Use high-fat dairy (like cream or half-and-half) for the creamiest texture.
• Don’t overbake! Remove quiche when it’s slightly jiggly in the center — it will set as it cools.
• Par-bake your crust if you like a crisper base.
• Grate your own cheese — pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Serving Recommendations

• Serve with:
  
  • A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
  • Roasted potatoes or fruit salad
  • A slice of crusty baguette
• Perfect for:
  
  • Brunches and baby showers
  • Easter or Mother’s Day
  • Make-ahead lunches

Nutrition Estimate

(Per slice, 1 of 8 servings)

Nutrient	Approximate Value
Calories	280–320 kcal
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	125mg
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	1g
Protein	10g
Sodium	350–400mg

Note: Nutrition will vary based on dairy choices, cheese, and optional ingredients.