Quiche Florentine

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Quiche Florentine is a classic savory dish that combines the rich, custardy goodness of quiche with the fresh flavors of spinach and a hint of nutmeg. The filling is made with sautéed spinach, usually mixed with onions or garlic, and then bound together with eggs and cream. The result is a creamy, flavorful base that contrasts beautifully with the crisp, flaky pie crust. Sometimes, cheese like Swiss, Gruyère, or Parmesan is added for extra richness, making this quiche perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

The first time I made Quiche Florentine, I was surprised at how comforting yet light it was, especially with the fresh spinach and the smooth, creamy custard filling. The spinach, with its subtle earthiness, pairs so well with the rich egg mixture, and the nutmeg gives it a gentle, aromatic warmth. What I love most about this dish is how flexible it is—you can make it ahead of time, and it’s delicious whether served warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for a brunch spread, a picnic, or even as a quick, impressive dinner when paired with a simple salad. You can also easily customize it by adding mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or other favorite veggies!

Perfect for:

  • Brunches
  • Lunches
  • Family gatherings
  • Special occasions
  • Spinach and cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Quiche Florentine will become your new favorite dish:

  • Flavorful Filling: The combination of spinach, garlic, and cheese creates a rich, savory filling that everyone will enjoy.
  • Flaky Crust: The buttery, golden crust is the perfect complement to the creamy, cheesy filling.
  • Versatile Dish: This quiche can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold, making it ideal for any time of day.
  • Protein-Packed: Eggs and cheese provide a satisfying source of protein for a balanced meal.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Packed with fresh spinach, this dish is a great vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare the quiche in advance and store it in the fridge for a convenient, easy-to-serve meal.
  • Elegant Presentation: This dish is perfect for serving at parties or gatherings due to its beautiful, golden appearance.
  • Customizable Ingredients: You can easily add other vegetables, meats, or seasonings to customize the flavor.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, this quiche provides vitamins and minerals.
  • Comfort Food: It’s a warm, satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to the table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 8 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 24g

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated cheese

Ingredient Highlights

  • Fresh Spinach: Adds a vibrant color and a rich source of vitamins A and C.
  • Mozzarella and Parmesan: Provide a creamy, melty texture and a savory, nutty flavor.
  • Heavy Cream and Milk: Create a smooth and luscious custard base.
  • Olive Oil: Adds a hint of richness to the sautéed vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Crust:

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add Water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough starts to come together.
  3. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead briefly, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  4. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press it into the dish and trim any excess dough.
  5. Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add Spinach: Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Prepare the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Combine Spinach Mixture: Stir the cooled spinach mixture into the custard, mixing well.

Assemble the Quiche:

  1. Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the spinach and custard mixture into the pre-baked crust.
  2. Bake the Quiche: Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden.
  3. Cool: Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Slice: Top with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired. Slice and serve warm, at room temperature, or cold.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Quiche Florentine:

  • As a Brunch Dish: Serve with a side salad and fresh fruit for a complete meal.
  • For a Light Lunch: Pair with a simple green salad and your favorite vinaigrette.
  • With Soup: Serve alongside tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting combination.
  • For Dinner: Serve with roasted vegetables or a side of potatoes for a hearty meal.
  • As a Picnic Treat: This quiche is perfect for packing in a picnic basket for an outdoor meal.
  • With Crispy Beef Bacon: Add a side of crispy beef bacon for extra flavor and crunch.
  • As a Side Dish: Serve as a side to grilled meats or seafood for a well-rounded meal.
  • With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with additional herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant touch.
  • As an Appetizer: Cut into small slices and serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
  • For Special Occasions: Perfect for Easter, Mother’s Day, or a family celebration.

Additional Tips

  • Chill the Crust: Make sure to chill the dough to prevent it from shrinking while baking.
  • Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the best flavor and texture in this quiche.
  • Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Pre-baking the crust ensures a crisp bottom, even with a custard filling.
  • Test for Doneness: The quiche is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles.
  • Cut Cleanly: For neat slices, let the quiche rest before cutting.

Recipe Variations

  • Add Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms along with the spinach for an earthy addition.
  • Beef Bacon or Beef Ham: Add crispy beef bacon or diced beef ham to the filling for extra protein and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless quiche for a gluten-free version.
  • Cheddar and Spinach Quiche: Swap the mozzarella for sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
  • Zucchini Quiche: Add sautéed zucchini for a different vegetable option.
  • Herbed Crust: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the crust for extra flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for some heat.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use non-dairy milk and cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Smoked Salmon Quiche: Replace the spinach with smoked salmon and a hint of dill for a sophisticated twist.
  • Goat Cheese and Spinach: Substitute goat cheese for a tangier, creamier filling.

Special Equipment

  • Food Processor: For quickly preparing the crust dough.
  • 9-inch Pie Dish: For baking the quiche.
  • Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough.
  • Pie Weights or Dried Beans: To weigh down the crust during pre-baking.
  • Skillet: For sautéing vegetables.
  • Whisk: To beat the custard mixture.
  • Offset Spatula: For smoothing the custard into the crust.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
    Yes, thaw and drain the frozen spinach before using.
  2. How long does the quiche last in the fridge?
    The quiche can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  3. Can I freeze the quiche?
    Yes, you can freeze the quiche for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  4. Can I use a store-bought crust?
    Yes, a pre-made crust can save time and still deliver great results.
  5. How do I reheat leftovers?
    Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
  6. Can I make this quiche without cheese?
    Yes, you can omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free option.
  7. Can I add meat to the quiche?
    Absolutely! Beef bacon, turkey sausage, or beef ham can be added to the filling.
  8. Can I make this quiche without crust?
    Yes, this can be made as a crustless quiche by simply greasing the pie dish and skipping the crust.
  9. What should I do if the quiche crust shrinks?
    Make sure to chill the dough and pre-bake the crust thoroughly to prevent shrinking.
  10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

Conclusion

Quiche Florentine is a comforting, versatile dish that combines a flaky crust with a creamy, flavorful filling. Perfect for any meal, from brunch to dinner, this quiche is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit any taste. With its rich spinach and cheese filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a simple family meal, this quiche is sure to delight.