If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, then look no further than a Mediterranean-inspired spinach and feta quiche. This hearty dish is packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. And with its delicious blend of savory spinach, tangy feta cheese, and flaky crust, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So why not give this tasty quiche a try today?
1. Introduction to Mediterranean-inspired Spinach & Feta Quiche
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, then you’ll love this Spinach & Feta Quiche recipe! Bursting with spinach, tangy feta cheese, and a homemade crust, this quiche is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. With its easy-to-follow steps and delicious end result, you’ll want to make this quiche again and again.
Why Mediterranean-inspired Quiche?
The Mediterranean-inspired cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients that pack a punch in every dish. The combination of spinach and feta in this quiche adds a new twist to the classic French dish, making it a perfect option for those who want to try something new. Plus, spinach is full of nutrients, making this quiche not only tasty but also nutritious.
2. Ingredients Required To Make Spinach & Feta Quiche
Crust Ingredients
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled
– 1/4 cup ice water
Filling Ingredients
– 8 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3. Preparing the Crust for Spinach & Feta Quiche
Preparing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Cut the chilled butter into small pieces and add them to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to break the butter down into smaller pieces, until the mixture is crumbly and resembles wet sand. Gradually add the ice water, stirring until the dough comes together.
Rolling the Dough
Lightly flour a work surface and roll the dough out until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it down into the bottom and edges of the pan. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
Placing the Dough in the Pan
Cover the crust with foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the foil from the crust and prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepping the Filling for Spinach & Feta Quiche
Preparing the Spinach
In a large skillet, wilt the spinach over medium heat until it’s soft and tender. Remove from heat and let cool. Squeeze out any excess water from the spinach.
Whisking the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined.
Seasoning the Filling
Add the cooled spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper and mix until well combined. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Bake the quiche for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Let the quiche cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean-inspired Spinach & Feta Quiche!
5. Assembling Your Spinach & Feta Quiche
So, you’ve prepped your crust and filling, and now it’s time to bring it all together. First up, layering the filling. Spread the cooked spinach and onion mixture evenly over the bottom of the crust. Then, crack your eggs into a separate bowl and whisk them together with the milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach filling.
Adding the Cheese
Now, let’s talk cheese. No quiche is complete without a little cheesy goodness. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the quiche. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra if you’re feeling bold. If you prefer a milder cheese, you can try using shredded mozzarella or cheddar instead.
6. Baking Your Spinach & Feta Quiche to Perfection
Now that your quiche is assembled, it’s time to give it the heat treatment. Here’s what you need to do:
Preheating the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let it heat up for at least 10 minutes to ensure it’s nice and toasty.
Baking the Crust
Place your quiche on the middle rack of the oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the crust to become slightly golden brown before adding the filling.
Baking the Filling
Once the crust is partially baked, take the quiche out of the oven and pour the egg and spinach mixture over it. Then, put it back in the oven and let it bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. To check if it’s ready, insert a toothpick in the center of the quiche – if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
7. Serving and Enjoying Your Spinach & Feta Quiche
Congratulations, you’ve made a delicious spinach and feta quiche! But before you dig in, there are a few things you need to do:
Cooling the Quiche
Let the quiche cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will give the filling a chance to set and make it easier to cut.
Slicing and Serving the Quiche
Use a sharp knife to slice the quiche into wedges. Serve it warm or at room temperature. If you have any leftovers, cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to three days.
8. Variations to Try with Spinach & Feta Quiche
The beauty of quiche is that it’s a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Here are a few variations to try:
Adding Different Vegetables
If spinach isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for other veggies like mushrooms, broccoli, or zucchini. Just be sure to cook them before adding them to the quiche.
Experimenting with Different Cheeses
While feta cheese is a classic choice for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, you can try other cheeses too. Goat cheese, ricotta, or even a blend of shredded cheeses would work well in this recipe. Don’t be afraid to get creative!In conclusion, Mediterranean-inspired spinach and feta quiche is a versatile dish that can be modified to your taste and dietary preferences. With its combination of fresh ingredients and savory flavors, it is an ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this delicious quiche is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a recipe that you’ll come back to time and time again. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try and delight yourself and your guests.
FAQs About Making Mediterranean-Inspired Spinach & Feta Quiche
1. Can I prepare the quiche crust and filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and filling ahead of time and store them in the fridge separately. When you’re ready to bake the quiche, simply assemble it and bake as directed.
2. Is it necessary to blind bake the quiche crust?
Blind baking the quiche crust before adding the filling helps to prevent a soggy bottom. It’s not necessary, but it’s recommended to ensure that the crust is perfectly cooked.
3. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain the spinach before using it in the recipe.
4. Can I substitute feta cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta cheese with another type of cheese. Some great options include goat cheese, cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
