Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche
Looking for a quick, easy, and irresistible dish that will impress your family and friends? You’ll absolutely love this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche recipe, which combines creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and a buttery pie crust for an undeniably delicious meal. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this game-changing quiche, perfect for brunch or a light dinner. What’s more, you’ll discover numerous tips and tricks to make this dish your own, ensuring it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dive into this delightful culinary experience?
Recipe Origin & Cultural Context
The quiche hails from the Alsace region of France, which borders Germany. Its name is derived from the German word “kuchen,” meaning cake. Originally, quiche was a savory custard pie made with eggs and cream. Over the years, it evolved—especially with the addition of various ingredients to cater to local tastes.
I remember the first time I enjoyed a quiche—it was at a quaint French café during a summer trip to Paris with my family. The rich, creamy filling of the quiche, paired with the delicate flakiness of the crust, left a lasting impression. When I started experimenting in the kitchen, creating my version of an Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche became a labor of love—combining my childhood memories with fresh, nutritious ingredients. This adaptation, featuring ricotta and spinach, not only pays homage to traditional recipes but also gives it a modern twist.
Why This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe is a Game-Changer
This quiche is not just any recipe; it’s a culinary companion that brings multiple benefits to your table:
⚡ Lightning Fast
With just a prep time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 30-35 minutes, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in under an hour. Perfect for those busy weeknights or Sunday brunches when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Using common pantry staples, this quiche is incredibly economical. For roughly $10, you can feed a family of four, making it a great option when you’re keeping an eye on your budget.
👨👩👧 Family Approved
Kids will love the creamy texture of the ricotta and the subtle flavor of the spinach. You can even personalize it by adding their favorite veggies or cheese for variations.
🥗 Nutritiously Delicious
Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, K, and iron. The combination of ricotta and eggs provides quality protein, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.
🔄 Infinitely Customizable
Feel free to get creative! Swap out spinach for other greens, add sautéed mushrooms, or even incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian flair.
📦 Pantry-Friendly
Most ingredients, such as eggs, milk, and spices, are common staples in many homes, minimizing the need for extra shopping trips.
Complete Ingredient Breakdown
To create your Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche, you will need the following ingredients:
Essential Base Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust: You can use store-bought or make your own.
- 3 large eggs: Essential for the quiche’s custard-like filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps create a softer texture for the filling. You can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Flavor Enhancers
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty flavor and delightful sharpness. You can replace it with cheddar or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Adds a warm spice that complements the dish wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing spinach—swap with butter for a richer flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped cooked bacon or ham: For extra protein.
- Sautéed onions or garlic: For added flavor depth.
Smart Substitutions Table
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|——————————-|———————————————-|
| Ricotta cheese | Cottage cheese, cream cheese |
| Milk | Almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk |
| Fresh spinach | Kale, Swiss chard, or other leafy greens |
| Pre-made pie crust | Homemade pie crust, phyllo dough |
Shopping and Storage Tips
- Store unused ricotta cheese or opened milk in the fridge and use within a few days.
- Fresh spinach should be sealed in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Required Equipment & Tools
To make this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche, you’ll need the following equipment:
Essential Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish: A must-have for holding your quiche.
- Skillet: For sautéing the spinach and any other desired fillings.
- Mixing bowl: To combine your ingredients.
- Whisk: For beating the eggs and mixing the filling.
Nice-to-Have Tools
- Food processor: For making your own pie crust.
- Silicone spatula: Helpful for scraping the bowl clean.
Budget Alternatives
Don’t have a pie dish? Use an oven-safe frying pan or a tart pan if you’re in a pinch!
Foolproof Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients (5 minutes)
Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach (5 minutes)
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach and sauté until wilted. Pro tip: Season your spinach with a pinch of salt while cooking for added flavor.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture (5 minutes)
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, ½ cup of milk, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg until smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Spinach (2 minutes)
Stir the sautéed spinach into the egg mixture until well combined.
Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust (3 minutes)
Carefully pour the mixture into the pre-made pie crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake (30-35 minutes)
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The quiche is done when the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Pro tip: Insert a knife—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Step 7: Cool and Serve (5 minutes)
Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Complex Step Overview
- Preparing the Base: Ensure your pie crust is well-formed and evenly distributed.
- Cooking Techniques Explained: Sautéing the spinach enhances its flavor and reduces moisture.
Professional Chef Secrets
- Temperature Control: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a creamier filling.
- Seasoning Timing: Add salt early in the sautéing process for optimal flavor absorption.
- Texture Troubleshooting: If your quiche turns out watery, reduce the amount of milk slightly next time.
- Presentation Techniques: Garnish slices with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Creative Variations & Adaptations
- Seasonal Variations: Add pumpkin or roasted red peppers for a fall twist.
- Dietary Modifications: For a vegan option, use tofu in place of eggs and vegan cheese.
- Leftover Transformations: Use leftover quiche as a filling for a savory breakfast burrito.
Nutritional Breakdown & Health Benefits
Here’s a quick nutritional profile for one serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
Additional Health Info
- Spinach: An excellent source of iron, supporting overall health.
- Ricotta: Offers calcium, essential for bone health.
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep
Proper Storage Methods
Store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best Containers to Use
Glass containers are great for reheating without leaching chemicals.
Reheating Techniques
For optimal texture, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Quiche is too watery
Solution: Ensure you sauté the spinach thoroughly and press out excess moisture.
Problem: Crust is soggy
Solution: Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding filling to help it crisp up.
Comprehensive FAQ Section
Can I make this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use non-dairy milk and substitute with tofu for a dairy-free ricotta alternative.
How far in advance can I prepare this?
You can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day before baking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Oven reheating is preferable for maintaining texture, but a microwave works in a pinch.
Related Recipes & Pairings
- Savory Tomato Tart: Another delightful pastry option to complement your brunch.
- Arugula Salad: Fresh greens add a bright side note to balance the richness of the quiche.
- Wine Pairing: Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine for a refreshing combination.
Recipe Card & Printable Version
Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-45 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped spinach until wilted.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir in the sautéed spinach.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Conclusion & Reader Engagement
This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a delicious way to gather with loved ones. As you experiment with this quiche, remember that cooking is all about personalization—feel free to channel your creativity!
If you try this recipe, I would love to hear about your experience. Drop a comment below with your results! Don’t forget to share this quiche with fellow cooking enthusiasts in your life. You can also tag us on Instagram @yourhandle, and remember to save this recipe for your next dinner party. Happy cooking!
Print
Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and delicious quiche featuring ricotta and spinach, perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped spinach until wilted.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir in the sautéed spinach.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize with other vegetables or cheeses. Make it dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg