Ricotta Spinach Quiche
Quiche is one of those delightful dishes that straddles breakfast, brunch, and dinner perfectly, making it a versatile option for any meal. Among the myriad of quiche variations, the Ricotta Spinach Quiche is particularly appealing for its creamy texture and fresh, vibrant flavors. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish effortlessly combines rich cheese and nutritious greens for a well-rounded, satisfying experience.
What makes this quiche truly special is the use of ricotta cheese, which brings a light and airy quality. Coupled with the earthiness of spinach and the subtlety of fresh herbs, every bite leaves you feeling nourished and happy. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, this Ricotta Spinach Quiche is sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection.
Ingredients
-
6 large eggs
Eggs are the foundation of the quiche, providing structure and richness. They bind the filling together and give it a fluffy texture when baked. -
1 cup ricotta cheese
Ricotta lends a creamy mouthfeel and a slightly tangy flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the quiche without being overwhelming. -
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
Spinach adds not only a pop of color but also essential vitamins and minerals. Its mild taste complements the cheese while adding a healthy punch. -
1/2 cup milk
Milk helps to soften the filling, creating a custard-like texture that blends the flavors together beautifully. -
1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., mozzarella or parmesan)
Grated cheese adds another layer of flavor and a delightful gooey texture that keeps the quiche from feeling too dry. -
Salt to taste
Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish, making each bite more vibrant and savory. -
Pepper to taste
Pepper adds a bit of warmth and depth, balancing the creaminess of the ricotta and the richness of the eggs. -
Fresh herbs (optional, e.g., parsley or dill)
Fresh herbs give the quiche a refreshing lift, enhancing the flavor profile and adding a touch of brightness.
Directions & Preparation
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven ensures that the quiche cooks evenly from the start. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture, as a properly heated oven creates a stable environment for the custard to set properly. -
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta cheese, and milk until smooth.
Whisking these ingredients well integrates them into a cohesive mixture. This thorough blending leads to a lighter quiche, preventing any clumps of ricotta or egg, which could otherwise compromise the texture. -
Stir in the chopped spinach and grated cheese.
Adding the spinach and cheese at this point ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This balance is vital for every slice to contain the same delightful combination of flavors and textures, making each bite satisfying. -
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if desired.
Proper seasoning elevates the quiche, intensifying the natural flavors of the ingredients. Here’s your chance to personalize the dish; feel free to play with the herb choices based on what’s available or what you enjoy. -
Pour the mixture into a greased pie dish.
Greasing the dish prevents sticking, making it easier to remove the quiche once baked. A well-greased dish also ensures that all those wonderful flavors don’t get stuck to the sides. -
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
Baking until the top is golden provides a visual cue that your quiche is ready. The golden crust signals that the egg has set, creating the desired custard-like base that holds everything together. -
Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Allowing the quiche to rest is key for maintaining its shape when you slice it. If you cut too soon, the filling might spill out and make serving difficult.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding a touch of garlic or onion to your spinach can deepen the flavors significantly. Sautéing them beforehand brings out a sweeter profile, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Variations to Consider
This quiche can be customized endlessly. Try swapping out spinach for other greens such as kale or Swiss chard, or incorporate roasted red peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a distinct flavor profile.
Perfect Pairings
A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich quiche. The peppery greens and citrus dressing will complement and contrast the creamy texture of the filling, making for a balanced meal perfect for any occasion.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the quiche.
What if my quiche turns out too watery?
If you notice excess liquid, it could be due to undercooking or too much milk. Next time, consider using less milk or baking a bit longer.
Can I add other vegetables to the quiche?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini—simply ensure they’re cooked first to reduce moisture.
Is it okay to use low-fat ricotta?
Yes, using low-fat ricotta will slightly alter the taste and texture but can still produce a delicious quiche.
How do I store leftover quiche?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?
Certainly! You can double or triple the ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Just extend the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
The Ricotta Spinach Quiche offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that make it a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its creamy filling and nutritious spinach, this quiche is as satisfying as it is versatile.
Whether enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers the next day, this quiche is bound to impress your family and friends alike. Embrace the joy of cooking by trying your hand at this simple yet delightful recipe.
Print
Ricotta Spinach Quiche
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach in a versatile quiche perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (e.g., mozzarella or parmesan)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, e.g., parsley or dill)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta cheese, and milk until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and grated cheese.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if desired.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pie dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Consider adding garlic or onion for enhanced flavor. Customize with other greens or cheeses as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 200mg


