There’s something undeniably comforting about the perfect quiche-a golden, flaky crust cradling a luscious, savory filling that delights the senses with every bite. Enter the wholesome spinach feta quiche: a vibrant medley of fresh, nutritious spinach adn tangy, creamy feta cheese, harmoniously baked into a timeless brunch classic. Whether you’re seeking a nourishing breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or an elegant appetizer, this recipe offers a savory delight that’s as versatile as it is flavorful. Join us as we explore the art of crafting this delectable quiche, blending wholesome ingredients with simple techniques to create a dish that’s both hearty and refined.
Wholesome Spinach Feta Quiche offers a perfectly balanced dish where flaky, buttery crust meets a luscious filling bursting with fresh greens and tangy cheese. Originating from classic French baking, this quiche has become a beloved savory staple in kitchens worldwide. crafting this dish with attention to detail brings out its rich textures and vibrant flavors, making it ideal for brunch, light dinners, or celebratory gatherings.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 25 minutes
- Resting the dough: 30 minutes
- Cooking (baking): 40 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Medium: Ideal for home cooks familiar with basic dough techniques and sautéing vegetables.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ tsp salt
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tbsp ice water
- For the filling:
- 6 oz fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably Greek-style)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter.Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter remaining. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just begins to hold together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps the gluten relax and keeps the butter cold for flaky layers.
- Sauté the spinach filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted and most moisture has evaporated-approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Carefully press it into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, trimming excess dough from the edges. Prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Blind bake the crust: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment. Bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. This step ensures a crisp base that won’t become soggy.
- In a mixing bowl,whisk together eggs,milk,nutmeg,salt,and pepper until fully combined.
- Distribute the sautéed spinach mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle crumbled feta and mozzarella cheese on top. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the filling,allowing it to settle evenly.
- Bake the quiche for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. A lightly golden top indicates it’s perfectly cooked.
- Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the filling stabilize for clean, elegant slices.
Tips for Success
- Chill the dough well: Cold butter creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in the desired flaky crust texture.
- drain spinach thoroughly: Excess moisture can cause a soggy quiche. After sautéing, press the spinach with a paper towel or kitchen cloth to remove liquid.
- Customize your cheese: Feta offers a luminous tang, but try swapping half the mozzarella with goat cheese for a creamier finish.
- Blind baking prevents sogginess: Don’t skip this step; it seals the crust to keep your quiche perfectly crisp.
- Make ahead: The crust can be prepared 1 day in advance and refrigerated; the quiche itself tastes even better the next day reheated.
- For extra color: Brush the crust edges lightly with egg wash right before baking for a golden sheen.
Serving suggestions and Pairings
This wholesome spinach feta quiche shines when served warm or at room temperature. Garnish slices with a sprinkle of freshly chopped dill or parsley to enhance the herbaceous notes. For a light accompaniment, pair with a mixed green salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette or crisp cucumber ribbons drizzled with olive oil. A handful of roasted cherry tomatoes on the side adds a beautiful pop of color and sweetness,complementing the tangy feta perfectly.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic. To balance the richness, a chilled glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a non-alcoholic sparkling elderflower pressé offers refreshing contrast.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
For more wholesome savory quiche ideas, check out our Vegetable Quiche Variations. To deepen your understanding of the perfect pastry crust technique, visit King Arthur Baking’s official guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Wholesome Spinach Feta Quiche – A Savory Delight Recipe
Q1: What makes this Spinach Feta Quiche recipe “wholesome”?
A1: This quiche combines nutrient-rich spinach with tangy feta cheese, packed into a flaky whole-grain crust. It offers a balanced blend of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, making it both delicious and nourishing-a perfect choice for a wholesome meal.
Q2: Can I prepare this quiche ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Spinach Feta Quiche reheats beautifully and can be made a day before serving. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven to refresh its golden crust and melty filling.
Q3: How do I ensure the crust stays crisp without getting soggy?
A3: To keep the crust crisp, blind-bake it halfway before adding the filling. This step helps seal the base, preventing moisture from seeping in. Using a pie weight or dried beans during blind baking keeps the dough from puffing up.
Q4: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A4: Yes, frozen spinach works well and can be a time-saver! Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a watery quiche filling.
Q5: What are some vegetarian protein boosts that complement the spinach and feta?
A5: For an extra protein punch, consider adding cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. they pair wonderfully with the creamy feta and earthy spinach.
Q6: Is this quiche suitable for gluten-free diets?
A6: Definitely! Swap the traditional crust for a gluten-free pastry or try a crustless quiche version. The filling’s rich flavors still shine through without a conventional crust.
Q7: How can I add more depth to the flavour without overpowering the feta?
A7: Lightly sautéing garlic and onion before mixing into the filling adds a savory base note. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme also enhance the taste without overshadowing the feta’s unique tang.
Q8: Can this quiche be served at any meal?
A8: Yes! This quiche is incredibly versatile-perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
Q9: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A9: Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, quiche freezes well-wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Q10: Are there any tips for slicing the quiche cleanly?
A10: Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This prevents the filling from sticking and helps achieve neat, elegant slices to showcase your savory creation.
Future Outlook
in the world of savory delights, the wholesome spinach feta quiche stands out as a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or served at room temperature, this recipe invites you to savor each bite of flaky crust, tender spinach, and tangy feta.Perfect for brunches, casual gatherings, or a nourishing weeknight meal, this quiche not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. Embrace the simple joy of creating and sharing this timeless dish-a true testament to how wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly remarkable.
