Savory Ricotta Spinach Quiche: A Delightful Brunch or Dinner Option

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, this Savory Ricotta Spinach Quiche is the perfect choice! With its flaky, golden crust and a creamy, cheesy filling packed with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach, this quiche is a versatile option for any meal of the day. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, preparing a light dinner, or simply craving a homemade savory treat, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. The combination of rich ricotta, tender spinach, and a blend of cheeses creates a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delectable quiche, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch, unbaked, for convenience—or feel free to make your own if you prefer a homemade touch)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (preferably whole-milk ricotta for a creamy texture)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, thoroughly washed, dried, and finely chopped (you can also use baby spinach for a more tender bite)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey, melty goodness)
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature (to help the filling set perfectly)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a rich and velvety custard-like texture)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nutty, savory depth to the quiche)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional, for a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for an aromatic kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for the best flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but a classic addition to quiche that enhances the overall flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if sautéing the optional onion and garlic)

Equipment Needed

• A 9-inch pie dish (if your crust isn’t pre-formed)
• A large mixing bowl
• A whisk or fork
• A skillet (if using onion and garlic)
• A spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• An oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If your pre-made pie crust isn’t already in a pie dish, gently press it into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed along the bottom and up the sides. Crimp the edges if desired for a decorative touch. To prevent a soggy bottom, you can blind-bake the crust: prick the bottom with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and set the crust aside to cool slightly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)
   If you’re adding onion and garlic for extra flavor, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. If you’re skipping the onion and garlic, you can use the raw chopped spinach directly in the next step.
3. Mix the Filling
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 large eggs and 1/2 cup of heavy cream until well combined. Add the 1 cup of ricotta cheese and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, fold in the 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (if using). If you sautéed the spinach with onion and garlic, add this mixture to the bowl; otherwise, simply stir in the 1 cup of fresh chopped spinach. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Quiche
   Pour the creamy spinach and cheese filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If you’d like an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a little more Parmesan or mozzarella on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
5. Bake to Perfection
   Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. You’ll know it’s done when the center no longer jiggles and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Serve
   Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the filling to fully set, making it easier to slice. Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, a glass of crisp white wine, or a cup of hot tea for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Quiche

• Make It Ahead: This quiche can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed. Simply bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes before serving.
• Customize Your Quiche: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or cooked bacon for extra flavor. You can also swap the mozzarella for cheddar or feta if you prefer a different cheese profile.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze, bake the quiche, let it cool, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
• Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen: If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before using.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ricotta Spinach Quiche is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. The creamy ricotta adds a luscious texture, while the spinach provides a burst of freshness and nutrition. The combination of cheeses ensures every bite is packed with flavor, and the flaky pie crust ties it all together. It’s a fantastic dish for gatherings, as it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it easy to transport and share. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some greens into your meal without sacrificing taste!

Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Slice)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands of ingredients used and portion sizes.

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