Name: Quiche Florentine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 19-inch frozen pie crust; 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup whole milk; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 3 ounces chèvre or other soft goat cheese; 1/2 cup fresh spinach, loosely chopped; 1 shallot, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; to taste Fresh thyme leaves, optional for garnish

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When I think of comfort food that feels both elegant and cozy, I can’t help but reminisce about the time I first made Quiche Florentine. It was a crisp Saturday morning, and the kitchen smelled of fresh eggs and the earthy aroma of sautéed spinach. I had invited a few friends over for brunch, and I wanted to impress them with something that was delicious yet simple to prepare. As I whisked together the eggs, cream, and a generous crumbling of goat cheese, I felt a sense of excitement. When I finally pulled that golden-brown quiche from the oven, the warm hues of the chèvre and the vibrant green of the spinach made my heart sing. Not only did it look beautiful, but the first bite was a revelation! The creamy filling, combined with the flaky crust, was simply divine. I knew then that this would become a staple in my recipe collection.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

The Beauty of This Quiche Florentine

It’s Always a Hit

There’s something magical about how a Quiche Florentine can steal the show at any gathering. Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a festive holiday meal, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Friends often comment on how they could see all the vibrant ingredients peeking through the crust, and it sparks conversation before anyone even takes a bite.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily switch up the fillings based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. While spinach and goat cheese are classic, you can add roasted bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of feta for a different twist. This flexibility allows you to create a unique quiche every time!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another advantage of making Quiche Florentine is that it’s excellent for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weekday mornings. I often slice leftovers and enjoy them cold or warmed. It’s like having a fancy breakfast ready at my fingertips!

Nutritious Ingredients

Filled with wholesome ingredients, this quiche is not just tasty but also nutritious. The spinach brings a wealth of vitamins, while the combination of eggs, milk, and cream provides a rich source of protein and healthy fats. Plus, with the addition of chèvre, you get a lovely tang that complements the other flavors wonderfully.

A Family Tradition

When I first made this quiche, I was inspired by my grandmother’s love for cooking. She would always whip up something special for family gatherings, and quiche was her go-to. Now, every time I bake a Quiche Florentine, I think of her and the delightful times we shared in the kitchen. It feels like passing down a family tradition, and I hope to inspire others to do the same.

Impressive Presentation

Lastly, let’s talk about presentation. A beautifully baked quiche with its golden crust and colorful filling is a delight for the eyes. Just slice it, arrange the pieces on a lovely platter, and you have a stunning dish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, when in fact, it’s quite simple to make!

What You Need for Quiche Florentine

Gathering the right ingredients for your Quiche Florentine is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a key role in building the dish’s character. The pie crust provides a flaky base, while the eggs, milk, and cream create a rich custard-like filling. Fresh spinach, chèvre, and shallots add layers of flavor, making each bite a delightful experience.

19-inch frozen pie crust: This forms the base of your quiche, providing a crispy and flaky texture. Using a frozen crust saves time, making the process smoother.
3 large eggs: Essential for creating the custard filling, the eggs bind everything together while adding rich protein.
3/4 cup whole milk: This adds creaminess to the mixture, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the quiche.
1/4 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream takes the richness up a notch, creating a decadent filling that melts in your mouth.
3 ounces chèvre or other soft goat cheese: This tangy cheese adds a unique flavor profile. It melts beautifully and complements the spinach perfectly.
1/2 cup fresh spinach, loosely chopped: Fresh spinach brings a vibrant green color and essential nutrients, making this quiche both tasty and healthy.
1 shallot, chopped: The shallot offers a mild onion flavor that adds depth without overpowering the dish.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: This enhances all the flavors, ensuring a well-seasoned quiche.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity to the flavors.
Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish): These fragrant herbs not only garnish the quiche but also elevate the flavor profile.

Recipe Steps for Quiche Florentine

Making a Quiche Florentine can be a delightful experience! Follow these simple steps, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into each step to ensure a perfect quiche!

Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an important step as you want a hot oven to ensure the pie crust cooks properly.
Take the frozen pie crust out of the freezer and allow it to thaw slightly. Once it’s pliable, use a fork to prick the bottom and sides. This prevents the crust from puffing up during baking. If you have pie weights or dried beans, consider using them for an extra flat crust.
Place the crust in the preheated oven on the lower third rack. Bake it for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it begins to turn golden brown. Once done, take it out and set it aside to cool slightly.
While the crust is cooling, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream. Make sure to whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Next, crumble the chèvre into the egg mixture with your fingers. Then add the spinach, chopped shallots, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until just combined; don’t worry if some chunks of cheese remain, as they will melt and create pockets of flavor in the final dish.
Now, it’s time to lower your oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked crust. If you notice cracks in the crust, don’t fret; this won’t affect the final result.
Slide the quiche back into the oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set but has a slight jiggle. This indicates a perfectly custardy texture.
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling time helps the filling set further, making it easier to slice.
Before serving, consider garnishing with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic touch. Slice and enjoy your beautiful Quiche Florentine!

Things Worth Knowing

Know your ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially the spinach and chèvre, makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Proper cooling time: Allowing the quiche to rest helps it hold its shape when slicing.
Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding different vegetables or cheese to personalize your quiche.
Checking doneness: The quiche is ready when it feels firm to the touch and has a slight jiggle in the center. Make sure not to overbake!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Quiche Florentine turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crust’s crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked quiche before adding the filling. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and add the filling while it’s still frozen.
Pairing: Serve your quiche with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
Crust options: Feel free to use a homemade crust or a whole wheat option for a healthier alternative.
Seasonal ingredients: Get creative with seasonal vegetables that may be in your garden or at the market to elevate your quiche’s flavor.
Cookware: Using a glass pie dish allows you to see the bottom of the crust, ensuring it’s perfectly baked.

What to Serve Alongside Quiche Florentine

When it comes to serving your Quiche Florentine, the options are endless. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

Fresh Mixed Greens: A light salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the quiche.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection bring added flavor and nutrition to your meal.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a sweet contrast to the savory quiche.
Herbed Potatoes: Roasted or herbed potatoes make a hearty side dish that complements the quiche.
Occasions: This quiche is perfect for brunch gatherings, Easter celebrations, or a light summer lunch.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it great for meal prep.

FAQ

Quiche Florentine is distinguished by its use of fresh spinach and goat cheese, creating a unique flavor profile. Unlike traditional quiches that may include meats, this version emphasizes the vibrant taste of greens combined with creamy cheese. The balance of ingredients results in a lighter yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for brunch or lunch.

Absolutely! One of the best features of Quiche Florentine is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. You can bake it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving. It also tastes delicious cold, making it great for meal prep or picnics!

Definitely! The beauty of Quiche Florentine lies in its versatility. You can swap out the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Additionally, try different cheeses such as feta or mozzarella for a new twist. You can even add cooked vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor!

To check if your Quiche Florentine is done, look for a set center that has a slight jiggle. The edges should be firm while the middle has a gentle movement, indicating a perfectly custardy filling. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

The Quiche Florentine truly is a delightful dish that brings together creamy textures and vibrant flavors in a flaky crust. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a favorite for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it yourself; you might just find it becomes a new staple in your kitchen!