Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Ham and Spinach Quiche! This classic dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or even a potluck. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly versatile, and surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. This homemade cooking gem is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 8 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup chopped cooked ham
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll one pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Gently prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. This simple step ensures a perfectly crisp crust for your delicious quiche.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly. This step adds depth of flavor to your quiche.
Step 3: Assembling the Quiche
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked onion and spinach mixture and the chopped ham. If using, add the cheddar cheese. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust.
Step 4: Baking the Quiche
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. A perfectly baked quiche should have a firm center and a beautifully golden crust.
Tips for the Best Ham and Spinach Quiche:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade pie crust.
- Don’t overcook the spinach; it should be wilted but still slightly bright green.
- If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses would be delicious.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Sun-dried Tomato and Feta Quiche: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese for the ham and cheddar.
- Mushroom and Gruyere Quiche: Use sautéed mushrooms and Gruyere cheese for a sophisticated twist.
- Bacon and Swiss Quiche: Replace the ham with crispy bacon and use Swiss cheese instead of cheddar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Ham and Spinach Quiche recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and healthy. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!