Craving a comforting yet elegant meal that's both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for quiche with ham and spinach is the perfect solution for a delightful breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks. This recipe delivers a delicious dish that’s also a healthy meal option, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet satisfying quiche!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) ready-made refrigerated pie crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream (half-and-half works well too!)
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese (or cheddar, Swiss, or a blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate. This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal later.
Prepare the Filling:
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Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
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Add the chopped ham and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
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Stir in the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
Assemble and Bake:
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Carefully unfold the pie crust and place it in the prepared pie plate. Gently press it into the bottom and up the sides. You can trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), grated cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
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Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust. Evenly distribute the cooked ham and spinach mixture over the top.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
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Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving. This allows it to set properly and makes slicing much easier.
Tips for the Best Quiche:
- Blind Baking: For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the crust for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent a soggy bottom.
- Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A combination of cheeses often results in a richer flavor.
- Add-ins: Get creative with your fillings! Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or different herbs to customize your quiche.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Quiche: Omit the ham and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Lorraine Quiche: Use bacon instead of ham and add a sprinkle of caraway seeds.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy quiche recipe is a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. It's a healthy and delicious meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!