Craving a sophisticated yet simple dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy? Look no further than this Smoked Salmon Quiche! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful brunch. It combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the creamy texture of a classic quiche, creating a delicious dish that's sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves four hungry adults, or can be scaled up or down to fit your needs.
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For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup ice water
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For the Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- ½ cup chopped fresh dill
- ½ cup chopped red onion (optional, for added bite)
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
- Roll and bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate or quiche dish. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Blind bake for 15 minutes, then remove and set aside.
Assembling and Baking the Quiche:
- Whisk together wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Arrange filling: Spread the sliced smoked salmon evenly over the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle with the chopped dill and red onion (if using).
- Pour egg mixture: Gently pour the egg mixture over the salmon and vegetables.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Smoked Salmon Quiche:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this quiche truly shines when you use good quality smoked salmon and fresh dill.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry quiche. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it ahead: This quiche can be made ahead of time and reheated. It's even better the next day!
Variations:
- Creamy dill sauce: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche mixed with fresh dill.
- Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like chives or parsley.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Smoked Salmon Quiche is a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe, and remember to share your culinary creations with us! Happy cooking!