Introduction
Quiche, a savory delight, has a long-standing reputation as a gourmet dish that satisfies the soul. But when bacon meets spinach inside this classic pie, it elevates the experience to celestial levels. The saltiness of the bacon juxtaposed with the earthiness of the spinach, all encased in a creamy custard, is pure harmony on a plate. Dive into the world of Bacon Spinach Quiche, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises rich flavors and a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 6 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Prepping the Base: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it down and ensuring the edges are neat. Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
- Spinach and Bacon Mélange: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, followed by the diced onion. Sauté until translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Add the chopped spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to a dish. In the same skillet, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Once done, crumble them into bits.
- Crafting the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, nutmeg, gruyere cheese, and half of the parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assembling the Quiche: Evenly spread the spinach mixture at the base of the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the layers.
- Baking: Sprinkle the rest of the parmesan cheese on top and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This waiting period ensures the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful bite.
Most Questions Asked
- Can I use a homemade crust? Definitely! If you have a favorite pie crust recipe or prefer homemade, it will only enhance the flavors.
- Which bacon is best for this quiche? Thick-cut bacon works wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite type. Turkey bacon can be a leaner substitute.
- Can I add other vegetables or ingredients? Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
- Storage and reheating suggestions? Store the cooled quiche, covered, in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to maintain its crispy crust.
Conclusion
Bacon Spinach Quiche isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. Every bite promises a blend of textures, from the crispy bacon to the velvety custard, and a burst of harmonized flavors. Whether for a lazy Sunday brunch, a dinner party, or a weekday meal, this quiche fits any occasion.
As the French say, “Bon Appétit!” Let the delicious layers of the Bacon Spinach Quiche wrap you in a culinary embrace, and here’s to many memorable meals ahead!