1. Introduction
When it comes to versatile and elegant dishes, few can rival the appeal of a quiche. The rustic goat cheese quiche is a delightful blend of creamy, tangy goat cheese paired with a buttery crust and a rich egg filling. This dish embodies the perfect harmony between simplicity and sophistication, making it a standout choice for brunches, picnics, or even light dinners.
The origins of quiche can be traced to France, where it evolved as a popular savory pie filled with eggs, cream, and various ingredients. What sets this rustic goat cheese version apart is its earthy charm and bold flavors. Goat cheese adds a unique tanginess that complements the smooth custard, while seasonal vegetables or fresh herbs elevate its taste profile.
Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a slice of heaven, this quiche is a guaranteed showstopper. Plus, it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible option for any occasion. Ready to bring a touch of French countryside charm to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe.
2. Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
¼ teaspoon salt
3-4 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling:
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
5 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 cup baby spinach or arugula, chopped
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or herbs de Provence
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Pinch of salt
3. Directions
Prepare the Crust: Combine flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add chilled butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form a ball, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll the Dough: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle slightly larger than your quiche pan. Transfer the dough into the pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim any overhang and prick the base with a fork.
Blind Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 5 minutes until golden. Set aside.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth. Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and thyme.
Assemble the Quiche: Spread crumbled goat cheese evenly over the crust. Pour the egg mixture on top, spreading the vegetables evenly. Top with red onion slices for extra flavor.
Bake: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
4. How to Prepare
Start with a homemade crust to achieve that rustic charm. The key to a flaky crust lies in using chilled butter and handling the dough minimally. After blind baking the crust, focus on crafting the creamy filling. Goat cheese, with its tangy notes, forms the centerpiece of this dish, while the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes add freshness and depth.
Bake until the filling is set, ensuring you don’t overbake to preserve the custard’s creamy texture. Let the quiche rest after baking to make slicing easier and to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Preparation Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 6 as a main course or 8 as a side dish.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made crust works well if you’re short on time. Choose a high-quality one for the best results.
2. Can I substitute goat cheese?
Absolutely. Feta or cream cheese can be used, but goat cheese provides the best tangy flavor.
3. How do I store leftover quiche?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for crispness.
4. Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, bake the quiche the day before and refrigerate. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) before serving.
5. Can I customize the filling?
Definitely. Add mushrooms, roasted peppers, or bacon for a personalized touch.
8. Conclusion
The rustic goat cheese quiche is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. Its flaky crust, creamy filling, and flavorful mix of cheese, vegetables, and herbs make it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether it’s a casual brunch, a holiday gathering, or a quick dinner, this quiche is sure to impress.
The balance of textures and flavors in this dish highlights its elegance while keeping it approachable for everyday cooking. Plus, its make-ahead nature ensures that you can enjoy more time with family and friends. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the charm of this delightful French-inspired dish!
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