Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy ricotta and fresh spinach come together to create a rich, satisfying flavor.
- Nutrient-Packed: With spinach and ricotta, this dish provides essential vitamins and protein, making it a healthier option for any meal.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, and great for meal prep.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit dietary needs like gluten-free or low-fat options.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Mix the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (optional) until smooth.
- Assemble the Quiche: Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust. Pour the ricotta mixture over the spinach.
- Bake: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the quiche is golden and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Low-fat: Use part-skim ricotta and light cream to reduce fat content.
- Gluten-free: Replace the pie crust with a gluten-free option.
- Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or herbs like basil can be added for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or feta can be used as alternatives to ricotta for a different flavor profile.
3. How do I know when the quiche is done?
The quiche is done when the center is set, and a knife inserted comes out clean.
4. Can I make the quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and bake the quiche ahead of time. Just refrigerate it and reheat before serving.
5. How long can I store the quiche?
The quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
6. Can I make this recipe without the crust?
Yes, you can make a crustless version for a lighter meal or to reduce carbs.
7. Can I freeze the quiche?
Yes, quiche can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until fully heated through.
9. Is this quiche suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this quiche is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat.
10. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made pie crust saves time and works perfectly for this quiche.
Conclusion
This Ricotta Spinach Quiche is a crowd-pleasing dish that offers both comfort and nutrition. With its creamy filling, flaky crust, and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch or enjoying it as a light dinner, this quiche will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen
Ricotta Spinach Quiche: A Savory Delight
Ricotta Spinach Quiche is a savory, flavorful dish made with a creamy ricotta filling and fresh spinach, all nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche offers a delightful balance of rich cheese and vibrant greens, making it a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 55-65 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Prepare the Spinach Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
-
Prepare the Quiche Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream (or milk), oregano, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Stir in the cooled spinach mixture until well combined.
-
Assemble the Quiche:
- Pour the spinach and ricotta filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top.
-
Bake the Quiche:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
-
Serve:
- Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes:
- Crustless Version: For a lower-carb option, you can skip the pie crust and bake the filling directly in a greased pie dish.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, mushrooms, or bell peppers for additional flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This quiche can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Notes
- Crustless Version: For a lower-carb option, you can skip the pie crust and bake the filling directly in a greased pie dish.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked mushrooms, or bell peppers for additional flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This quiche can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated.