Broccoli Quiche
If you’re in the mood for a comforting yet sophisticated dish, look no further than this delightful broccoli quiche. It’s a perfect blend of creamy goat cheese and fresh broccoli, encased in a flaky pastry crust that is simply irresistible. This quiche is not only a delicious option for brunch but also makes a fantastic dinner paired with a light salad. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious broccoli quiche!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This broccoli quiche is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll adore it:
– The combination of broccoli and goat cheese provides a wonderful balance of earthy and tangy flavors.
– It’s incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even cold.
– Perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
– The recipe is simple to follow and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
Ingredient Rundown
To create this delicious broccoli quiche, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and a healthy touch.
- 8 ounces goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, goat cheese elevates the flavor profile of the quiche.
- 1 pastry dough: A flaky crust that holds everything together beautifully.
- 3 eggs: The binding agent that provides structure and richness.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: For a creamy, luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- Whisk: To beat the eggs and mix the cream.
- 9-inch pie dish: The perfect size for your quiche.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the broccoli.
- Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot dishes!
Cooking Broccoli Quiche: The Process
Follow these simple steps to create your broccoli quiche:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your quiche bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and chop it into small florets. You want them bite-sized for easy eating.
Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until it’s bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Pastry Dough
If you’re using store-bought pastry dough, roll it out and fit it into your 9-inch pie dish. If homemade, roll out your dough and place it in the dish. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Step 5: Combine the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in the blanched broccoli and crumbled goat cheese.
Step 6: Fill the Crust
Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared pastry crust, spreading it out evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Quiche
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set further and makes it easier to cut.
Seasonal Flavor Boosts
To make your broccoli quiche even more exciting, consider adding these seasonal flavor boosts:
- Cherry tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Fresh herbs: Toss in some chopped basil or parsley for freshness.
- Spinach: Incorporate fresh spinach for added greens and flavor.
- Caramelized onions: Sweet and savory, caramelized onions make a delicious addition.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This broccoli quiche is highly adaptable! Feel free to swap out the goat cheese for feta or cheddar if you prefer. Additionally, you can use whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.
- Make sure not to over-blanch the broccoli; it should remain bright green and slightly crisp.
- If you want a more savory flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the egg mixture.
- To save time, you can prepare the pastry dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your broccoli quiche fresh after cooking, here are some helpful storage tips:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Reader Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese is flavorful, you can substitute it with feta, cheddar, or even mozzarella depending on your taste preferences.
How do I know when the quiche is done baking?
The quiche is done when the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle in the center. A light golden top is also a good indicator!
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the quiche a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with broccoli quiche?
This quiche pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that your broccoli quiche is ready, slice it up and serve it warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a delightful meal. The rich flavors of the goat cheese combined with the earthy broccoli create a dish that is not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy your culinary creation and don’t forget to share the love with friends and family!
Creating your own broccoli quiche is a rewarding experience that showcases your culinary skills while delivering a delicious meal. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, this quiche is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
Broccoli Quiche
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly and chop it into small florets.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- If using store-bought pastry dough, roll it out and fit it into your 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the blanched broccoli and crumbled goat cheese.
- Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into the prepared pastry crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow the quiche to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Make sure not to over-blanch the broccoli; it should remain bright green and slightly crisp.
- If you want a more savory flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
- Prepare the pastry dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
