If you’re looking for a dish that’s both impressive and approachable, this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and a flaky crust into a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures that feels fancy but comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re serving brunch guests or treating yourself to a comforting lunch, this quiche is a crowd-pleaser that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery crust that provides a tender base to the creamy filling enriched with eggs and cream, this simple yet essential lineup ensures your quiche will be perfectly balanced and irresistible.
- Pie crust: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch, providing a flaky, buttery foundation.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and is perfect for gently sautéing the onion and spinach without overpowering them.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and depth when sautéed, enhancing the filling’s flavor.
- Fresh spinach, chopped: Offers vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with ricotta.
- Ricotta cheese: The star of the filling, creating a luscious, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Large eggs: They bind the filling together, adding structure and richness.
- Heavy cream: Intensifies the creaminess of the filling, making every bite silky smooth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that balances the mildness of ricotta and spinach.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors to life.
- Pinch of nutmeg: A little warmth and subtle spice that perfectly complements creamy dishes like quiche.
How to Make Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently to fit snugly along the edges. To keep it from puffing up during baking, prick the bottom with a fork several times. Pop it into the oven for about 10 minutes until it’s just beginning to set but not browned. This step ensures you get a crisp, flaky base that won’t get soggy once the filling goes in.
Step 2: Sauté the onion and spinach
While your crust is pre-baking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Toss in the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated. This step intensifies the spinach’s flavor and ensures the filling won’t be watery.
Step 3: Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk together until smooth and creamy, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Fold the sautéed onions and spinach gently into this mixture, distributing everything evenly without breaking up the ricotta too much. This creates a harmonious filling that’s rich, flavorful, and beautifully textured.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
Pour the ricotta and spinach filling into your pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center springs back lightly to the touch, the top is golden, and the edges have pulled slightly away from the crust. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, so the quiche sets perfectly and the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe even further, try garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped basil or chives. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds a lovely finishing touch. The visual contrast these garnishes bring will make your quiche even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Because this quiche is so rich and flavorful, lighter sides work best. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or fresh tomato slices with a sprinkle of sea salt. Crispy roasted potatoes or a simple fruit salad can also complement the dish, turning your meal into a colorful and balanced experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch or luncheon, slice the quiche into neat wedges and serve on colorful plates. You could also prepare mini versions in muffin tins for individual servings that look adorable and are perfect for gatherings. Another idea is to serve alongside warm, crusty bread and a dollop of herb-infused sour cream to add layers of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover quiche tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers just as delightful as when freshly baked.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked quiche by wrapping it tightly in foil and then plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warm through. This method preserves the crispy crust better than microwaving, which can make it soggy, though microwaves work well if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess water before sautéing to avoid a watery filling in your Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe.
Is it possible to make this quiche gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the traditional pie crust for a gluten-free version, which you can find pre-made or make yourself at home using almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.
Can I substitute the ricotta with another cheese?
You can, but ricotta’s mild, creamy texture is central to this quiche’s character. Cottage cheese or cream cheese may alter the consistency and flavor, but feel free to experiment to suit your taste.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Pre-baking the crust and sautéing the vegetables until most moisture evaporates are key steps that protect the crust from sogginess in this Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe.
Can this quiche be served cold?
Definitely! Many people enjoy quiche cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for picnics, buffets, or quick snacks.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe that feels both comforting and sophisticated. It’s the perfect dish to bring warmth and joy to any table, whether for family meals or special occasions. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite quiche that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche is a flavorful and sophisticated dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Featuring a flaky pie crust filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture seasoned with Parmesan, nutmeg, and a touch of olive oil-sautéed onions, this quiche balances rich textures and fresh flavors for an impressive yet easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch quiche or pie dish, pressing it gently against the sides and bottom. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust a few times to prevent bubbling during baking.
- Sauté the aromatics and spinach: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy. Stir in the sautéed onion and spinach mixture.
- Assemble the quiche: Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the quiche: Place the quiche on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, blind bake the pie crust for 8-10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach; be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before sautéing.
- This quiche can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently in the oven.
- Additions like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs such as thyme or basil can be included for extra flavor.
- Use low-fat ricotta and cream if you prefer a lighter version.
