When you want a brunch or lunch centerpiece that’s irresistibly creamy, savory, and full of fresh green flavor, Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche is the answer. Imagine a buttery homemade crust holding a silky filling of ricotta, gently sautéed spinach, onions, and just enough nutmeg to perk up every bite. This quiche is just as welcome at a chic gathering as it is for a cozy breakfast, making it perfect for any occasion! Every ingredient works together to create a dish that’s both comforting and stylish — a real showstopper that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making an Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche is so rewarding because every ingredient truly shines. This list is short and sweet, yet each component brings a distinct taste, rich aroma, or lovely texture that elevates the quiche and makes it hard to resist a second slice!
- All-purpose flour: Basic pantry staple that creates a tender, flaky crust for your quiche base.
- Salt: Just the right pinch sharpens flavors and balances the buttery richness of the crust.
- Cold unsalted butter: Chilled butter is crucial for achieving those melt-in-your-mouth layers in the crust.
- Cold water: Adds moisture while keeping the dough pebbly and light; always add gradually!
- Ricotta cheese: The creamy heart of the filling, lending delicate flavor and luscious texture.
- Eggs: These provide structure, giving the Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche its signature custardy feel.
- Milk or cream: Use cream for extra richness, or milk for a lighter finish—either will make the filling luxuriously smooth.
- Fresh spinach: Freshly chopped spinach adds vibrant color and subtle earthiness; thawed frozen spinach works too in a pinch.
- Parmesan or Gruyère: Just a hint of sharp, nutty cheese boosts the flavor without overpowering.
- Onion: Finely diced onion brings sweetness and balance to the filling.
- Garlic: One clove infuses each bite with gentle aromatic warmth.
- Salt & pepper: A dash of seasoning brings everything to life; always taste and adjust!
- Nutmeg (optional): A tiny pinch imparts a subtle depth that makes the quiche unforgettable.
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): For juicy bursts of flavor and a gorgeous pop of color on top.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Parsley, thyme, or chives transform every serving into something extra special.
How to Make Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start with the crust — the unsung hero of every great quiche! Mix your flour and salt together, then work in the cold, cubed butter until your mixture resembles coarse sand. Add the cold water, little by little, to bring it all together into a dough (don’t overwork it!). Chill the dough for 30 minutes for that perfect flaky texture, then roll it out and line your tart pan. Give it one last 10-minute chill—trust me, it’s worth it for that melt-in-the-mouth bite.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Blind Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Blind baking is the secret to a crisp, never-soggy base—simply line the crust with parchment, fill with weights or dry beans, and bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes to set that beautiful golden edge.
Step 3: Prepare the Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche Filling
Get your filling savory and aromatic by sautéing onion and garlic gently until soft, then toss in the spinach to wilt and mingle those flavors. Let this mixture cool off a bit while you whisk together ricotta, eggs, milk (or cream), cheese, salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg in a big bowl. Fold the spinach combo into your creamy mixture—this is where the magic really happens!
Step 4: Assemble the Quiche
Pour your rich, green-flecked filling into the crust, getting it right up to the edges. If you’re craving extra color or a touch of sweetness, tuck halved cherry tomatoes on top, or sprinkle with a bit more cheese for that irresistible, golden finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche is softly set and just kissed with golden brown on top. Let it cool for 10 minutes to ensure clean, creamy slices — although waiting is the hardest part!
How to Serve Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs—think chopped chives, parsley, or fragrant thyme—adds instant elegance and a burst of freshness to each wedge. For extra flair, arrange a few extra cherry tomato halves or even a dusting of Parmesan right before serving; your Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche will look and taste like a masterpiece.
Side Dishes
This quiche plays well with so many sides! A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is classic, while roasted asparagus, a simple fruit salad, or even some herby potatoes turn your meal into a real feast. These companions let the flavors of the Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche shine bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the traditional slice! Try cutting your quiche into mini wedges or cubes for canapés at parties, or offer individual tartlets for brunch. Layer slices on a wooden board with fruit, olives, and cheeses for a chic grazing platter—Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche always steals the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche (lucky you!), let it cool fully, then store slices in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, ready for a quick lunch or savory snack on the go.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this quiche for later enjoyment! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for more, thaw overnight in the fridge. The texture and flavor hold up beautifully—even after freezing.
Reheating
To bring your Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche back to its creamy, just-baked glory, simply reheat gently in a 160°C / 325°F oven for about 10 minutes. For quick lunches, the microwave works too, but the oven keeps the crust crisp and the filling luscious.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought crust for this quiche?
Absolutely! While making your own crust adds a special touch, a quality store-bought crust is a great time-saver and still lets the Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche filling shine.
What’s the best cheese to use in the filling?
Ricotta is the star, but for extra flavor, Gruyère and Parmesan can’t be beat. Feel free to experiment with your favorites—Fontina, goat cheese, or even a touch of feta can work wonderfully.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour or use a gluten-free pie crust from the store. The filling for Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche is naturally gluten-free, so only the crust needs adjusting.
How do I tell if the quiche is finished baking?
The center should be just set and not too jiggly when you gently shake the pan. A light golden color and a knife that comes out clean from the middle are your best clues.
What are some veggie add-ins I can try?
Feel free to get creative with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, leeks, or even shredded zucchini (just squeeze out extra moisture first). As long as you don’t overload the filling, the Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche can handle almost any seasonal spin.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried baking a quiche from scratch, let this be the moment you treat yourself. Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for brunches, potlucks, or just a special night in. Give it a try and watch everyone fall in love—starting with yourself!