Here is the complete recipe profile for Ricotta Spinach Quiche Delight, with all required sections included and wide lines removed:
Introduction
Ricotta Spinach Quiche Delight is a light yet satisfying dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a vegetarian dinner. This savory pie combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with tender spinach, eggs, and a flaky pie crust, making every bite a balance of flavor and texture. It’s simple to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Quiche is a classic dish with French roots, most notably the beloved Quiche Lorraine. Over the years, quiche has become a global favorite, adaptable to various cultures and ingredients. The use of ricotta and spinach offers a Mediterranean twist, bringing together the French technique and Italian flavor profiles. This quiche honors culinary fusion—where comfort and sophistication meet.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Optional Additions
- ¼ cup sautéed onions or leeks for added depth
- Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for color and sweetness
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese for tang
- Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme
- A dash of chili flakes for mild heat
Tips for Success
- Blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before filling to avoid sogginess.
- Use fresh spinach for better texture, but if using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
- Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing for neater portions.
- Beat the eggs thoroughly with cream for a silky custard consistency.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blind-bake crust: Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes and remove from oven.
- Prepare filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Assemble quiche: Pour the mixture into the pre-baked crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Cool and serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Description
This quiche delivers a creamy, cheesy center packed with spinach and hints of nutty Parmesan, nestled in a flaky golden crust. The ricotta adds a subtle richness without overwhelming the freshness of the spinach, while the custard provides a delicate structure that holds it all together beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Per slice, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~240
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: ~330mg
Conclusion
Ricotta Spinach Quiche Delight is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed at brunch with a light salad or packed for a picnic, it’s a go-to recipe that brings comfort and elegance in equal measure.
Recommendation
Pair with a crisp green salad, a fruit medley, or a sparkling beverage for a full meal. Leftovers keep well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or lightly reheated—making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This quiche is a perfect example of healthful indulgence. The creamy filling and cheesy goodness feel rich and comforting, while wholesome ingredients like spinach and ricotta provide protein, calcium, and iron. By embracing portion control and mindful ingredients, you can enjoy this satisfying dish as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Would you like a crustless or gluten-free variation next?