Asparagus Quiche: A Savory Spring Delight
How to Cook Asparagus Quiche: A Savory and Satisfying Dish
Quiche, a classic French dish, is a savory pastry filled with a creamy custard and various fillings, such as vegetables, cheese, and meat. Asparagus quiche is a particularly delightful variation that combines the delicate flavor of asparagus with a rich and creamy filling. This versatile dish can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and it's sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
To Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Use your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it for at least 30 minutes.
To Make the Filling:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and asparagus and cook until the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg.
- Stir in the Parmesan and Gruyère cheeses.
To Assemble and Bake the Quiche:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate and trim the edges.
- Prick the bottom of the dough with a fork.
- Spread the asparagus mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream.
- Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let the quiche cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian quiche, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon to the filling for a smoky flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as feta, cheddar, or mozzarella.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or dill, to the filling.
Tips:
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, pre-bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- If you don't have a pie plate, you can use a 9-inch springform pan.
- Quiche can be served warm or cold. It's also a great dish to make ahead of time.
Conclusion:
Asparagus quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and tender asparagus, it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So next time you're looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal, give asparagus quiche a try.
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen asparagus in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it completely before using it.
- What other vegetables can I add to this quiche?
You can add any vegetables you like to this quiche. Some popular options include spinach, broccoli, and mushrooms.
- Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this quiche ahead of time. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- How do I know when the quiche is done baking?
The quiche is done baking when the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can insert a toothpick into the center of the quiche. If it comes out clean, the quiche is done.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with asparagus quiche?
Asparagus quiche can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as salad, roasted vegetables, or fruit.
