Looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution? Try this easy homemade broccoli and cheese quiche made with fresh broccoli and melted cheese, perfect for a family favorite meal, save for later

Broccoli and Cheese Quiche

Introduction

Imagine a dish that embodies the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and creativity, all while utilizing everyday ingredients that are easily accessible. The Broccoli and Cheese Quiche is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the freshness of broccoli, the richness of cheese, and the simplicity of a quiche, making it an ideal choice for brunch, dinner, or even as a snack. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, allowing anyone to create a masterpiece that will impress both family and friends. With its versatile nature, you can enjoy it hot or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of broccoli and cheese provides a well-balanced flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet, making it appealing to a wide range of tastes. The ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making it easy to prepare.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making the Broccoli and Cheese Quiche are straightforward and require minimal cooking skills. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a quick and delicious meal.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the quiche presents beautifully, with the golden crust and the vibrant green of the broccoli making it a visually appealing dish. The combination of textures, from the crunch of the broccoli to the creaminess of the cheese, adds to its appeal, making it a dish that is sure to impress.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include broccoli, which provides a burst of freshness and nutrition; cheese, which adds richness and depth to the dish; eggs, which serve as the binding agent; and pastry dough, which forms the crust of the quiche. For the cheese, you can use a combination of cheddar and parmesan for a sharp and salty flavor. If you’re looking for substitutions, spinach or kale can be used instead of broccoli, and different types of cheese like mozzarella or feta can add unique flavor profiles to the dish.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into small florets, grate the cheese, and roll out the pastry dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli and cook until it’s tender but still crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Step 3: Place the rolled-out pastry dough into the tart pan, trimming any excess dough from the edges. Fill the pastry shell with the cooked broccoli, then pour the egg and cheese mixture over the broccoli.
4. Step 4: Bake the quiche for about 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the crust doesn’t become too brown, you can cover the edges with foil or a pie shield for part of the baking time. Also, don’t overmix the egg and cheese mixture to prevent the quiche from becoming too dense. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before using it to avoid a soggy quiche.

Heat Control

Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for baking the quiche. The ideal temperature is 375°F (190°C), and it’s essential to not open the oven door too frequently during the baking time to ensure even cooking. The quiche is done when the edges are golden brown, and the center is just set. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause the eggs to become too firm and the crust to become too brown.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture is key to the enjoyment of the Broccoli and Cheese Quiche. The broccoli should retain some crunch, while the pastry should be flaky and not too hard. The cheese and egg mixture should be creamy and set. To achieve this balance, make sure not to overcook the broccoli and to bake the quiche until it’s just set in the center.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a flaky crust, keep the pastry dough cold and handle it as little as possible. Blind baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can also help prevent it from becoming soggy. Additionally, using room temperature eggs can help the quiche cook more evenly and prevent it from puffing up too much in the oven.

Storage Tips

• The Broccoli and Cheese Quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For reheating, a few minutes in the microwave or a longer period in the oven at a lower temperature can help restore its freshness. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best to freeze it without the crust, as the crust can become soggy when thawed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re planning to give the Broccoli and Cheese Quiche as a gift, consider packaging it in a decorative tin or a nicely wrapped box. Adding a ribbon or a gift tag with baking instructions can make it a thoughtful and personalized gift. You could also include a side of salad or a bottle of wine to complement the quiche, making it a complete and appreciated gift.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give the quiche a unique twist. You can also use herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement the broccoli and cheese.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Consider adding some caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms on top of the quiche before baking for added flavor and texture.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Using different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, can provide a tangy flavor. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for a change of pace.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the quiche turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the egg and cheese mixture. If it’s too soggy, the broccoli might have been too wet or the crust not baked enough.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, consider what can be used as a substitute. For example, if you don’t have cheddar, you can use another type of cheese with a similar sharpness.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the quiche while it’s baking. If the edges start to get too brown, it might be a sign that it’s overcooking. Conversely, if the center is still very jiggly, it needs more time in the oven.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the quiche can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the crust to prevent sogginess. Reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe includes pastry dough that contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pastry dough or substituting the crust with a gluten-free alternative.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve a larger crowd. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the baking time slightly for a larger quiche.

Conclusion

The Broccoli and Cheese Quiche is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With its easy preparation, impressive presentation, and ability to be customized with various ingredients, it’s a recipe that can be shared and adapted in many ways. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this quiche is sure to become a favorite. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!