How to Make French Vegetable Quiche from Scratch
French vegetable quiche is a delightful dish that combines a flaky crust with a rich filling of eggs, cream, and an array of vegetables. Making it from scratch not only allows you to customize the ingredients to your taste but also ensures a fresher, more flavorful result. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own French vegetable quiche.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 4–5 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your quiche bakes evenly.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the zucchini and chopped spinach, and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream (or milk), salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Stir in the cooled vegetables and grated cheese. Add fresh herbs if desired, and mix thoroughly.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about ¼ inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the sides and trimming off any excess dough.
Step 6: Assemble the Quiche
Pour the vegetable and egg mixture into the prepared crust, smoothing it out evenly. This mixture should fill the crust nearly to the top.
Step 7: Bake the Quiche
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set further.
Serve warm or at room temperature, with a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade French vegetable quiche!
Tips for the Perfect Quiche
- Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a protein boost if desired.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative.
Making French vegetable quiche from scratch is not only rewarding but also allows for endless variations. Enjoy this classic dish any time of year!