How to Make French Vegetable Quiche with a Flaky Crust
French vegetable quiche is a delicious and versatile dish that combines a flaky crust with an assortment of vegetables and a creamy filling. Making this savory pie is simpler than you might think, and the results are both delicious and visually appealing. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own French vegetable quiche with a flaky crust.
Ingredients
For the Flaky Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Gruyère or Cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
To create a flaky crust, start by mixing the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Before rolling out your crust, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the crust bakes evenly and achieves the perfect golden color.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish. Transfer the rolled dough to the dish and trim the edges, leaving a slight overhang. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
Consider blind-baking your crust for about 15 minutes with pie weights or dry beans before adding the filling to ensure a crisp texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetable Filling
While the crust bakes, prepare your vegetable filling. In a pan over medium heat, sauté the broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme if using.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. Stir in the shredded cheese and the sautéed vegetables.
Step 5: Assemble the Quiche
Once the crust is blind-baked and slightly cooled, pour the vegetable and egg mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. This helps ensure that each slice has a perfect balance of vegetables and creamy filling.
Step 6: Bake the Quiche
Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating that it is fully cooked.
Step 7: Let It Cool and Serve
After baking, let the quiche cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and present. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Final Tips
Experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste or seasonal availability. Zucchini, mushrooms, and asparagus are excellent alternatives. You can also add herbs like parsley or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
This French vegetable quiche with a flaky crust not only makes a delightful brunch option but can also be a hit at dinner parties or gatherings. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite of this delicious dish!