Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 40–50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Yield: 6–8 slices

• Difficulty: Easy to Medium

• Intensity: Low

• Cuisine: European / Italian-inspired

• Best For: Brunch, lunch, light dinner, special occasions

Why You’ll Love This Quiche

This Ricotta and Spinach Quiche is everything you want in an elegant dish—it’s light yet satisfying, creamy without being too rich, and full of subtle, savory flavor. The creamy ricotta pairs perfectly with earthy spinach, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic herbs, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust.

It’s beautiful to serve for brunch gatherings, bridal showers, Mother’s Day, Easter, or even as a make-ahead weekday lunch. This recipe also happens to be highly customizable and beginner-friendly.

Ingredients

 For the Quiche Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small shallot, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 oz (170g) fresh baby spinach

• ¾ cup whole-milk ricotta cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup whole milk or half-and-half

• 4 large eggs

• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)

 For the Crust:

• 1 store-bought 9-inch pie crust or homemade (see notes below)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese for tang

• ¼ cup sautéed mushrooms

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

• 2 tablespoons pine nuts (lightly toasted)

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch tart pan or pie dish

• Mixing bowls

• Whisk

• Skillet

• Baking sheet (to catch drips)

• Cooling rack

How to Make Elegant Ricotta and Spinach Quiche

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• If using a store-bought crust, allow it to come to room temperature, unroll it, and gently press into your tart pan or pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.

3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. If there’s excess moisture, pat it dry with paper towels or press gently in a strainer.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta, and milk until smooth.

2. Stir in the Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and optional herbs.

3. Gently fold in the sautéed spinach mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Quiche

1. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.

2. Smooth the top with a spatula.

3. Optional: Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or dollop ricotta on top for a rustic finish.

Step 5: Bake the Quiche

• Place on a baking sheet to catch any overflow.

• Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is lightly golden.

• A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Let cool on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

• Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Serving Suggestions

This quiche pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp arugula or baby greens salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Fresh fruit or fruit compote

• Roasted tomatoes or asparagus

• Sparkling wine or a light rosé

It’s perfect for:

• Brunch parties

• Holiday breakfasts

• Picnic lunches

• Elegant vegetarian dinners

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make ahead: Bake quiche 1–2 days in advance and store in the fridge.

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F from frozen or thaw overnight.

Homemade Pie Crust (Optional)

If you’d like to make your own crust:

Ingredients:

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 3–5 tablespoons ice water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk flour and salt.

2. Cut in butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until crumbly.

3. Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until dough forms.

4. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour before rolling out.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice, Approximate – Based on 8 slices)

Values may vary depending on add-ins and crust used.