Asparagus is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. One delightful way to enjoy asparagus is by incorporating it into a savory and creamy quiche.
This article presents a scrumptious asparagus quiche recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Alongside the recipe, we will provide helpful tips to ensure your quiche turns out perfectly every time. So, put on your chef’s hat and let’s get cooking!
Asparagus Quiche Recipe
Ingredients
To create a mouthwatering asparagus quiche, gather the following ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed and spears cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of nutmeg
- some tomatoes, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, while pulsing, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish and trim any excess.
- In a pot of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus spears for 2 minutes, then drain and plunge them into ice water to retain their vibrant green color. Drain once again and pat dry.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the prepared crust. Arrange the blanched asparagus spears on top, and the sliced tomatoes if you use.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined. Pour the mixture over the asparagus and cheese in the pie dish.
- Carefully transfer the quiche to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for a Perfect Asparagus Quiche
- Choose fresh asparagus: Look for firm and bright green asparagus stalks with tightly closed tips. Avoid wilted or slimy stalks, as they indicate age.
- Pre-bake the crust: To ensure a crisp and flaky crust, consider pre-baking it for a few minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent a soggy bottom.
- Experiment with cheese: While Gruyere and Swiss cheese complement asparagus well, feel free to experiment with other varieties like cheddar, goat cheese, or feta for added flavor profiles.
- Season creatively: Enhance the flavor of your quiche by adding a touch of herbs such as fresh thyme, dill, or tarragon to the egg and cream mixture.
- Customize with additional ingredients: Expand your quiche’s flavor palette by incorporating ingredients like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. However, be mindful not to overcrowd the filling.
Indulge in the delightful flavors of asparagus with this irresistible asparagus quiche recipe. The creamy and savory filling perfectly complements the fresh and vibrant asparagus spears, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress.
By following the recipe and implementing the provided tips, you can create a picture-perfect quiche that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure to savor the deliciousness of this asparagus quiche!
