Ricotta Spinach Quiche

Introduction

Ricotta Spinach Quiche is one of those dishes that always feels like a treat, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make. The creamy ricotta cheese pairs beautifully with the freshness of spinach, creating a flavorful filling that’s nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch, a cozy breakfast, or even a light dinner, this quiche is versatile enough to work for any occasion. It’s the kind of dish that looks elegant on the table but doesn’t take much effort to prepare—perfect for busy mornings or laid-back weekends.

I love making Ricotta Spinach Quiche when I want something that feels hearty but still light. The texture of the ricotta is so rich and smooth, and the spinach adds a pop of freshness that makes each bite feel satisfying without being too heavy. It’s one of those dishes that works for everyone, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making it for yourself.

Plus, the best part is that this quiche is so customizable! You can throw in a little extra cheese, add some sautéed mushrooms, or even switch up the greens if spinach isn’t your thing. It’s a recipe that can easily become your own, and it’s sure to impress whoever you’re serving it to. I promise you, once you try it, this Ricotta Spinach Quiche will become a regular in your kitchen!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast or brunch
• Light dinners
• Meal prep for the week
• Serving guests at a gathering
• A healthy option for a comforting dish

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Spinach Quiche

Here’s why Ricotta Spinach Quiche will become one of your favorite dishes:

• Creamy and Smooth Texture: The ricotta cheese adds a creamy richness to the quiche, balancing the earthy flavor of the spinach for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Perfectly Flaky Crust: The buttery, flaky crust provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling, making each bite a delicious combination of textures.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily add extra ingredients like mushrooms, onions, or sun-dried tomatoes to personalize the quiche to your taste.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This quiche can be made ahead and stored, making it a perfect option for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with spinach, ricotta, and eggs, this quiche is a great source of protein and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

To make Ricotta Spinach Quiche, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like basil or parsley), chopped (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a light texture and rich flavor to the quiche without being too heavy.
• Spinach: Spinach is not only packed with nutrients like iron and vitamins but also adds a vibrant green color and earthy flavor to the quiche.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella brings a melt-in-your-mouth creaminess that complements the ricotta and enhances the quiche’s overall texture.
• Eggs and Heavy Cream: These ingredients create a custard-like base that holds everything together and provides a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Olive Oil and Garlic: The olive oil helps sauté the spinach and onions, while garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Ricotta Spinach Quiche is easy and quick. Follow these steps:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Spinach: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes (if using frozen spinach, cook until heated through). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Whisk the Eggs and Cream: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
3. Combine the Spinach and Egg Mixture: Once the spinach mixture has cooled slightly, fold it into the egg and ricotta mixture. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh herbs, if using.

Assemble the Quiche:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Prepare the Pie Crust: If using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside. If you’re using homemade crust, make sure it’s rolled out and ready for the filling.
6. Pour the Filling into the Crust: Pour the spinach and ricotta mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake the Quiche: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the quiche is golden on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Cool and Serve:

8. Cool Before Serving: Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.
9. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature with a simple salad or fresh fruit on the side.

How to Serve Ricotta Spinach Quiche

Ricotta Spinach Quiche can be served in various ways:

• For Brunch or Breakfast: Serve it alongside fresh fruit, croissants, or a refreshing fruit salad for a light but satisfying meal.
• With a Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the quiche.
• As a Light Dinner: Pair it with roasted vegetables or a tomato salad for a well-rounded meal.
• With a Cup of Soup: Serve with a warm soup like tomato or butternut squash for a cozy and comforting meal.
• Cold or Room Temperature: This quiche is just as delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for picnics or potlucks.

Additional Tips for Ricotta Spinach Quiche

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Ricotta Spinach Quiche turns out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach is convenient, fresh spinach will give the quiche a better texture and flavor. Be sure to squeeze out excess water from frozen spinach to avoid a soggy quiche.
• Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to swap the mozzarella for goat cheese, feta, or even sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
• Make It Ahead: Quiche can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven or serve it cold.

Recipe Variations for Ricotta Spinach Quiche

Here are 10 variations you can try for Ricotta Spinach Quiche:

• Mushroom Spinach Quiche: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for an earthy flavor that pairs well with spinach.
• Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Quiche: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, savory twist.
• Bacon and Spinach Quiche: Add crispy bacon for a smoky flavor that complements the spinach and ricotta.
• Feta and Spinach Quiche: Swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangier, saltier quiche.
• Zucchini Spinach Quiche: Add thinly sliced zucchini for a light and fresh addition.
• Leek and Spinach Quiche: Sauté leeks with spinach for a mild, sweet onion flavor.
• Cheddar and Spinach Quiche: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor.
• Herb and Spinach Quiche: Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill for a fragrant boost.
• Sweet Potato Spinach Quiche: Add roasted sweet potatoes to the filling for a slightly sweet and hearty twist.
• Tomato and Spinach Quiche: Add fresh diced tomatoes for a burst of color and juicy flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked quiche for up to 2-3 months. Simply assemble the quiche, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then with foil before freezing. To bake from frozen, cook it for 1 hour at 375°F, covering the edges with foil if needed.
• Storage: Store leftover quiche in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Ricotta Spinach Quiche

Here are some special equipment items that will make preparing your Ricotta Spinach Quiche easier:

• Pie Dish: A 9-inch pie dish is perfect for making this quiche.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the eggs, cream, and ricotta cheese smoothly.
• Skillet: A large skillet is needed to sauté the spinach and onions.
• Sifter: A sifter is useful for evenly adding the Parmesan or other powdered ingredients to the mixture.
• Pastry Brush: If using a homemade pie crust, a pastry brush can help you apply an egg wash for a golden finish.

FAQ Section for Ricotta Spinach Quiche

1. Can I use a store-bought crust for this quiche?
   Yes, using a pre-made pie crust is a convenient option, and it works perfectly for this recipe.
2. Can I make this quiche dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute ricotta cheese with a dairy-free cheese option and use a non-dairy cream alternative for the filling.
3. Can I add meat to this quiche?
   Absolutely! Adding cooked bacon, sausage, or ham would be a great addition to the filling.
4. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
   Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach to remove excess moisture, which could make the quiche soggy.
5. Can I serve this quiche cold?
   Yes, this quiche is delicious both warm and cold, making it perfect for picnics or make-ahead meals.

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Conclusion

Ricotta Spinach Quiche is a deliciously simple dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese with fresh spinach in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this versatile quiche is perfect for any occasion. The balance of flavors and textures makes it both light and satisfying, while the flexibility of the recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite add-ins, such as mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of cheese.

This quiche is perfect for meal prep, as it can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or chilled the next day for an easy, grab-and-go meal. It’s a great option for gatherings or a comforting family dinner, and with minimal effort, you can create a dish that looks and tastes impressive. The delicate, custard-like filling and flaky crust come together perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.

I can’t wait to see how your Ricotta Spinach Quiche turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your creations! Feel free to leave a comment with any variations or tips you tried. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish!