This Salmon and Spinach Quiche offers a perfect balance of smoky richness from the salmon paired with the fresh earthiness of spinach, all embraced by a tender, buttery crust. The creamy egg custard binds the flavors beautifully, making every bite smooth and indulgent.
It’s an ideal dish for brunch, light lunches, or dinner served alongside a crisp salad. Elegant yet simple, it caters to both casual meals and special occasions. The addition of fresh dill brings a subtle herbal note that lifts the entire dish, making it unforgettable for seafood lovers and quiche fans alike.
Full Recipe:
-
1 sheet frozen shortcrust pastry, thawed
-
200g smoked salmon, roughly chopped
-
150g fresh baby spinach
-
4 large eggs
-
1 cup (250ml) thickened cream or heavy cream
-
1/2 cup (50g) grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar work well)
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
-
Line a 9-inch (23cm) tart or quiche pan with the thawed pastry, trimming any excess edges. Prick the base lightly with a fork.
-
Blind bake the pastry for 10 minutes using baking paper and pie weights or dried beans to prevent puffing. Remove weights and bake an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
-
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in grated cheese and chopped dill.
-
Spread the cooked spinach and onion mixture evenly over the pastry base. Scatter chopped smoked salmon on top.
-
Pour the egg and cream mixture gently over the filling, ensuring even coverage.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
-
Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with extra dill if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction to Salmon and Spinach Quiche
Salmon and spinach quiche is a wonderfully versatile dish that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the fresh, earthy flavor of spinach in a creamy, custard-like filling baked inside a flaky pastry crust. This dish is beloved by many for its balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect option for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Whether you are entertaining guests or preparing a comforting meal for your family, salmon and spinach quiche offers an impressive presentation while being relatively simple to prepare.
The Appeal of Using Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon is an elegant ingredient that adds a distinct smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavor to the quiche. Unlike fresh salmon, smoked salmon is cured and often cold-smoked, which concentrates the taste and preserves the fish. This makes it ideal for dishes like quiche, where the smoky nuances infuse the custard and meld beautifully with creamy dairy components such as eggs and cream. Beyond flavor, smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
The Role of Spinach in the Dish
Spinach is a powerhouse leafy green that adds both color and nutritional value to the quiche. When cooked, spinach wilts down significantly, so it blends seamlessly into the custard without overwhelming the texture. It adds a subtle earthy note and a vibrant green hue, which contrasts nicely with the pinkish salmon and golden pastry. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber, making this quiche a balanced meal with plenty of health benefits.
Why the Pastry Matters
The base of any quiche is the pastry shell, which provides structure and a delightful textural contrast. A well-made shortcrust pastry offers a crisp, buttery foundation that holds the custard filling without becoming soggy. Blind baking the pastry before adding the filling is essential to prevent the crust from becoming mushy. The flakiness and slight crunch of the crust elevate the overall eating experience, giving each bite a satisfying combination of creamy and crisp textures.
Creamy Custard Filling: The Heart of Quiche
The custard filling in salmon and spinach quiche is a simple mixture of eggs and cream (or sometimes milk), whisked together to create a silky, smooth texture once baked. The richness of the cream balances the saltiness of the smoked salmon and the earthiness of the spinach, binding all elements together. Adding cheese such as Gruyère or cheddar enhances the flavor complexity and adds an additional layer of creaminess and slight nuttiness. Herbs like fresh dill or chives are often incorporated to lift the dish with subtle aromatic notes, complementing both the fish and the greens.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is not just a tasty dish but also packed with nutrients. Smoked salmon offers a great source of lean protein and healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health and brain function. Spinach contributes essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which promote overall wellness and boost the immune system. The eggs add further protein and vital nutrients such as vitamin D and B12. While the cream and cheese add calories and fat, using them in moderation keeps this dish rich but balanced.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about salmon and spinach quiche is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary requirements. For example, swapping smoked salmon for fresh cooked salmon or even other types of fish works well. For a vegetarian twist, omit the salmon and add mushrooms, leeks, or artichokes instead. Using a gluten-free pastry base or a vegetable crust like sweet potato or cauliflower crust can cater to gluten-free diets.
Herbs and spices can also be customized: dill is classic with salmon, but parsley, chives, or tarragon add different flavor profiles. For those wanting a lighter dish, substitute cream with half-and-half or milk. For added texture and flavor, try adding caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Salmon and spinach quiche is versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, or served at room temperature, making it ideal for buffet-style meals or picnic lunches. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or cherry tomatoes, complement the richness of the quiche well. For a heartier meal, a side of new potatoes or a light soup can be served alongside.
Tips for Perfect Quiche Every Time
Achieving a perfectly baked quiche involves a few key tips. First, ensure the pastry is blind baked to avoid a soggy crust. Second, be mindful not to overfill the tart shell; leave a small gap so the custard can expand without spilling. Third, whisk eggs and cream thoroughly to create a smooth custard, and season well to bring out the flavors. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause the custard to become rubbery; it should be just set with a slight wobble in the center when you take it out of the oven. Finally, allow the quiche to rest briefly before cutting to help it firm up and slice neatly.
The History and Popularity of Quiche
Quiche originated in the Lorraine region of France and has since become a global favorite for its simplicity and versatility. Traditionally made with bacon (quiche Lorraine), the concept has expanded into countless variations, including vegetarian and seafood options like this salmon and spinach version. Quiche’s appeal lies in its easy assembly, the ability to prepare it ahead of time, and its suitability for any meal of the day. It has become a staple for brunch menus worldwide and a go-to dish for gatherings and potlucks.
Why This Recipe Works for Every Occasion
The salmon and spinach quiche strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort food. Its flavors are sophisticated enough to serve at dinner parties or holiday brunches, yet it is straightforward enough for casual family meals. It accommodates a wide range of dietary preferences and can be adapted for gluten-free or lower-fat diets without sacrificing taste. Its portability and ease of reheating make it perfect for meal prep or picnics, giving it year-round appeal.
Conclusion
Salmon and spinach quiche is a timeless dish that beautifully showcases the harmony between smoky fish, fresh greens, and a rich custard in a flaky crust. It offers a nutrient-dense, flavorful meal that is perfect for a variety of occasions—whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a comforting homemade treat. The recipe’s versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser. With a few simple techniques, you can master this quiche to achieve a delicious, elegant dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
