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Savory Spinach Ham and Cheese Quiche: A Delightful Dish for Any Occasion

Quiche, a dish originally hailing from the Lorraine region of France, has become a beloved staple in many households around the world. Its versatility and appealing flavour combinations make it a perfect choice for any mealtime. Among the myriad of quiche recipes available, Savory Spinach Ham and Cheese Quiche stands out as a particularly delicious option, beloved for its rich, creamy filling and satisfying balance of ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful quiche, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 250g plain flour
• 125g unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 1 large egg
• A pinch of salt
• Cold water, as needed

For the Filling:

• 200g fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 150g cooked ham, diced
• 150g grated cheese (Cheddar or a mix of your favourites)
• 3 large eggs
• 300ml double cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Preparing the Pastry

1. Make the Pastry: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the egg and add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it.

2. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to relax the gluten and results in a more tender crust.

Assembling the Quiche

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C) or 350°F.

2. Roll Out the Pastry: Once chilled, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to fit a 23cm (9-inch) tart tin. Carefully transfer the dough to the tin, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess pastry hanging over the edges.

3. Blind Bake: Line the pastry with baking parchment and fill with baking beans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove the parchment and beans, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the base is fully baked.

Creating the Filling

1. Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan with a splash of water for a few minutes until wilted. Drain and roughly chop.

2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and double cream until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg, if using. Fold in the diced ham, grated cheese, and chopped spinach until evenly combined.

Bringing it All Together

1. Fill the Pastry Case: Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked pastry case, spreading it evenly.

2. Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.

3. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner.

Conclusion

Savory Spinach Ham and Cheese Quiche is not only incredibly tasty but also showcases the perfect blend of flavours and textures. The creamy filling, paired with the earthiness of spinach and the savoury notes of ham, creates a dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served at a party, packed in a picnic, or simply enjoyed at home, this quiche is a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying dining experience. So, roll up your sleeves and give this classic quiche a try—you won’t regret it!