Embark on a Culinary Journey with Mediterranean Quiche
Welcome to a taste of the Mediterranean, where the vibrant flavors of Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes come together in a delightful Mediterranean Quiche. This dish is a perfect symphony of savory and tangy notes, encased in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you’re looking for an indulgent breakfast, a hearty brunch, or a light dinner, this quiche will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
Our recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a nod to the healthful eating patterns of the region. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. So, let’s dive into the world of Mediterranean cuisine and uncover the secrets to making this exquisite quiche.
Recipe Details and Background
The inspiration for this Mediterranean Quiche comes from the coastal regions of the Mediterranean, where olives and sun-dried tomatoes are staples in local cuisines. The use of Kalamata olives, named after the city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese peninsula of Greece, adds a distinct, rich flavor that is both fruity and slightly smoky. Sun-dried tomatoes, a quintessential Italian ingredient, provide a concentrated burst of sweetness and umami that complements the briny olives beautifully.
In many Mediterranean countries, quiche is not a traditional dish. However, the concept of a savory tart filled with the freshest produce from the land and sea is deeply rooted in the region’s culinary practices. This particular quiche is a fusion of flavors reminiscent of a Greek salad or an Italian antipasto, baked into a French-style custard tart.
The inclusion of feta, a brined curd white cheese from Greece, and Parmesan, a hard, granular cheese from Italy, brings together the diverse cheese-making traditions of the Mediterranean. The aromatic oregano and the peppery olive oil further enhance the dish, tying all the ingredients into a harmonious blend that is both comforting and exotic.
Whether served at a casual family gathering or as part of a festive brunch spread, this quiche is sure to impress. It’s a celebration of the Mediterranean lifestyle, where food is about sharing, freshness, and simplicity.
The Method: Crafting the Perfect Mediterranean Quiche
Creating the perfect Mediterranean Quiche is an art that combines simple techniques with quality ingredients. Here are some chef’s tips to elevate your quiche:
Crust Perfection: Whether you choose a pre-made crust or make your own, ensure it’s properly blind-baked to avoid a soggy bottom. For homemade dough, chilling it before rolling and again before baking can make all the difference in texture.
Custard Consistency: The ratio of eggs to cream is crucial for a silky, custard-like filling. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and aerated, but be careful not to overmix, as incorporating too much air can cause the quiche to puff up and then fall.
Balanced Flavors: The olives and sun-dried tomatoes are quite salty and tangy, so taste them before seasoning the egg mixture. Adjust the salt and pepper accordingly, and remember that the cheeses will also add saltiness to the dish.
Even Distribution: Spread the sautéed vegetables and cheeses evenly in the crust before pouring the egg mixture. This ensures every slice is packed with flavor and texture.
Baking and Resting: Bake the quiche until it’s just set with a slight wobble in the center. Let it rest before slicing to allow the filling to firm up, making it easier to cut clean slices.
These tips will help you achieve a quiche that’s golden and crisp on the outside, with a luscious, creamy filling inside. Remember, patience is key – good things come to those who wait!
Variation: Spinach and Ricotta Mediterranean Quiche
For a green twist, add a handful of fresh spinach to the skillet after the onions have softened. Let it wilt, then mix with ricotta instead of feta for a creamier texture. This version is reminiscent of the Greek dish Spanakopita and is perfect for those who love their greens.
Variation: Seafood Mediterranean Quiche
Embrace the coastal essence by adding cooked shrimp or flaked salmon to the filling. The seafood pairs wonderfully with the sun-dried tomatoes and olives, creating a quiche that’s rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and Mediterranean flair.
Variation: Meat Lover’s Mediterranean Quiche
If you’re a fan of meat, try adding diced chorizo or prosciutto to the skillet along with the onions. The smoky, savory notes of the meat will infuse the quiche with a depth of flavor that’s irresistible to carnivores.
Substitutions for a Customized Quiche
Dairy-Free Options: For those avoiding dairy, swap out the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut milk. Use a dairy-free cheese substitute, or simply omit the cheese and add extra vegetables for a wholesome, dairy-free meal.
Gluten-Free Crust: To make this quiche gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust or go crustless. Pour the filling directly into a well-greased pie plate and bake as a frittata for a lighter option that’s just as tasty.
Lower Fat Alternatives: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk in place of the heavy cream. You can also use reduced-fat cheeses or increase the proportion of egg whites to yolks for a lower fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this quiche ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the quiche and refrigerate it overnight. Reheat in the oven before serving to enjoy it at its best.
How long does this quiche last in the fridge? Properly stored in an airtight container, the quiche will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Mediterranean Quiche? Yes, this quiche freezes well. Cool completely, slice, and freeze in a single layer. Once solid, transfer the slices to a freezer bag.
Is this quiche suitable for vegetarians? Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheeses, this quiche is perfect for vegetarians.
How do I know when the quiche is done? The quiche is done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight wobble. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Mediterranean Quiche with Kalamata Olives and Sun-dried Tomatoes
Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Medium skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch) or homemade equivalent
Quiche Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream 240 ml
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled 113 grams
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 50 grams
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 90 grams
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced 75 grams
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped 40 grams
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 15 ml
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 gram
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 grams
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 0.5 grams
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using a homemade pie crust, roll the dough out to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Gently place the crust into the pie plate, trim any excess, and crimp the edges.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, sauté the red onion in olive oil until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives to the skillet, and sauté for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan, then add the sautéed onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the quiche to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
