Creamy Spinach & Feta Quiche – Mediterranean-Inspired Delight

Creamy Spinach & Feta Quiche is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together the richness of eggs and cream with the tanginess of feta cheese and the earthy flavor of spinach. Baked in a golden, flaky crust, this quiche is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It’s a satisfying and elegant option that highlights the simplicity and depth of Mediterranean ingredients, offering both comfort and sophistication in every slice.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 oz fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. If using a frozen pie crust, let it thaw slightly and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Par-bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, then stir in the spinach and cook until wilted (or heated through if using frozen). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  6. Stir the spinach mixture into the egg mixture, then fold in crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese, if using.
  7. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
  9. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Vitamin A: 60% DV
  • Vitamin C: 8% DV
  • Calcium: 15% DV
  • Iron: 10% DV

Mediterranean Inspiration and Culinary Roots

Creamy Spinach & Feta Quiche is deeply rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly drawing from Greek culinary traditions. The use of spinach and feta is reminiscent of spanakopita, a beloved Greek savory pie, while the quiche format offers a French twist. This cross-cultural fusion creates a flavorful dish that feels both rustic and refined. The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its emphasis on fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins—all of which are celebrated in this quiche. It delivers a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle in a familiar and comforting form.

Health Benefits of Spinach

Spinach, the star vegetable in this dish, is a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, it supports everything from bone health to immune function. Spinach is also a significant source of antioxidants like lutein and beta-carotene, which help reduce inflammation and promote eye health. In a quiche, spinach adds not only color and texture but also a boost of plant-based nutrients that enhance the dish’s overall health profile.

Why Feta Cheese Stands Out

Feta cheese brings a briny, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the mild taste of spinach and the richness of the egg custard. Made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep and goat’s milk, feta is lower in fat than many cow’s milk cheeses and is rich in calcium and protein. Its crumbly texture allows it to distribute evenly throughout the quiche, ensuring you get a pop of flavor in every bite. Feta’s sharpness adds complexity and depth to the dish without overwhelming it.

The Role of Eggs and Cream

The creamy custard base of the quiche is a simple combination of eggs and half-and-half or cream. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline and vitamin D, while the cream adds richness and helps the quiche set properly. This balance of protein and fat makes the quiche both satisfying and nourishing. The custard’s silky texture acts as a binding agent, holding the ingredients together in a harmonious, melt-in-your-mouth filling.

Using a Pre-Made or Homemade Crust

Whether you opt for a store-bought crust for convenience or make your own from scratch, the crust is essential for delivering that buttery, flaky base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. A homemade crust offers the opportunity to experiment with whole wheat flour or herb-infused doughs for a healthier or more flavorful option. Par-baking the crust ensures it stays crisp and doesn’t become soggy from the moisture-rich filling, preserving the texture integrity of the quiche.

Customizing with Add-Ins and Substitutions

One of the strengths of this quiche is its adaptability. You can add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, or caramelized onions for additional Mediterranean flair. To make it heartier, include diced ham, smoked salmon, or shredded rotisserie chicken. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream and vegan cheese, while a gluten-free crust can accommodate those with dietary restrictions. The base recipe acts as a versatile canvas for countless flavor profiles and nutritional preferences.

Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion

This quiche is a perfect centerpiece for brunch but also transitions well into lunch or dinner menus. Serve it with a light arugula or cucumber salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Fresh fruit, roasted potatoes, or a warm bowl of soup make excellent side dishes to round out the meal. Its savory yet balanced flavor also allows it to pair well with sparkling wine, herbal teas, or citrus-infused waters, depending on the time of day.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Benefits

Creamy Spinach & Feta Quiche is ideal for meal prepping, as it stores and reheats beautifully. You can bake it the night before and refrigerate it, then simply warm up individual slices as needed throughout the week. It also makes an excellent dish to prepare in advance for guests, holiday mornings, or potluck brunches. Prepping the components ahead of time—such as sautéing the spinach and onions or whisking the custard—can significantly cut down on active cooking time.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftover quiche, cover it tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats best in the oven at 325°F for about 15 minutes, which helps maintain the crust’s crispness and the custard’s delicate texture. You can also freeze the whole quiche or individual slices for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently warming it in the oven to preserve its flavor and consistency.

Nutritional Considerations and Lightening It Up

While this quiche is rich and satisfying, you can lighten it up without sacrificing flavor. Using reduced-fat feta, substituting half of the cream with milk, and using egg whites or an egg substitute can cut calories and fat. Incorporating more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale boosts fiber and volume while reducing the overall calorie density. These modifications allow you to tailor the recipe to your nutritional goals while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Conclusion

Creamy Spinach & Feta Quiche is a versatile, nutrient-rich dish that merges Mediterranean flavors with classic quiche comfort. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing weekday meals, or looking for a flavorful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this dish delivers on all fronts. Its balance of creamy, savory, and tangy elements makes it both memorable and nourishing. With its flexibility, easy prep, and wide appeal, this quiche earns a well-deserved place at any table, anytime of day.

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