My Special Friday Night Vegetarian Onion and Tomato Quiche
Overview
This delightful quiche is a cherished family favorite that I prepare with love on Friday nights, welcoming my vegetarian stepdaughter home from her week at university. It’s a dish that not only satisfies a hearty appetite but also offers a taste of home with its rich flavors and comforting texture. Paired with a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup, this quiche transforms an ordinary dinner into a special occasion. The secret to its unique flavor lies in a generous smear of Dijon mustard on the bottom of the crust, which elevates the overall taste and adds a subtle zing. Whether served warm or cold, this quiche makes an excellent appetizer when cut into smaller portions.
Recipe Details
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Savory Pies
- Servings: 4
- Rating: ★★★★★ (18 reviews)
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 754.8 |
| Total Fat | 58.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 26.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 306.5 mg |
| Sodium | 570.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugars | 3.8 g |
| Protein | 28.4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Gruyere cheese | 7/8 cup, grated |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon (or more for even coating) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking your quiche.
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Blind Bake the Crust: Prepare the pie crust by blind-baking it in your chosen pie dish. Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are just set and beginning to turn golden. This step is crucial to ensure a crisp base for your quiche.
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Cool the Crust: Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely. This step can easily be done ahead of time to save you stress on the day of serving.
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Sauté the Onions: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and golden, approximately 8-10 minutes. Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, sprinkle in the dried thyme along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream until well combined, ensuring a smooth texture that will envelop the other ingredients in the quiche.
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Spread the Mustard: Take the cooled pie crust and, using a brush or spoon, spread a generous layer of Dijon mustard evenly across the bottom. This “secret ingredient” adds depth to the flavor and complements the cheese and vegetables beautifully.
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Layer the Cheese: Next, evenly distribute the grated Gruyere cheese over the mustard-coated crust. The cheese will melt and create a delightful, gooey layer that binds the quiche together.
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Add the Onions: Spoon the sautéed onions over the cheese, spreading them out as evenly as possible. They don’t need to form a solid layer; instead, aim for an even distribution to ensure every bite has that wonderful onion flavor.
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Pour in the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg and cream mixture over the layered ingredients in the crust. Make sure to do this gently to avoid disturbing the layers beneath.
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Layer the Tomatoes: Finally, lay the tomato slices on top of the egg mixture, arranging them in a visually appealing manner. If desired, sprinkle a touch more salt and pepper on top to enhance the flavor profile.
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Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center and has a lovely golden-brown top. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy this delicious vegetarian delight!
This quiche recipe not only encapsulates the essence of home-cooked comfort food but also serves as a versatile dish that can easily adapt to seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, it is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
