Introduction
Elegant ricotta and spinach quiche is a timeless dish that feels equally at home on a brunch table as it does at a light lunch or dinner gathering. With its delicate custard filling, tender spinach, and creamy ricotta, this quiche strikes a beautiful balance between richness and freshness. I first prepared this version when I wanted a quiche that felt lighter than traditional cream-heavy recipes, yet still luxurious and satisfying. Ricotta adds a soft, airy texture while spinach brings color and subtle earthiness. The result is a refined dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Served warm or at room temperature, this quiche is ideal for entertaining, meal prep, or enjoying a quiet, elegant meal at home.
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Elegant Ricotta & Spinach Quiche – Light, Creamy, and Perfectly Refined
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An elegant ricotta and spinach quiche with a flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 prepared pie crust (9-inch)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted; remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, ricotta cheese, cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir in shredded cheese and cooled spinach mixture.
- Pour filling into prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until center is set and top is lightly golden.
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Let quiche cool slightly for cleaner slices.
- Can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Great with a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quiche has a light, creamy texture without feeling heavy. It uses simple ingredients and reliable techniques. The flavors are delicate yet satisfying, making it perfect for brunches, showers, or make-ahead meals. It slices beautifully and tastes just as good the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pie crust
Pie crust provides a crisp, buttery base that supports the creamy filling and adds contrast in texture.
Ricotta cheese
Ricotta cheese creates a light, fluffy texture and gives the quiche its signature creaminess.
Fresh spinach
Fresh spinach adds color, freshness, and mild earthiness while keeping the dish balanced.
Eggs
Eggs form the custard base, binding the filling and giving the quiche structure.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream adds richness and helps create a smooth, silky custard.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds depth, saltiness, and a subtle nutty flavor.
Garlic
Garlic enhances aroma and gently boosts savory flavor.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg adds a delicate warmth that complements both ricotta and spinach.
Salt
Salt balances the dairy and enhances all flavors.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and contrast.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and preparing the pie crust in a quiche or pie dish. Lightly blind bake the crust until just set, then allow it to cool slightly.
In a skillet, sauté the spinach with a small amount of butter or oil until wilted. Remove from heat and squeeze out excess moisture, then chop finely. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Spread the spinach evenly over the prepared crust. Pour the ricotta mixture over the spinach, smoothing the top gently. Bake until the quiche is set in the center and lightly golden on top. Allow it to rest before slicing and serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 35 to 40 minutes, and resting time is 10 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. The quiche can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Variations and Customizations
You can add caramelized onions for extra sweetness or sun-dried tomatoes for a more robust flavor. Feta can replace part of the Parmesan for a tangier profile. I have also made this quiche crustless, which worked beautifully for a lighter, gluten-free option while still maintaining structure.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Ricotta and spinach quiche provides protein from eggs and cheese, along with vitamins and minerals from spinach. While it contains dairy, ricotta makes it lighter than many traditional quiches. Portion size and sides can help balance the meal.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Drain Spinach Well
Removing excess moisture prevents a watery filling.
Do Not Overbake
The center should be just set for a creamy texture.
Let It Rest
Resting allows the custard to firm up for clean slices.
FAQs
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and reheated.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
Is ricotta better than cream cheese?
Ricotta creates a lighter texture than cream cheese.
Can I freeze this quiche?
Yes, freeze fully baked and cooled quiche for up to one month.
Why is my quiche watery?
Excess moisture from spinach or underbaking can cause this.
Can I make it crustless?
Yes, grease the dish well and bake as directed.
What herbs pair well with this quiche?
Thyme, chives, or parsley work well.
Is this quiche vegetarian?
Yes, it contains no meat.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the texture will be less rich.
What can I serve with quiche?
A green salad or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Elegant ricotta and spinach quiche is a refined yet approachable dish that delivers creamy texture, fresh flavor, and dependable results. Perfect for entertaining or everyday meals, it is a versatile recipe that brings a touch of elegance to any table without unnecessary complexity.
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