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There is something truly delightful about the harmony of fresh vegetables and creamy cheese baked into a tender pie crust, which is exactly what you get with this Asparagus, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe. The vibrant green asparagus pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes and tangy goat cheese, all elevated by sharp cheddar and a custardy egg base that comes together in a golden, flaky crust. It’s a dish that feels special enough for guests but simple enough to make on a lazy weekend morning or light dinner, bringing freshness, color, and comfort all in one slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this quiche truly comes down to a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a vital role, whether adding creaminess, freshness, or a punch of flavor. Every element contributes to balancing texture and taste while making the dish visually appealing.
- Asparagus: Adds a tender yet crisp bite and beautiful green color that brightens up the quiche.
- Olive oil: Used for roasting asparagus to enhance its natural flavor and add subtle richness.
- Fresh tomatoes: Provide juicy sweetness and acidity to balance the creaminess of the cheese.
- Green onions: Bring a mild, fresh, and slightly pungent note that complements the other vegetables.
- Goat cheese: Adds tangy creaminess that melts beautifully into the custard.
- Eggs: The base of the quiche, giving it structure and that rich, silky texture.
- Half and half: Combined with eggs for the luxurious, creamy custard filling.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors in every bite.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top to create a lovely golden crust and add an extra sharp flavor punch.
- Pie crust: The buttery foundation that holds everything together in a beautifully crisp shell.
How to Make Asparagus, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Asparagus
Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees. This is just the right heat to roast the asparagus to tender perfection. Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus and chop the spears into bite-sized pieces for easy layering in the quiche. Toss the asparagus on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 8 to 10 minutes until fork-tender. This roasting step intensifies the natural flavor of asparagus and adds a tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Don’t worry if you prefer steaming; that’s a great alternative for a softer bite. After roasting, reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees for baking the full quiche.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Take out your 9-inch deep tart pan and fit the pie crust inside, pressing it gently up to the edges. If you’re using a 9-inch pie pan, press the crust into the base and sides firmly with a fork. This crust will provide a crunchy, buttery base that contrasts so well with the softness of the filling, creating those satisfying textures we all crave in a quiche.
Step 3: Layer the Vegetables and Cheese
Now it’s time to build flavor and color. Spread the roasted asparagus evenly on the bottom of the crust, then add the chopped, seeded fresh tomatoes and green onions on top. Their juiciness and bite will shine through once baked. Next, crumble the goat cheese evenly over the vegetables to ensure every forkful contains that amazing tangy creaminess.
Step 4: Make the Custard
In a bowl or mixer, beat together the six large eggs with 1¼ cups of half and half, salt, and pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy. This custard is the glue that holds the ingredients together and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture quiches are famous for. Pour it slowly over the layered vegetables and goat cheese so everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Layer and Bake
Sprinkle one cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the custard’s surface. This cheese melts and browns during baking, adding a deliciously golden edge and extra flavor depth. Place the quiche in the oven at 375 degrees and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The quiche is done when the center is fully set but still slightly jiggly, promising a creamy and luscious bite.
How to Serve Asparagus, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme. These add a pop of green and a light herbal fragrance that complements the richness of the quiche beautifully. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can also enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Side Dishes
This quiche pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh side salads featuring mixed greens, tangy vinaigrettes, or even a simple sliced cucumber and radish salad. For something heartier, roasted or grilled vegetables, like asparagus tips or baby carrots, add seasonal freshness. Light soup is also a fantastic match, especially a chilled cucumber or tomato gazpacho for a summery combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the quiche in rustic wedges on wooden boards for an inviting brunch feel, or plate it with microgreens and edible flowers for special occasions. You can also cut small, bite-sized squares and serve as an elegant appetizer at parties. Pairing with colorful napkins or tableware that highlights the vibrant asparagus green and tomato reds will make the dish visually pop and truly sparkle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow out and even deepen after a day, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just be sure to cover tightly to keep it moist.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of the quiche by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This is brilliant for meal prepping or saving portions for busy days. Frozen quiche keeps well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat quiche slices in a 350-degree oven for about 15 minutes to revive the flaky crust and warm the filling evenly without drying it out. Microwaving is quicker but can make the crust soggy, so use it only as a last resort. To keep the crust crisp, placing a piece of foil over the top during baking helps prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of asparagus in the quiche?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is a great substitute that adds a different but equally delicious flavor and texture. Just sauté the spinach briefly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the quiche to avoid a soggy crust.
Is goat cheese necessary, or can I substitute another cheese?
Goat cheese brings a distinctive tang and creaminess, but if you prefer, cream cheese or feta can provide a similar richness. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly. Cheddar on top ensures a familiar sharpness.
Can I prepare this quiche crust from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade pie crust adds a wonderful buttery aroma and texture that complements the filling beautifully. If time allows, making your own crust elevates the dish, but store-bought crusts work perfectly well for convenience.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
Look for a custard that is set around the edges and slightly wobbly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools. If you gently shake the pan and the middle jiggles only a little, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Can this quiche be enjoyed cold or only warm?
One of the great things about quiche is its versatility! It tastes fantastic warm, fresh out of the oven, but also delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Asparagus, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe enough; it manages to feel both fresh and indulgent with minimal effort. Its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and creamy textures make it a standout dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner, this quiche will bring joy to your table and smiles to everyone who digs in. Give it a go soon, and prepare to fall in love with every delicious bite!
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Asparagus, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Quiche Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Quiche
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Asparagus, Tomato, and Goat Cheese Quiche is a vibrant and savory dish perfect for brunch or a light dinner. Featuring tender roasted asparagus, fresh tomatoes, green onions, and creamy goat cheese baked in a flaky pie crust, this quiche combines fresh vegetables with rich cheeses and a custardy egg filling for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes (chopped & seeded)
- 1 bunch green onions (chopped)
Cheeses
- 4 ounces goat cheese (crumbled)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 & 1/4 cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 9 inch pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for roasting the asparagus.
- Prepare and Roast Asparagus: Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus and chop the spears into bite-size pieces. Lay them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender. Alternatively, you can steam the asparagus if preferred. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the 9-inch pie crust into a deep tart or pie pan, pressing it firmly against the sides and trimming any excess dough.
- Assemble Vegetables and Cheese: Layer the roasted asparagus, chopped tomatoes, and green onions inside the unbaked pie crust. Scatter the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the vegetables.
- Mix Egg Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, half and half, salt, and pepper for about one minute until well combined using either a mixer or blender.
- Combine and Add Topping: Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and goat cheese in the pie crust. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Quiche: Bake in the preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and a knife inserted comes out clean.
Notes
- Roasting the asparagus enhances its natural flavor and adds a slight caramelization, but steaming is a good alternative for a more tender texture.
- Using a tart pan gives the quiche a nice presentation, but a regular 9-inch pie pan will work just as well.
- Let the quiche cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set fully.
- Half and half can be substituted with whole milk or cream for different richness levels.
