If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s both elegant and delicious, look no further than the Italian Quiche by Kay Higby! This delightful recipe combines the rich creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the freshness of diced tomatoes and fragrant basil, all nestled in a perfectly baked pie crust. Whether it’s for brunch, a cozy dinner, or a special gathering, this quiche is sure to be the star of the table. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring each bite of this Italian-inspired dish in no time. Ready to elevate your culinary game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even cooking.
- Carefully unroll the pre-made pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges to create a decorative border. Use a fork to lightly prick the bottom of the crust to prevent air bubbles.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth, uniform mixture. This will ensure a creamy texture in the final quiche.
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper into the egg mixture, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the egg mixture, stirring gently to distribute the cheese throughout.
- Scatter the diced tomatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie crust.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the tomatoes, ensuring an even distribution.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top of the quiche, allowing some pieces to sink slightly into the mixture.
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The quiche should be slightly firm when gently shaken.
- Remove from the oven and let the quiche cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the filling to set completely and makes slicing easier.
- Slice into 8 equal wedges and serve warm. Can be accompanied by a light salad or fresh crusty bread.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes can elevate the taste of your quiche significantly.
- Pre-Bake the Crust: If you prefer a crisper crust, consider pre-baking the pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent a soggy bottom.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the quiche with additional ingredients like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even cooked bacon for a heartier version.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the quiche to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking not only helps it set but also makes slicing easier, ensuring clean, beautiful wedges.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your quiche with a light salad or some crusty bread to balance the richness of the dish and create a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 180mg
