Quiche, with its golden crust and rich, savory filling, embodies the elegance and simplicity of French cuisine. Whether enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, a perfectly baked quiche is always a crowd-pleaser. Here are two delightful variations—Zucchini Quiche and classic Quiche Lorraine—to share with loved ones, accompanied by an authentic French pastry crust recipe beloved by Parisian culinary art schools and top chefs.
Authentic French Pastry Crust (Pâte Brisée :) got this just for you
Ingredients:
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• ¼ cup ice-cold water
Method:
1. In a food processor, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually drizzle in ice-cold water while pulsing, just until dough starts to come together.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shape into a disk, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Roll dough out to fit your pie dish and follow baking instructions below.
Classic Quiche Lorraine
Essential Ingredients:
• 1 prepared authentic French pastry crust (recipe above)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• Freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish
Method:
1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pastry crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently into edges. Trim excess dough and prick bottom lightly with a fork. Blind bake crust for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions: Sauté chopped onions until translucent and tender; cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling: Whisk eggs, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in cheese, bacon, and onions.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour filling into the crust. Bake 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and set.
5. Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with chives, and serve warm with a crisp salad or baguette.
Zucchini Quiche
Essential Ingredients:
• 1 prepared authentic French pastry crust (recipe above)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups grated zucchini (drained)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, finely chopped, for garnish
Method:
1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pastry crust into a 9-inch pie dish, blind bake crust for 10 minutes, set aside.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Sauté onion and garlic until soft; add zucchini briefly, then cool.
3. Prepare Filling: Whisk eggs, cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheeses and vegetables.
4. Assemble and Bake: Pour filling into crust. Bake 35-40 minutes until set and golden.
5. Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with basil, enjoy warm with your favorite side salad.
Quiche offers endless possibilities for customization, making it an ideal dish to savor leisurely on your porch, surrounded by family, friends, and good conversation.