Name: Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 9 inch pie crust; flour; 1 lb fresh asparagus; ¼ lb Fontina cheese; 4 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper

Quiche is a versatile dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese recipe is a delightfully rich and flavorful dish that features the earthy flavor of asparagus contrasted with the creamy, nutty taste of fontina cheese. The result is a dish that is not only satisfying, but also visually appealing with its vibrant green asparagus and golden-baked crust.

Photos of Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese Recipe

Most of these ingredients are commonly found in home kitchens or local supermarkets. However, you may need to search a bit for fontina cheese, which is an Italian cow's milk cheese. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavor that melts well, making it perfect for this quiche. If you can't find fontina, you can substitute it with Gruyere or a mild cheddar.

Ingredients for Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese

Pie crust: A basic ingredient for any quiche, it forms the base of the dish. You can use a homemade or store-bought pie crust.

Asparagus: The star of this dish. Asparagus adds a unique earthy flavor and vibrant green color to the quiche.

Fontina cheese: A creamy, melting cheese with a subtle nutty flavor, it complements the asparagus well.

Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and form the custard-like texture typical of quiche.

Heavy cream: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the quiche filling.

Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavors.

One reader, Emmet Dahl says:

This asparagus quiche with fontina cheese recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh asparagus and creamy fontina cheese creates a delightful flavor. The crust is perfectly flaky, and the filling is rich and satisfying. It's a must-try for any brunch or special occasion. Highly recommended!

Emmet Dahl

Techniques Required for Making Quiche

Prepare the pie crust: Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface, then transfer it to a tart pan and crimp the edges. Chill the pie crust before blind baking.

Blind bake the pie crust: Prick the dough, line it with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and bake until the edges start to brown. Remove the weights and continue baking until the bottom is cooked through.

Prepare the asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus, blanch in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to ice water to cool. Dry the asparagus and cut into 1-inch pieces.

Finish the filling: Scatter the blanched asparagus and fontina cheese over the pie crust. Mix the cream, eggs, salt, and pepper, then pour the mixture over the asparagus and cheese.

Bake the quiche: Place the quiche in the oven and bake until the filling is set and the top is starting to brown.

Serve: Garnish the quiche with reserved asparagus tips before serving. The quiche can be served immediately or refrigerated for up to 5 days. It can be served cold, at room temperature, or warmed in a 300°F oven.

How To Make Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese

Creamy yet healthy, this asparagus quiche is a savory morning dish with Fontina cheese and heavy cream. Make it for your family on a crisp spring morning.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Chill Time: 1 hour

Total: 2 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

9inchpie crust,(chilled for 30 minutes and ready to roll out)
flour,for sprinkling
1lbfresh asparagus
¼lbfontina cheese,cut into ¼ inch cubes
4largeeggs,lightly beaten in a bowl
1cupheavy cream
½tspsalt
¼tspblack pepper

Instructions

Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured counter to an 11-inch round, moving it often to prevent it from sticking. Lift it onto the rolling pin and gently ease it into a 9 or 10-inch porcelain tart pan.
Press the dough all around the bottom edge so it sticks to the pan. With scissors, cut the pastry around the top edge so it has an even 1-inch overhang.
Tuck the overhang inside the pan all around, like a hem. Crimp the top edge.
Set the pie crust on a rimmed baking sheet. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and freeze for 1 hour.
Heat the oven to 375 degrees F. Prick the dough all over with a fork. Line the dough with parchment paper or crumpled foil, and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the top edge of the pastry is beginning to take on some color. Lift off the paper or foil and beans, and set aside.
Return the pie crust to the oven and continue baking for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the bottom of the dough is beginning to cook through. If the dough forms puffs, prick them with the tip of a knife. Leave the oven on.
Snap off the dry and woody part of the spears near the base, where they break without much effort. Cut the spears into 1-inch pieces.
Bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for 1 minute. Drain and transfer the asparagus to ice water to cool.
Dry the asparagus with paper towels. Set aside 3 asparagus tips to garnish the quiche. Halve the remaining pieces lengthwise.
Scatter the blanched asparagus (not the tips) and Fontina over the bottom of the cooled pie crust. Thoroughly stir the cream into the eggs, add salt and pepper, and pour the egg mixture over the asparagus and cheese.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set all over and the top is starting to brown. Set on a wire rack to cool completely.
Garnish the top of the quiche with the reserved asparagus tips before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1818.80kcal
Fat: 111.33g
Saturated Fat: 46.81g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 42.16g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.86g
Carbohydrates: 183.73g
Fiber: 7.93g
Sugar: 2.96g
Protein: 22.19g
Cholesterol: 200.27mg
Sodium: 1620.15mg
Calcium: 202.12mg
Potassium: 497.84mg
Iron: 5.83mg
Vitamin A: 294.45µg
Vitamin C: 4.47mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Quiche Crust

When preparing the asparagus, it's important to snap off the woody ends rather than cutting them. This ensures that you're removing the tough, fibrous part of the stalk that isn't pleasant to eat. The asparagus will naturally break where the tender part starts, making it a foolproof method to get the most out of your fresh asparagus. Additionally, blanching the asparagus not only cooks it slightly but also helps to retain its vibrant green color, enhancing the visual appeal of your quiche.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese

Prep ahead: Prepare the pie crust and blanch the asparagus a day before making the quiche to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded fontina cheese to eliminate the need for grating, saving you time and effort.

Quick assembly: Assemble the quiche the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it the next day for a quick and convenient meal.

Streamline the process: Use store-bought pie crust to cut down on prep time without compromising on flavor.

Efficient multitasking: While the pie crust is chilling or baking, prepare the filling and asparagus to maximize your time in the kitchen.

Invest in a quiche pan: Using a quiche pan with a removable bottom can make the process of removing and serving the quiche much quicker and easier.

Pre-cut asparagus: Purchase pre-cut asparagus to save time on prep work, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the recipe.

Prep in bulk: Consider doubling the recipe and making two quiches to have one for now and one to freeze for later, maximizing your efforts.

Opt for pre-made crust: Save time by using a pre-made pie crust, allowing you to focus on the filling and flavors of the quiche.

Efficient slicing: Use a mandoline slicer to quickly and uniformly slice the asparagus, saving time and ensuring even cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese Recipe

asparagus - Substitute with broccolini: Broccolini has a similar texture and flavor to asparagus, making it a great substitute in quiche recipes.
fontina cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a similar nutty flavor and melting properties to fontina, making it a suitable replacement in the quiche recipe.

Presentation Tips for Asparagus and Fontina Quiche

Elevate the quiche with a stunning crust: Create a decorative pie crust by using intricate lattice work or other creative designs to add visual appeal to the quiche.
Garnish with asparagus tips: Place the reserved asparagus tips on top of the quiche in an artful arrangement to showcase the star ingredient and add a touch of elegance.
Plate with precision: Use a round cutter to carefully portion the quiche, ensuring clean edges and a polished presentation on the plate.
Accompany with a side salad: Serve the asparagus quiche with a delicate mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the quiche.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a pop of color and a touch of sophistication by delicately placing edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, around the quiche for a visually stunning presentation.
Consider the serving dish: Choose a beautiful, high-quality porcelain or ceramic serving dish to complement the elegance of the quiche and enhance the overall dining experience.
Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Create an artistic drizzle of balsamic reduction on the plate to add a burst of flavor and a visually appealing element to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Quiche

Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to flatten and shape the pie crust to the desired thickness and size.
Tart pan: A tart pan with a removable bottom is used to hold the pie crust and the quiche filling, allowing for easy removal and serving.
Scissors: Scissors are used to trim the excess pastry from the tart pan, ensuring a neat and even edge.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to provide a stable surface for the tart pan and to catch any drips or spills during baking.
Parchment paper or foil: Parchment paper or foil is used to line the pie crust before blind baking, preventing the crust from puffing up and ensuring even baking.
Pie weights or dried beans: Pie weights or dried beans are used to weigh down the parchment paper or foil-lined pie crust during blind baking, preventing it from rising and creating an even, flat surface.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used to blanch the asparagus, quickly cooking it in boiling water and then cooling it in ice water to preserve its color and texture.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used to cool the baked quiche, allowing air to circulate around the pan and preventing the crust from becoming soggy.
Knife: A knife is used to prick any puffs that may form on the pie crust during blind baking, ensuring an even surface.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to make the pie crust, combining the flour and other ingredients to form a dough.
Mixing bowl: Mixing bowls are used to combine the eggs, cream, and seasonings for the quiche filling.
Paper towels: Paper towels are used to dry the blanched asparagus before adding it to the quiche, removing excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling.

Storing and Freezing Asparagus Quiche

Let the quiche cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the quiche tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 5 days.
To freeze the quiche, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to serve a frozen quiche, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, place the quiche in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If the crust starts to brown too much, cover the edges with foil.
If you want to freeze individual slices, cut the cooled quiche into portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can easily reheat single servings as needed.
For best results, avoid freezing the quiche for longer than 2 months, as the texture and flavor may deteriorate over time.
If you plan on making the quiche ahead of time for a special occasion, it's best to freeze the unbaked crust and filling separately. Assemble and bake the quiche just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Quiche Leftovers

To reheat leftover asparagus quiche in the oven, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the quiche on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the crust.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place a slice of quiche on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the eggs to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your quiche. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of quiche in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
For a crispy crust, you can also reheat the quiche in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a slice of quiche in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
If you want to reheat the entire quiche at once, place it in a cold oven and set the temperature to 325°F (165°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to prevent the crust from burning before the filling is heated.

Random Fact About Asparagus Quiche

The asparagus used in this quiche recipe is a great source of folate, fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K. It also contains chromium, a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This vegetable is also low in calories and a good source of antioxidants.

Is Making Quiche at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this asparagus quiche with fontina cheese recipe is quite favorable. Asparagus is a reasonably priced vegetable, and the addition of fontina cheese adds a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be an 8 out of 10, considering the balance between cost and quality.

Is This Quiche Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The asparagus quiche with fontina cheese recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe uses a pie crust, which is typically high in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates.
Heavy cream is used, adding a significant amount of saturated fat and calories to the dish.
Fontina cheese, while delicious, is also high in saturated fat and sodium.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:

Asparagus, which is a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Eggs, which are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a whole wheat or almond flour pie crust to increase fiber and nutrient content while reducing refined carbohydrates.
Replace half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce saturated fat and calories.
Use a reduced-fat fontina cheese or substitute with a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
Increase the amount of asparagus or add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutrient profile of the quiche.
Experiment with using egg whites in place of some whole eggs to reduce the cholesterol content.

Editor's Opinion on This Asparagus and Fontina Quiche Recipe

The asparagus quiche with fontina cheese recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh asparagus adds a vibrant and earthy taste, while the fontina cheese brings a rich and creamy element to the dish. The pie crust provides a perfect base, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. The recipe's instructions are clear and easy to follow, resulting in a beautifully baked quiche with a golden brown top. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. It's a wonderful way to showcase seasonal asparagus and impress your guests with a homemade quiche.

Enhance Your Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, creating a rich and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the asparagus quiche.

Grilled Vegetable Platter: An assortment of colorful grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, offering a light and flavorful accompaniment to the asparagus quiche.

Mixed Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad featuring a mix of fresh greens, tossed in a tangy citrus vinaigrette, providing a crisp and vibrant contrast to the creamy asparagus quiche.

Similar Recipes to Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese

Roasted Vegetable Ratatouille: This dish is a flavorful and colorful mix of roasted vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs braised in a rich and savory sauce, served with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

Mixed Berry Cobbler: A delightful dessert made with a combination of fresh berries, topped with a sweet and buttery biscuit-like crust. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Asparagus Quiche

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added crunch before baking until golden and bubbly.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping toasted baguette slices with a flavorful mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. Serve as a light and refreshing appetizer to kick off any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting another slice.

Why trust this Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese Recipe:

This recipe for asparagus quiche with fontina cheese is a delightful combination of fresh asparagus and creamy fontina cheese. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures a delicious and flavorful quiche. The step-by-step instructions and attention to detail in the preparation process guarantee a successful outcome. The inclusion of heavy cream and eggs creates a rich and luscious filling, while the blind baking technique for the pie crust ensures a perfectly crisp and flaky base. Trust in the expertise and precision of this recipe to create a delectable quiche that will impress and satisfy your taste buds.

If you enjoyed this Asparagus Quiche with Fontina Cheese Recipe, head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese in this quiche?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese in this quiche. Fontina cheese can be substituted with Gruyere, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I make the pie crust from scratch instead of using a store-bought one?

Absolutely! Making the pie crust from scratch is a great option. You can use your favorite pie crust recipe or try a buttery, flaky homemade crust to elevate the flavor of the quiche.

Can I prepare the quiche ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the quiche ahead of time and bake it later. Simply cover the assembled quiche with plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This is a great time-saving option for entertaining or meal prep.

Can I add other vegetables to the quiche?

Certainly! You can customize the quiche by adding other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just be sure to cook or blanch the vegetables before adding them to the quiche to ensure they are the right texture.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in the quiche filling?

While heavy cream provides a rich and creamy texture, you can use whole milk as a substitute if you prefer a lighter option. However, the texture and richness of the quiche filling may vary slightly with the substitution.