The Ultimate Guide to Smoked Salmon Quiche recipe
Smoked salmon quiche is a savory, flavorful dish that combines the richness of smoked salmon with a creamy egg custard, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. It's a versatile recipe, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients like cheese
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish or quiche dish: For baking the quiche.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the egg mixture and other ingredients.
- Whisk: To beat the eggs and blend the custard mixture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping smoked salmon, green onions, and herbs.
- Parchment paper (optional): For blind baking the crust.
- Pie weights or dried beans (optional): To keep the crust from puffing during blind baking
- Oven mitts: For safely handling hot dishes.
Ingredients
- Pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
- Smoked salmon – 4 ounces, flaked or cut into small pieces
- Eggs – 3 large
- ½ cup Heavy cream
- ¼ cup Milk (whole milk preferred)
- ½ cup Shredded cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or Swiss)
- Fresh dill – 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Green onions – 1 stalk, finely sliced
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Capers (optional) – 1 teaspoon for tanginess
- Lemon zest (optional) – ¼ teaspoon for brightness
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Prepare the Crust:
- If using a pre-made pie crust, fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- For a homemade crust, roll out the dough and place it in the pie dish. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
- Blind Bake (Optional): If you want to prevent a soggy bottom, blind bake the crust. Line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10-15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
- 3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and milk until well combined.
- Add in the shredded cheese, smoked salmon, chopped green onions, fresh dill (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
- 4. Assemble the Quiche:
- Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, ensuring even distribution of the salmon and cheese.
- 5. Bake the Quiche:
- Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top. A slight jiggle in the center is normal; it will firm up as it cools.
- 6. Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the quiche set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
- 7. Enjoy:
- Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of capers, if desired. Enjoy your delicious smoked salmon quiche!
Notes
- Crust Options: You can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience or make your own from scratch for a fresher taste. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pie crusts or consider making a crustless version.
- Smoked Salmon Quality: Choose high-quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. Wild-caught salmon often has a richer taste compared to farmed varieties.
- Cheese Variations: While Gruyère is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Additional Ingredients: Customize your quiche by adding vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers. Just make sure to remove excess moisture to avoid a soggy filling.
- Make-Ahead: This quiche can be prepared in advance. You can either bake it the day before and reheat it, or prepare the filling and crust separately, assembling and baking it just before serving.
- Storage: Leftover quiche can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Serving Suggestions: Smoked salmon quiche pairs well with a light salad, fresh fruit, or a glass of sparkling wine, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.