Hearty Vegetable and Ham Quiche

Hearty Vegetable and Ham Quiche

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
   • Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Roll Out the Crust:
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan.
   • Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough.
4. Blind Bake the Crust:
   • Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
5. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. Assemble the Quiche:
   • Evenly distribute the cooked vegetables and diced ham over the pre-baked crust.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the vegetables and ham.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
   • Pour the egg mixture over the cheese, vegetables, and ham in the crust.
7. Bake the Quiche:
   • Bake the assembled quiche in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
   • Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
8. Serve:
   • Garnish the quiche with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature.

This hearty vegetable and ham quiche is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Enjoy its rich flavors and creamy texture with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables.