Smoky Herb and Cheese Quiche
This delightful Smoky Herb and Cheese Quiche combines the unique flavors of tarragon and thyme with rich, smoked Swiss cheese, creating a breakfast centerpiece that is both sumptuous and satisfying. The addition of crispy bacon, creamy almond milk, and a graham cracker crust adds an unexpected twist, making this quiche an indulgent yet wholesome option for brunch gatherings or leisurely weekend breakfasts. Customizable with your choice of proteins and vegetables, this dish promises to be a favorite for all who enjoy a balance of savory and sweet in every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Eggs
4 (Fresh, beaten (or 5 if using a 10-inch pie shell))
Coconut milk
2/3 cup ((or 3/4 cup if using a 10-inch pie shell))
Graham cracker crust
1 (9 inch) (or 1 (10 inch) pie crust)
Smoked Swiss cheese
4 ounces (Shredded or sliced 1/16 inch thick (or 6 ounces if using a 10-inch pie shell))
Cooked chicken or shrimp
1/4 lb (Diced, optional)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (Pure vanilla extract)
Bell pepper
1/3 cup (Chopped, optional)
Onion
1/3 cup (Chopped, optional)
Celery
1/3 cup (Chopped, optional)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (Optional)
White pepper
1/8 teaspoon (Optional)
Ground cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (Optional)
Dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (Or 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped)
Dried tarragon
1 teaspoon (Or 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Line your pie shell with a generous layer of smoked Swiss cheese, ensuring an even distribution across the bottom. This adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the quiche.
3
If you prefer your vegetables softer, lightly sauté the chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until just tender.
4
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut milk (or almond milk), vanilla extract, salt, and pepper. Stir in the fresh or dried herbs: thyme and tarragon.
5
Gently fold in the sautéed vegetables and any optional proteins like cooked chicken or shrimp. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
6
Pour the egg mixture over the cheese-lined pie crust. If using, sprinkle the crispy bacon or preferred protein evenly over the top of the mixture.
7
Cover the quiche loosely with tin foil and bake in the preheated oven. For a 9-inch pie shell, bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or for a 10-inch shell, bake for 60 to 75 minutes. Rotate the quiche halfway through cooking to ensure even baking.
8
Once the center of the quiche is set, carefully remove the tin foil. Broil the quiche for an additional 2 to 5 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and has a deliciously crispy appearance.
9
Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Smoky Herb and Cheese Quiche?
It is a savory breakfast dish combining tarragon, thyme, and smoked Swiss cheese in a graham cracker crust.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 to 6 ounces of smoked Swiss cheese, either shredded or sliced thin.
Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, almond milk is a suitable substitute for coconut milk in this quiche recipe.
What herbs provide the main flavor?
The quiche is flavored with a combination of dried or fresh thyme and tarragon.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does a 9-inch quiche take to bake?
A 9-inch pie shell requires 50 to 60 minutes of baking time.
How long does a 10-inch quiche take to bake?
A 10-inch pie shell requires 60 to 75 minutes of baking time.
What type of crust is recommended?
This recipe uniquely uses a 9 or 10-inch graham cracker crust for a blend of savory and sweet.
Should the vegetables be sautéed before adding them to the eggs?
Yes, if you prefer softer vegetables, sauté the onions, peppers, and celery for about 5 minutes until tender.
What proteins can be added to this quiche?
You can add 1/4 lb of cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon to the mixture.
How many eggs are needed for a 9-inch version?
A 9-inch quiche requires 4 fresh, beaten eggs.
How many eggs are needed for a 10-inch version?
A 10-inch quiche requires 5 fresh, beaten eggs.
Why is it important to rotate the quiche during baking?
Rotating the quiche halfway through the baking process ensures that it cooks evenly.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, use 1.5 teaspoons of fresh thyme or 1 tablespoon of fresh tarragon as substitutes for dried versions.
What is the benefit of using smoked Swiss cheese?
The smoked Swiss cheese adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
Does the recipe really call for vanilla extract?
Yes, one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract is added to the egg mixture for a unique flavor balance.
How do I achieve a browned top on the quiche?
Broil the quiche for an additional 2 to 5 minutes after it has finished baking until the top is lightly browned.
How long should I let the quiche cool?
Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges for the best flavor experience.
What serving temperature is recommended?
The quiche is best served warm or at room temperature.
Which vegetables are included in the recipe?
The recipe suggests using 1/3 cup each of chopped bell peppers, onions, and celery.
How much coconut milk is needed for a 9-inch shell?
Use 2/3 cup of coconut milk for a 9-inch pie shell.
How much coconut milk is needed for a 10-inch shell?
Use 3/4 cup of coconut milk for a 10-inch pie shell.
Is the cayenne pepper mandatory?
No, the ground cayenne pepper is an optional ingredient used to add a touch of spice.
Where does the cheese go in the assembly process?
The cheese should be layered at the bottom of the pie shell to ensure even distribution.
Should the quiche be covered while in the oven?
Yes, cover the quiche loosely with tin foil during the baking process to prevent over-browning.
What types of pepper are used in the seasoning?
The recipe mentions black pepper, white pepper, and ground cayenne pepper as optional spices.
Can I use cooked shrimp in this recipe?
Yes, 1/4 lb of diced, cooked shrimp is a suggested optional protein for this dish.
Is this quiche suitable for brunch?
Absolutely, it is described as an indulgent and wholesome centerpiece for brunch gatherings.
How should the onions and celery be prepared?
They should be chopped and can be lightly sautéed if you prefer a softer texture.
How should the finished quiche be sliced?
Once cooled slightly, the quiche should be sliced into wedges for serving.