Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
364 | 28.3g | 15.7g | 11.2g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
2.6g | 0.8g | 13.4g | 0.6g |
When I think of dishes that capture the essence of the West Coast’s health-conscious, yet soul-satisfying culinary scene, the Asparagus and Goat Cheese Quiche manifestly frames these flavors and ideologies. Borrowing from sun-kissed farmed produce and the velvety richness of locally-sourced goat cheese, this dish is a testament to California’s gardens and pastures. Offering an attainable blend of comfort and nutrition that’s wonderfully versatile, it is no wonder this recipe has a continuous place in my rotation. Delight in the depth of flavor you encounter with each bite, and relish in the knowledge that it embodies my unique Californian twist on traditional American fare.
A Harmony of Flavors and Nutrients
The Asparagus and Goat Cheese Quiche is far more than just a fanciful delight to your palate. Beyond its captivating taste profile, this recipe does well to serve a range of nutritional benefits on your plate. The starring ingredients – asparagus and goat cheese – are not only flavor powerhouses, but also splendid contributors to a healthier dietary regimen.
Asparagus, hailed as a nutrient-dense food, is loaded with vitamins and minerals. This low-calorie vegetable is an admirable source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, E and K, along with several essential minerals (source). Notably, the goat cheese supplies a decent amount of protein, along with vital nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin B, riboflavin, calcium, iron, phosphorous, magnesium and potassium (source). It’s truly a recipe that marries the enjoyment of delightful flavors with beneficial nourishment!
Completing The Meal
This quiche is wonderful as a coveted star of a brunch menu, but it can also mate splendidly with other comfort-driven, health-conscious dishes for a complete meal. Pair it with a light citrusy salad, like a refreshing mix of arugula, orange segments, and a light vinaigrette. Or, for a heartier companion, a roasted sweet potato salad could contrast beautifully with the velvety quiche.
Personally, being amidst the wine valleys, I enjoy pairing this quiche with a glass of crisp white wine as a weeknight dinner. Sonoma County’s Sauvignon Blanc, with its high acidity and fruit-forward notes, complements the creamy, earthy flavors within the Asparagus and Goat Cheese Quiche perfectly. If you’re keen on exploring the Californian wine region more, I recommend starting with this guide.
As you delve into creating this dish, observe the elegance of simplicity and mindfulness to your ingredients, characteristic to West Coast culinary philosophy, flowing through the process. It’s the embodiment of my choice to pack the whole range of Californian culinary assets into one comforting and enriching plate. Try out this Asparagus and Goat Cheese Quiche, and let me know if it enlivens your kitchen as much as it does mine!
What You’ll Need
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded goat cheese
- 1 pre-baked pie crust (9 inches)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Step Two
Place the asparagus in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until asparagus is slightly tender and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
Step Three
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Step Four
Stir in the cooled asparagus and shredded goat cheese before pouring the mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
Step Five
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the quiche is puffed and golden brown, and a knife inserted into the filling comes out clean.
Step Six
Remove from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes before cutting. This ensures the quiche is fully set and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy your Asparagus and Goat Cheese Quiche hot or at room temperature.