Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
The Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Gruyere cheese, savory black forest ham, and peppery arugula. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion, this quiche offers a blend of textures and tastes that will impress your guests. Its creamy filling and flaky crust make it a standout addition to your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this quiche in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of Gruyere cheese and black forest ham creates a savory experience that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it warm for breakfast or at room temperature for brunch—this quiche fits perfectly into any meal plan.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful golden crust and colorful filling make this dish visually appealing for entertaining guests.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the quiche in advance and reheat it before serving for an easy meal solution.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch removable tart pan
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Tart Pan: A removable bottom allows for easy release of the quiche once it’s baked, giving you a perfect presentation.
- Baking Sheet: Placing the tart pan on a baking sheet catches any spills or drips in the oven, making clean-up a breeze.
- Rolling Pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out your pie dough, resulting in a uniform crust.
Ingredients
For the Quiche Crust:
- One recipe of my simple pie dough
For the Quiche Filling:
- 1 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces sliced black forest ham, finely chopped
- 1 cup baby arugula, roughly chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup half-n-half
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Dash cayenne pepper
- Dash white pepper
- Dash nutmeg
- Dash dry mustard
How to Make Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Place a 9-inch removable tart pan on top of a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Set aside. If using homemade pie dough, allow it to rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
When the dough is ready:
1. Roll out the dough into a large 10-inch round or square (depending on your tart pan), about 1/8-inch thick.
2. Place the dough into the pan and line both the bottom and sides with pastry.
3. Gently press down on the dough to adhere it well. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
Sprinkle Gruyere cheese evenly on the bottom of the tart shell, followed by the finely chopped ham, and then add the roughly chopped arugula. Spread each layer evenly for balanced flavor.
Step 4: Mix Egg Filling
In a mixing bowl:
1. Add eggs, heavy cream, half-n-half, salt, cayenne pepper, white pepper, nutmeg, and dry mustard.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 5: Bake the Quiche
Pour your egg mixture over the assembled tart in the pan. Place it in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche!
How to Serve Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
Serving Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche can elevate any meal, whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious quiche.
Pair with a Fresh Green Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the quiche.
Serve with Sliced Tomatoes
- Fresh, ripe tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt provide a refreshing contrast.
Accompany with Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and flavor, creating a satisfying balance on your plate.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness that enhances the presentation.
Offer a Side of Fruit
- A fruit platter featuring berries or melon can bring a sweet touch that pairs well with savory dishes.
Enjoy with a Glass of Wine
- A light white wine or sparkling water elevates the dining experience and enhances the flavors of the quiche.
How to Perfect Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
To achieve the perfect Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche, consider these helpful tips for best results.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh arugula and quality Gruyere cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
- Blind bake the crust: If you’re using store-bought dough, blind baking helps prevent a soggy bottom.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the quiche to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set better.
- Experiment with fillings: Swap out ham for bacon or add other vegetables like spinach for variety.
- Check doneness carefully: The quiche should be firm but slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Store leftovers properly: Wrap any remaining slices in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
Pairing side dishes with your Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche enhances the meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon dressing adds freshness and balances richness.
- Herbed Potato Wedges: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer satisfying crunch.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic complements the flavors of the quiche beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings sweetness and bright color to your plate.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm baguette or sourdough is perfect for soaking up any leftover egg mixture.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a delightful crunch and vibrant green color to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid.
- Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to a soggy crust. Always allow the pie dough to rest for at least 30 minutes.
- Overfilling the quiche: Adding too many ingredients can cause overflow during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect quiche.
- Ignoring the baking time: Every oven is different. Check your quiche a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overcooking.
- Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese can affect flavor and texture. Always opt for good-quality Gruyere for the best results.
- Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the egg mixture can make your quiche bland. Don’t forget salt and spices for enhanced flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste.
Freezing Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche.
Can I use other cheeses in my Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche?
Yes! You can substitute other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, but they will change the flavor profile.
How do I know when my Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche is done?
It’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are slightly golden.
Can I make Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with my Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche?
This quiche pairs well with a light salad or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche is a delightful dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or meats to suit your taste!
Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Gruyere, Ham And Arugula Quiche, a savory tart perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion. This luxurious dish combines the creamy richness of Gruyere cheese with the savory taste of black forest ham and the peppery kick of fresh arugula, all encased in a flaky crust. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this quiche is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering taste. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with a fresh salad or seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 4 ounces finely chopped black forest ham
- 1 cup roughly chopped baby arugula
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup half-and-half
- Pie dough for crust
- Salt and spices (cayenne pepper, white pepper, nutmeg, dry mustard)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare a 9-inch removable tart pan on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roll out pie dough into an even layer and fit it into the tart pan.
- Sprinkle Gruyere cheese on the bottom, followed by ham and arugula.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, half-and-half, salt, and spices until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the filling in the tart shell.
- Bake for about 35 minutes until set; cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (130g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
