Ham and Asparagus Quiche Recipe

Oyee!, the quiche! It’s that delightful dish that effortlessly straddles the line between breakfast and dinner. For me, every bite of this Ham and Asparagus Quiche takes me back to those lazy Sunday mornings when my grandmother would pull a freshly baked quiche out of the oven. The aroma? Simply intoxicating. Now, combine the savory notes of ham with the fresh, green snap of asparagus, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. But here’s the twist: this isn’t just any quiche. It’s a dance of flavors, textures, and memories, all baked into a golden crust.

Yet, what truly sets this quiche apart is its creamy heart. It’s a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony. Every forkful promises a burst of flavor, a touch of nostalgia, and a hint of adventure. So, are you intrigued? I bet you are. Dive in, explore, and let your taste buds embark on a journey. And trust me, you’ll want to discover the full recipe further down. Let’s get baking!

Table of Contents

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Gearing up for this culinary adventure? Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

All-purpose flour (1 ⅓ cups): The backbone of our crust. This versatile flour provides structure, ensuring a firm yet tender base. It’s the canvas on which we’ll paint our creamy masterpiece.

Salt (⅛ tsp for crust & filling): A pinch here, a dash there. Salt enhances flavors, making them pop. It’s the unsung hero, bridging our ingredients together.

Butter (½ cup, chilled and diced): Ah, butter! It lends richness and a flaky texture to our crust. Remember, cold butter is key. It’s the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Cold water (⅓ cup): It binds our crust ingredients. It’s the glue, ensuring everything comes together just right.

Cream cheese (⅔ cup): The heart of our filling. Creamy, rich, and oh-so-delicious. It adds depth and a velvety touch to our quiche.

Parmesan cheese (¾ cup, grated): This cheese is a game-changer. It’s sharp, salty, and adds a layer of umami. Plus, who can resist its golden melt?

Ham (6 oz, diced): The star protein. Salty, savory, and simply delightful. It complements the asparagus, creating a harmonious duo.

Eggs (4): They set our filling, giving it structure. Eggs are the magic that turns our mix into a custard-like dream.

Heavy cream (1 ½ cups): It’s all about indulgence. The cream adds richness, making our quiche luxuriously smooth.

Scallions (¼ cup, sliced): A subtle touch of freshness. They bring a mild oniony flavor, adding depth without overpowering.

Asparagus (8 spears, trimmed): The green star. Crunchy, fresh, and vibrant. It’s the touch of spring in our dish.

How to Make Ham and Asparagus Quiche

Ready to bring this dish to life? Let’s embark on this culinary journey, step by step:

Setting the Stage with the Pie Crust:

Begin with the basics: flour and salt. Mix them well. This combo forms the foundation of our crust.

Introduce the butter. Remember, it’s chilled. Blend until you spot crumbs. It’s all about texture here.

Now, the water. Add it spoon by spoon. You’re aiming for a doughy ball. Patience is key.

Wrap this beauty in cling wrap. Into the fridge it goes, for a solid 4 hours. It’s nap time for our dough.

Prepping the Oven:

Heat things up! Set your oven to 350°F. We’re getting ready for the magic.

Rolling and Baking the Crust:

Once rested, roll out the dough. Aim for a size that fits a 10-inch pie plate. Lay it in, pressing gently.

Got a fork? Poke the crust’s bottom. This trick prevents bubbles.

Quick bake! Just 3 minutes. It’s a teaser for what’s to come.

Creamy Cheese Layer:

Grab that cream cheese and Parmesan. Microwave them for a quick 30 seconds. Mix until smooth. This cheesy blend goes over our crust. Spread it out evenly.

Adding the Ham:

Dice it, spread it. The ham cubes find their home atop the cheese layer.

Creating the Custard:

Whisk time! Eggs, heavy cream, scallions, and that pinch of salt. Pour this luscious mix over the ham. It’s the heart of our quiche.

The Asparagus Finale:

Lay those asparagus spears. They’re the crown. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan. It’s all about the golden finish.

Baking to Perfection:

Into the oven for 45-48 minutes. You’re looking for set eggs and a golden hue.

Cooling and Serving:

Patience, once more. Let it cool for 10 minutes. Slice and savor every bite.

And there you have it! A culinary masterpiece, ready to impress.

What We Love About This Recipe

Oh, where to begin with this quiche? First off, it’s the harmonious blend of flavors. The savory ham dances with the fresh snap of asparagus. It’s a duet that’s both classic and refreshing. Every bite? A delightful surprise.

Then, there’s the crust. Buttery, flaky, and golden. It’s the kind of crust that makes you close your eyes in appreciation. It’s not just a base; it’s a star in its own right. And paired with the creamy filling? Pure magic.

But what truly steals our hearts is the versatility. Breakfast, brunch, or dinner – this quiche fits right in. It’s that go-to dish, whether you’re hosting a fancy brunch or seeking comfort on a quiet evening. It’s both elegant and homey.

Lastly, the simplicity. No fancy techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients. Just pure, honest cooking. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with love, can create something truly special.

Recipe Variations for Ham and Asparagus Quiche

Feeling adventurous? Let’s play around with this classic quiche and give it some fresh twists:

Veggie Delight: Swap out the ham for a medley of sautéed vegetables. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. It’s a garden on a plate. If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your meal, our Homemade Saged Pear Butter is a must-try.

Cheese Galore: Experiment with different cheeses. How about a mix of feta and mozzarella? Creamy, tangy, and oh-so-melty.

Spice It Up: Add a kick with some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’s a fiery twist for those who love some heat.

Seafood Sensation: Replace the ham with smoked salmon or flaked tuna. It’s a taste of the ocean in every bite.

Go Green: Instead of asparagus, try using spinach or kale. Sauté them lightly with garlic for an earthy touch.

Crust Variations: Venture beyond the classic crust. How about a potato crust or even a cauliflower base? It’s all about that crunchy foundation.

Eggless Wonder: For our vegan friends, use a tofu-based filling. Blend silken tofu with nutritional yeast and spices. It’s creamy and packed with protein.

Sweet and Savory: Add caramelized onions to the mix. Their sweetness complements the savory filling beautifully.

Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Basil, rosemary, or thyme? Chop and sprinkle them in.

Meaty Alternatives: Not a ham fan? Try diced chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon bits. It’s all about that protein punch.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions for Ham and Asparagus Quiche

Wondering how to elevate your quiche experience? Let’s explore some delightful pairings and serving ideas to make your meal truly memorable:

Crisp Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s the perfect counterbalance to the creamy quiche. Light, refreshing, and oh-so-crunchy. For those who love a mix of flavors, our Homemade Moroccan Fried Chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad.

Wine Whims: A glass of chilled white wine, perhaps a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. It complements the quiche’s flavors beautifully.

Hearty Soup: A bowl of tomato basil or a creamy mushroom soup. It’s warmth and comfort, side by side with the quiche.

Crusty Bread: Freshly baked bread or a baguette. Spread some butter, take a bite, and let the magic happen.

Roasted Veggies: Think roasted Brussels sprouts or caramelized carrots. They add a touch of sweetness and earthiness.

Fruit Medley: A fruit salad with berries, kiwi, and a drizzle of honey. It’s a burst of freshness that cleanses the palate.

Chilled Beverages: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea. It’s all about quenching that thirst.

Dips and Spreads: A dollop of salsa or a spoonful of guacamole. It adds a zesty touch to each quiche bite.

Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, from brie to gouda. Pair with some crackers and you’ve got a mini feast.

Dessert Delight: Finish off with a light dessert. Maybe a lemon sorbet or a slice of cheesecake. It’s the sweet end to a savory journey.

Remember, it’s all about the experience. Mix and match, play around, and find your perfect pairing. Bon appétit!

FAQ – Ham and Asparagus Quiche

Can I use a store-bought crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade crust has its charm, store-bought works just fine. It’s a time-saver. Just ensure it’s thawed and fits your pie plate.

I’m not a fan of asparagus. Any alternatives?

Of course! Swap out asparagus for broccoli, spinach, or even bell peppers. Cooking is all about personal touches.

Can this quiche be made ahead of time?

Yes, indeed. Prepare, bake, and once cooled, refrigerate. When ready, reheat in the oven. It’s perfect for those busy days.

How do I store leftovers?

Wrap it up! Use cling film or an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer, consider freezing.

I’m dairy-free. Any suggestions?

No worries! Opt for dairy-free cheeses and a plant-based cream. There are plenty of alternatives out there.

Can I add more proteins to this quiche?

Definitely. Toss in some diced chicken, turkey, or even shrimp. It’s all about making it hearty.

My crust turned out soggy. What went wrong?

Ah, the soggy bottom. Ensure you pre-bake the crust a bit. Also, avoid overfilling. Balance is key.

How do I know when my quiche is done?

The golden rule? A set center. Give your quiche a gentle shake. If it jiggles slightly but isn’t runny, you’re good to go.