Seafood Quiche

Seafood Quiche

Seafood quiche is a delightful twist on the classic French dish, offering a rich, savory flavor that combines the creaminess of eggs and cheese with the delicate tastes of seafood.

This dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and can be served warm or at room temperature. The creamy custard filling pairs beautifully with tender shrimp, crab, or a mix of both, while the buttery, flaky crust adds a satisfying crunch.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a meal for your family, seafood quiche is an elegant and versatile dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

3-4 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

1/2 lb crab meat (fresh or canned), drained

1 small onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

3 large eggs

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup whole milk

1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp paprika

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make:

Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overworking the dough. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Blind Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim off any excess. To prevent the crust from puffing up during baking, line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Prepare the Seafood Filling: While the crust is baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. If using spinach, add it to the pan during the last minute of cooking and let it wilt. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheese.

Assemble the Quiche: Once the seafood mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the pre-baked crust. Pour the egg mixture over the seafood, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the filling is evenly distributed.

Bake the Quiche: Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.

Cool and Serve: Let the quiche cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Chef’s Note:

For added flavor, you can experiment with different types of seafood, such as scallops, lobster, or even smoked salmon. You can also substitute the Gruyère or Swiss cheese with sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. To make the quiche even richer, try adding a bit of Dijon mustard or freshly grated nutmeg to the custard. If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can use a pre-made gluten-free crust.

This quiche can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or parties. You can also freeze the unbaked quiche for up to a month; just bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutrition Information (per serving, 6 servings total):

Calories: 430

Protein: 28g

Carbohydrates: 17g

Fat: 30g

Saturated Fat: 13g

Cholesterol: 250mg

Sodium: 670mg

Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 3g

Seafood quiche is a decadent, yet light dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. The blend of seafood, cheese, and creamy custard makes each bite satisfying, while the buttery crust adds a comforting texture. Whether you’re serving it at a special brunch or enjoying it as a weeknight meal, seafood quiche is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.