GREEK SPINACH AND CHEESE QUICHE SQUARES

Greek cuisine is a beautiful tapestry of flavors, blending the freshness of Mediterranean ingredients with centuries of culinary wisdom. If you’re looking to savor this rich culinary tradition in a new and delightful way, then Greek Spinach and Cheese Quiche Squares should be on your must-try list. These little squares of heaven combine the creaminess of feta cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and the delicate flakiness of pastry, all in one bite. They’re perfect for a brunch, picnic, or as an appetizer at your next gathering. With this unique recipe, you’ll transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Variation:

• Add diced sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Use a combination of spinach and kale for extra greens.

Instructions

For the Crust:

1. Start by making the crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts coming together. Be careful not to overwork it.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and thawed, drained spinach. Cook for a few more minutes until any excess moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Roll out the chilled pastry dough into a square shape and press it into a square baking dish.
6. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the pastry crust, and then pour the egg mixture over it.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is golden brown.

For the Variation:

If you’re feeling creative and want to experiment with flavors, try adding diced sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy twist. The concentrated flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes will elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Alternatively, you can replace some or all of the spinach with kale for a slightly different flavor profile. The combination of spinach and kale not only adds extra greens but also brings a pleasant contrast in texture and taste.

Tips

• When making the pastry crust, it’s essential to keep the butter cold to achieve that flaky texture. You can even freeze the cubed butter for a few minutes before using it.
• Don’t forget to drain the thawed spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the quiche, which can lead to a soggy bottom crust.
• For the perfect texture, make sure to let the quiche squares cool slightly before cutting them. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

In every bite of these Greek Spinach and Cheese Quiche Squares, you’ll experience the essence of Greek cuisine. The creaminess of the feta, the earthy spinach, and the delicate pastry crust combine to create a flavor symphony that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.

These quiche squares are versatile, fitting for any occasion. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch, a picnic in the park, or a fancy appetizer for a dinner party, they never disappoint. With the suggested variations, you can tailor the recipe to your taste, ensuring it’s a unique experience every time you prepare it.

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to Greece without leaving your kitchen. These Greek Spinach and Cheese Quiche Squares are a delightful reminder that great cuisine knows no borders and that, in food, we can find a piece of the world to savor. Enjoy!