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Barefoot Contessa Asparagus Quiche Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Asparagus Quiche

Asparagus Quiche is a savory tart filled with a rich custard made of eggs, cream, and cheese, paired with tender asparagus spears. Ina Garten’s version brings out the best in seasonal asparagus with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • All-purpose flour – 1 ¾ cups
  • Unsalted butter – 1 stick (½ cup), cold and diced
  • Ice water – 3-5 tbsp

For the Filling

  • Asparagus – 1 pound, trimmed
  • Eggs – 4 large
  • Heavy cream – 1 ½ cups
  • Gruyère or Fontina cheese – 1 cup, grated
  • Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, grated
  • Salt – 1 tsp (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper – to taste
  • Nutmeg – a pinch (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

  • Make the Dough: In a food processor, pulse the flour, butter, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough just comes together.
  • Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press it into the pan and trim the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork and refrigerate for another 15 minutes.
  • Pre-Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for another 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

  • Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until just tender. Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then pat dry. Trim to fit the tart pan if needed.
  • Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

Assemble and Bake

  • Layer the Filling: Arrange the asparagus in the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. Pour the custard mixture over the top, ensuring it spreads evenly.
  • Bake the Quiche: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
  • Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.