If you’re looking for a dish that combines elegance with comforting homemade goodness, this Salmon Quiche Recipe will quickly become your go-to for brunches, dinner parties, or even a special weeknight treat. The buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect base for a creamy filling bursting with the delicate flavors of smoked salmon, fresh dill, tender asparagus, and rich Gruyere cheese. Every bite promises a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. It’s truly a showstopper that’s easier to make than you might think!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward this flavorful masterpiece. Each item is a simple staple, yet together they create a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and fresh notes that make this quiche incredibly special.
- Homemade or store-bought quiche crust: A good flaky crust is the foundation, providing structure and buttery goodness.
- Butter (15g / 1 tbsp, unsalted): Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle richness to the leek and garlic base.
- Leek (white part only, halved and thinly sliced): Offers a mild onion-like sweetness that complements the richness of the salmon.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.
- Asparagus spears (8-10): Provides a crisp, fresh bite and a lovely pop of green color.
- Eggs (5 large): The binder that turns the filling into a light yet creamy custard.
- Full-fat cream (1 1/2 cups / 375ml): Essential for a luscious, silky texture in the quiche filling.
- Salt (1/4 tsp) and pepper (a pinch): Simple seasoning to bring everything together.
- Fresh dill (2 tbsp, roughly chopped): Infuses the quiche with a bright, herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Smoked salmon (200g / 7 oz, cut into 4cm pieces): The star ingredient delivering a smoky, savory punch.
- Gruyere cheese (3/4 cup / 75g, grated): Melts smoothly and adds a nutty depth of flavor.
- Dill sprigs and extra smoked salmon: Perfect for garnish and to impress your guests visually.
How to Make Salmon Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Whether you’re using a homemade or ready-made shortcrust pastry, gently press it into your 9-inch pie dish, ensuring there are no air bubbles. For a perfectly crisp base, prick the dough with a fork and bake it blind (with pie weights or dried beans) for about 10 minutes. This step keeps your crust wonderfully crisp and prevents sogginess from the creamy filling.
Step 2: Sauté the Leek, Garlic, and Asparagus
While the crust is partially baking, melt the unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and minced garlic, cooking them until tender and fragrant but not browned—this gentle sautéing brings out their natural sweetness. Then toss in the asparagus pieces, cooking for just a few minutes until they are tender-crisp. This subtle cooking helps the vegetables hold texture and flavor inside the quiche.
Step 3: Mix the Custard Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and full-fat cream until smooth. Season with salt and a pinch of pepper for balanced seasoning. Stir in the chopped fresh dill, smoked salmon pieces, cooked leek and asparagus, and grated Gruyere cheese. The result is a rich, flavorful custard that will set beautifully in the oven, with those wonderful pops of fish and cheese throughout.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling evenly into your pre-baked quiche crust. Smooth the top gently to ensure even cooking. Place in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. To check doneness, insert a knife into the center – it should come out clean with only a little fluff of cooked custard attached. Let the quiche cool briefly before slicing.
How to Serve Salmon Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your quiche with delicate dill sprigs and thin slices or curls of smoked salmon adds a fresh, inviting touch that makes every serving feel special. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also elevate the fresh flavors from the filling.
Side Dishes
This Salmon Quiche Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and radish slaw. These sides bring brightness and crunch, balancing the quiche’s rich creaminess perfectly. Roasted new potatoes or a light vegetable soup also make lovely companions for a fuller meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual quiche slices on rustic wooden boards alongside small ramekins of mustard sauce or horseradish cream for an elegant touch. For brunch gatherings, cut the quiche into bite-sized squares and serve as finger food with herb-infused dips. It’s a versatile dish that shines in many forms, always inviting compliments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Salmon quiche keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. This makes it an ideal dish to prepare in advance or enjoy the deliciousness of the next day with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead even more, this recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, then store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover quiche slices gently in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as the oven preserves the flaky crust and creamy filling textures much better.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?
While fresh salmon can be used, the smoky flavor is a signature in this Salmon Quiche Recipe. If you decide to use fresh salmon, cook it beforehand and season accordingly to bring out a similar depth of flavor.
Is it necessary to blind bake the crust?
Blind baking helps avoid a soggy bottom by partially cooking the crust before adding the moist filling. It’s highly recommended for the best texture but you can skip it if you’re short on time—just expect a slightly softer base.
What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?
Gruyere provides a nutty, melting quality, but Swiss cheese, Emmental, or even a sharp cheddar can work as tasty alternatives. Just choose one that melts well and complements smoked salmon.
Can I make this quiche vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the smoked salmon and consider adding extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers to keep the filling flavorful and satisfying.
How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?
The filling should be set but still slightly wobbly in the middle when you gently shake the pan. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean, indicating the custard has firmed up without overbaking.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon Quiche Recipe is a fantastic way to impress your guests or treat yourself to a hearty yet elegant meal. The blend of creamy custard with smoky salmon, fresh herbs, and tender asparagus wrapped in a buttery crust is timeless and deeply satisfying. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as I do—it’s truly a recipe worth keeping close to your heart and kitchen!
