A celebration of summer’s finest flavors, this Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche blends juicy ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheese inside a delicate, buttery crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche brings garden freshness straight to your table with every slice.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 3–4 medium fresh tomatoes, thinly sliced and drained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk for lighter texture)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Press gently into the sides and trim any excess dough.
- Layer the bottom of the crust with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Arrange sliced tomatoes evenly over the cheese. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour egg mixture gently over the tomatoes and basil, ensuring it spreads evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the quiche is set in the center and the top is lightly golden.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 295 per slice (1/8 of quiche)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 25% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
The Charm of Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche
Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche perfectly captures the essence of summer with every slice. The blend of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil not only creates a visually appealing dish but also offers a taste that feels light, comforting, and satisfying. It’s a classic that remains popular because it transforms simple, garden-fresh ingredients into something elegant and memorable.
A Tribute to Seasonal Produce
One of the key appeals of this quiche is its reliance on fresh, seasonal produce. Using sun-ripened tomatoes and freshly picked basil highlights how nature’s simplest ingredients can become the stars of a dish. This focus on freshness makes the quiche a perfect choice for late summer, when tomatoes and basil are at their peak.
Ideal for Any Meal of the Day
While traditionally enjoyed at brunch, Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche fits beautifully into lunch, dinner, or even as part of a special breakfast spread. Its balanced richness and bright flavors mean it can be paired with a fresh salad for a lighter meal or served alongside heartier dishes when more filling fare is desired.
The Versatility of Quiche
Quiche is beloved for its adaptability, and this recipe is no exception. The combination of tomatoes and basil can be customized with different cheeses, crusts, or even additional vegetables. This flexibility makes it easy to personalize the quiche to suit dietary needs, preferences, or simply what’s available in the kitchen.
The Importance of a Good Crust
A flaky, buttery crust is key to the quiche’s overall appeal. Whether homemade or store-bought, the crust provides structure and contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. For those who prefer a lighter option, crustless versions still highlight the freshness of the tomatoes and basil without sacrificing too much texture.
Cheese Choices that Complement
This recipe often uses mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for a salty, nutty bite. Both cheeses enhance the freshness of the tomatoes and the herbal notes of the basil without overwhelming them. Home cooks can also explore alternatives like Gruyère, feta, or goat cheese to create unique flavor profiles.
Balancing Flavors
Tomatoes bring natural sweetness and juiciness, basil adds fresh herbal notes, while the eggs and cream provide a silky, rich texture. The sprinkle of Parmesan ties everything together with a salty finish. This balance ensures that no single ingredient overpowers the dish, resulting in a harmonious flavor in every bite.
Tips for Perfect Results
To avoid a soggy crust, it’s recommended to drain tomato slices before layering them in the quiche. Additionally, lightly blind baking the crust can help keep it crisp. Simple techniques like these can elevate the final result, making the quiche both delicious and visually appealing.
Nutrition Benefits
Beyond taste, this quiche offers a surprising number of nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, basil contributes vitamins and minerals, and eggs supply high-quality protein. Together, these ingredients create a dish that feels indulgent yet still contains valuable nutrients.
Entertaining with Quiche
Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche makes an excellent choice for gatherings and brunches. It can be baked ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature, which takes the stress out of entertaining. Its colorful appearance and inviting aroma often make it a centerpiece dish at any table.
Pairing Suggestions
This quiche pairs beautifully with simple sides, such as mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette, fresh fruit, or even a chilled soup. For beverages, consider pairing it with herbal tea, a glass of crisp white wine, or fresh-squeezed juice to complement the light and fresh flavors.
Cultural Inspiration
While quiche originated in French cuisine, the Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche feels distinctly Mediterranean thanks to the tomatoes and basil. These ingredients evoke sunny gardens and rustic meals shared outdoors, adding to the dish’s timeless, cross-cultural appeal.
A Great Make-Ahead Dish
This quiche keeps well, making it ideal for meal prep or quick weekday lunches. It can be made a day in advance and gently reheated, or enjoyed cold, allowing busy cooks to still serve something homemade and fresh without last-minute effort.
Vegetarian-Friendly and Customizable
By default, this quiche is vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or family meals where dietary needs vary. Those wanting to add more protein might include cooked bacon or sausage, while others can add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Celebrating Simple Ingredients
At its heart, Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche shows that great dishes don’t require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. A few fresh items from the garden or market can come together to create a dish that feels gourmet yet remains approachable.
Conclusion
Fresh Tomato Basil Quiche stands out as a beautiful blend of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. It celebrates the bounty of the season, offering a light yet satisfying option for any meal. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as leftovers, it brings a taste of summer’s best to every table, proving that classic recipes made with fresh ingredients never go out of style.