This elegant Smoked Salmon Dill Quiche blends rich, savory smoked salmon with the fresh brightness of dill, all nestled in a creamy custard filling. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner, this quiche offers a gourmet twist that’s as impressive as it is delicious. It’s also protein-packed, making it satisfying and wholesome for any occasion.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 prepared 9-inch pie crust
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk)
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 4 oz smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and lightly prick the bottom with a fork.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Spread the smoked salmon, dill, red onion, and shredded cheese evenly over the crust.
- Pour the egg mixture gently over the filling.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the quiche is set in the center and lightly golden on top.
- Let the quiche cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320 kcal per slice (based on 8 servings)
- Total Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Vitamin A: 700 IU
- Vitamin C: 2 mg
- Calcium: 220 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
Flavor Profile of Smoked Salmon Dill Quiche
The smoked salmon imparts a rich, smoky flavor balanced by the fresh, herbaceous notes of dill. Combined with creamy eggs and sharp Swiss cheese, the quiche offers a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and fresh tastes that awaken the palate.
Nutritional Benefits
This quiche is high in protein thanks to the eggs and smoked salmon, which support muscle repair and satiety. It also provides healthy fats, essential vitamins like A and D from the salmon, and calcium from the cheese, making it a nourishing meal option.
Perfect Occasion for Serving
Smoked Salmon Dill Quiche is versatile, making it ideal for brunches, light lunches, or elegant dinner parties. It’s especially popular during weekend gatherings or holiday meals where guests appreciate a gourmet yet approachable dish.
Pairing Suggestions
This quiche pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads, lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted asparagus. For beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing mimosa complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
Crust Choices
While a traditional pie crust is classic, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free crusts for dietary needs. For a lighter option, a crustless version works well and lets the filling shine without added carbs.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover quiche should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 days and reheats nicely in the oven or microwave without losing texture.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the great benefits of this quiche is that it can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate, then bake fresh the next morning for effortless entertaining or meal prep.
Ingredient Substitutions
If smoked salmon isn’t available, smoked trout or cooked wild salmon can be used as alternatives. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley also provide a nice variation to dill for different flavor profiles.
Role of Dill in the Recipe
Dill is a traditional herb that complements fish wonderfully. It adds brightness and a slight anise-like flavor that balances the richness of the salmon and cheese, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.
Eggs as a Binding Agent
Eggs provide the essential custard base that binds the ingredients together and sets the quiche. Their richness creates a smooth, creamy texture that holds the quiche’s filling intact once baked.
Cheese Selection Impact
Using Swiss or Gruyère cheese contributes a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and melts beautifully, enriching the custard’s creaminess. Other cheeses like cheddar or feta could be used for different tastes but may alter texture and saltiness.
Smoking Process and Its Effect
The smoked salmon’s curing and smoking process infuses it with deep, savory flavors. This process also adds complexity and umami, making the quiche more flavorful and indulgent.
Balancing Saltiness
Smoked salmon and cheese are naturally salty, so it’s important to season the custard lightly to avoid overpowering the dish. The balance ensures every bite is flavorful but not too intense.
Textural Contrast
The flaky pie crust offers a pleasant contrast to the soft, creamy interior of the quiche. The smoked salmon’s tender yet slightly firm texture adds another layer of mouthfeel that makes eating this dish satisfying.
Serving Temperature
Smoked Salmon Dill Quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it adaptable for different occasions. Serving it slightly cooled allows the flavors to meld, while warm quiche feels comforting and fresh from the oven.
Health Considerations
While indulgent, this quiche offers a balance of nutrients and can fit into a healthy diet when portioned appropriately. Using low-fat dairy or whole grain crusts can make it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Cultural Origins and Variations
Quiche originated in France but has been embraced globally with countless variations. Adding smoked salmon and dill is a modern gourmet twist that reflects a fusion of traditional French technique with contemporary flavors.
Tips for Perfect Quiche Baking
Achieving the perfect quiche requires careful attention to baking time and temperature. To avoid a soggy crust, blind baking the pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling helps keep it crisp. Also, baking until the custard is just set—slightly wobbly in the center—prevents overcooking and ensures a creamy texture. Letting the quiche rest before slicing allows it to firm up for clean, beautiful servings.
Using Fresh vs. Smoked Salmon
While smoked salmon is traditional and delivers a rich, smoky flavor, fresh salmon can be poached or baked and used as a milder alternative. Fresh salmon offers a more delicate taste and firmer texture, making the quiche lighter but still flavorful. Choosing between fresh or smoked salmon allows customization based on personal preference or availability.
Conclusion
Smoked Salmon Dill Quiche is an elegant, protein-rich dish that balances smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors with a satisfying texture. Its versatility for different meals, ease of preparation, and nutritional benefits make it a standout recipe perfect for both casual and special occasions.