Julia Child'S Sweet Onion Quiche
Sweet onion quiche showcases the rich, caramelized flavors of tender onions complemented by a creamy egg filling and a buttery crust. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner, it appeals to onion lovers and those seeking a savory, comforting dish with a delicate hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a large saute pan. Saute sliced onions until soft, but not browned.
- In a separate pan, heat butter and saute shallots briefly.
- Add shallots to onions and continue cooking until the mixture is tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg; let cool.
- In a bowl, blend eggs with enough milk or cream to make 1 1/2 cups of liquid.
- Spread grated cheese evenly in the prebaked pie shell.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and onion mixture in the pie shell.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of sweet onions and shallots. If you prefer a lighter quiche, substitute half of the cream with milk. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the overall taste. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless quiche. Ensure the onions are well-cooked for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quiche warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for brunch or a light lunch. Pair it with a fresh mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. It also complements dishes like Baked Carrot Sticks or a bowl of Cold Avocado Soup. For an elegant touch, sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the quiche tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method keeps the crust crispy and the filling creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Julia Child'S Sweet Onion Quiche contains roughly 778 calories, with 11g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1665mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use yellow onions instead of sweet onions?
Yes, you can use yellow onions, but the quiche will have a sharper flavor. To mellow the taste, consider adding a bit of sugar while sautéing the onions. Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are preferred for their milder sweetness.
Can I freeze the quiche?
Yes, you can freeze the quiche before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Baked quiche can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
What type of cheese works best in this quiche?
Grated Gruyère cheese is a great choice due to its nutty flavor and excellent melting properties. You can also use a combination of cheeses like Swiss or cheddar for a different taste profile. Experiment to find your favorite blend!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).