Tomato Basil Caprese Quiche

This Tomato Basil Caprese Quiche transforms classic Italian caprese flavors into a delicious breakfast or brunch dish. The combination of fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and melty mozzarella creates a satisfying meal that works any time of day.

I first made this quiche for a weekend brunch with friends and it's become my signature dish. The aroma of basil and garlic fills my kitchen every time I bake it, bringing back memories of that perfect gathering.

Ingredients

• Pie crust provides the perfect buttery foundation for this quiche. Store-bought works perfectly, but homemade adds extra flavor
• Parmesan cheese creates two flavorful layers and adds wonderful umami depth
• Spinach brings nutritional value and a lovely color contrast to the other ingredients
• Mozzarella cheese delivers that classic stretchy, melty quality essential for a caprese experience
• Fresh basil leaves are non-negotiable here. Their aromatic quality transforms the entire dish
• Ripe tomato slices add juicy brightness. Choose firm but ripe tomatoes for best results
• Eggs form the protein-rich custard base that holds everything together
• Whole milk and cream create the perfect silky texture. Full-fat dairy makes all the difference
• Fresh minced garlic infuses the egg mixture with aromatic flavor
• Salt and pepper balance and enhance all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Ensure your pie crust is thawed if using frozen. The first layer of parmesan creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess while adding incredible flavor to every bite.

Layer the Fillings

Start with spinach as your base. This creates a nutritious foundation that complements the mozzarella beautifully. Next add the mozzarella evenly across the spinach. The fresh basil should be generously scattered throughout for maximum flavor distribution. Arrange tomato slices in a single layer for even cooking and visual appeal. The final parmesan sprinkle adds a wonderful savory note.

Mix the Custard

Thoroughly combine eggs, milk, cream, garlic, salt and pepper until completely smooth. This ensures your quiche has a consistent texture throughout. The mixture should be poured carefully over the fillings, allowing it to seep between layers without disturbing your arrangement.

Bake to Perfection

Place the quiche on a cookie sheet to catch any potential spillover during baking. The quiche needs adequate time to set properly. Look for a golden brown top and slight jiggle in the center. Cooling for 5 to 10 minutes allows the custard to finish setting and makes slicing cleaner.

Bookmark

The fresh basil is truly the star of this recipe. When I grow basil in my summer garden, this quiche becomes a weekly tradition. My children have come to associate the smell of this quiche baking with lazy weekend mornings, and they often hover in the kitchen waiting for it to cool enough to slice.

Make-Ahead Magic

This quiche can be prepared up to two days in advance and refrigerated before baking. Simply assemble all layers, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator while preheating the oven. You may need to add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile quiche pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to complement the caprese flavors. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and mimosas. For a heartier dinner, roasted potatoes make an excellent side dish. A sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving adds a beautiful pop of color and fresh flavor.

Seasonal Variations

Summer tomatoes make this dish spectacular, but you can enjoy it year-round with some adaptations. In winter, use halved cherry tomatoes which tend to have better flavor off-season. In spring, consider adding asparagus tips alongside the tomatoes. Fall brings the opportunity to incorporate roasted bell peppers for a different but complementary flavor profile.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be easily modified for different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust or create a potato crust. Vegetarians will appreciate this as a protein-rich option already suited to their needs. For those avoiding dairy, plant-based cheeses can work, though the texture will differ slightly from the original recipe.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this quiche a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or serve cold if preferred.

→ What can I substitute for the cream in this recipe?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the cream with half-and-half or additional whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut milk can work, though it will impart a slight coconut flavor to the dish.

→ How do I prevent a soggy pie crust?

To prevent a soggy crust, you can blind bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. Another technique is sprinkling the parmesan cheese on the bottom first (as the recipe suggests), which creates a barrier between the wet filling and the crust.

→ Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of a large tomato?

Yes, cherry tomatoes make an excellent substitute. Slice them in half and arrange them cut-side up on top of the basil layer. They often have more concentrated flavor and less moisture than larger tomatoes, which can help prevent sogginess.

→ How do I know when the quiche is fully cooked?

The quiche is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set but still has a slight jiggle, similar to gelatin. You can also insert a knife into the center - it should come out clean without liquid egg mixture attached. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when tested with a food thermometer.

→ What sides pair well with this quiche?

This quiche pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, fresh fruit, or crusty bread. For brunch, consider serving it alongside mimosas or a light soup.