Fluffy Turnip Quiche

A Light and Unique Twist on a Classic Quiche

Quiche is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy filling encased in a flaky crust. While traditional versions often feature ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or ham, this Fluffy Turnip Quiche introduces a delightful, unexpected twist. Turnips, with their mild sweetness and slight peppery notes, blend beautifully with eggs, cheese, and herbs to create a dish that is both light and satisfying.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner, this quiche is a versatile and nutritious option. Plus, the texture is irresistibly fluffy, thanks to a well-balanced egg and dairy mixture.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: Turnips add a subtle sweetness and depth to the classic quiche.
• Fluffy Texture: Achieved by the perfect egg-to-cream ratio, making every bite light and airy.
• Versatile: Great for any meal of the day and easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped in advance and reheated without losing quality.
• Nutrient-Packed: Turnips are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

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Ingredients

For the crust (optional, or use a store-bought pie crust):

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 2 medium turnips, peeled and grated (about 1 ½ cups)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, or cheddar work well)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but enhances flavor)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust (Skip if Using Pre-Made)

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface, fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, and trim the edges.
6. Pre-bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, using pie weights or dried beans to prevent bubbling.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the oil.
2. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the grated turnips and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Quiche

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg.
2. Stir in the cooked turnip mixture and shredded cheese.
3. Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.

4. Bake the Quiche

1. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly wobbly.
3. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Variations

• Crustless Version: Skip the crust for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative. Grease the pie dish well before adding the filling.
• Cheese Options: Try feta for a tangy twist or smoked Gouda for depth.
• Add-Ins: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Herb Swaps: Use rosemary, dill, or parsley instead of thyme for a different aromatic profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second increments.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use turnip greens in this quiche?

Yes! Chop and sauté the greens along with the onion for extra nutrition and flavor.

Do I need to peel the turnips?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but young, tender turnips can be grated with the skin on.

How do I make this quiche extra fluffy?

Whisk the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air and use full-fat cream for the lightest texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, bake the quiche ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

What type of cheese works best?

Gruyère, Swiss, and sharp cheddar all complement the turnip’s flavor.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich. Whole milk works best as a substitute.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Pre-baking the crust and slightly cooling the filling before adding it helps prevent sogginess.

Is this quiche gluten-free?

The filling is naturally gluten-free. Use a gluten-free crust or make it crustless.

Can I use other root vegetables?

Absolutely! Try parsnips, rutabaga, or carrots for a similar texture and flavor.

Why is my quiche watery?

Overbaking or using too much liquid can cause separation. Stick to the recipe proportions for best results.

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Conclusion

Fluffy Turnip Quiche is an elegant yet simple dish that brings a fresh take to the traditional quiche. With its airy texture, mild sweetness, and a perfectly balanced mix of eggs, cream, and cheese, it’s a great choice for brunch, a light lunch, or even dinner. Plus, with plenty of ways to customize it, you can make it your own. Try it once, and it might just become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

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