Pin
Vegetarian Halloumi Quiche is a lovely combination of buttery crust, warm golden halloumi, and fresh seasonal vegetables wrapped in a creamy savory custard. This dish always gets attention at brunch tables or as an easy weeknight dinner with a crisp salad. Even my most veggie-wary friends have been converted by the salty tang and plush texture of the halloumi tucked inside each slice.
I first made this when searching for a dish to bring to a summer picnic. It vanished before I got a second slice. Halloumi was new to me then but now it stars in meals again and again for us.
Gather Your Ingredients
- All purpose flour: Gives a tender base that stands up to the creamy filling. Look for unbleached for better flavor
- Cold butter: Makes a flaky crisp crust. Use the best quality you can
- Cold water: Helps the butter stay chill so the pastry is light
- Salt: Brightens everything in the crust and filling
- Halloumi cheese: Provides a unique salty chew that holds its shape unlike most cheeses. Choose fresh blocks and grate or dice right before baking
- Small onion: Offers a gentle sweetness. White or yellow both work for this
- Bell pepper: Brings color and a soft bite. Red or yellow are naturally sweeter and look beautiful in the final dish
- Fresh spinach: Adds a lovely leafy green layer. Use vibrant, perky leaves for best results
How to Make It
- Prepare the Pastry Dough:
- Work the cold diced butter into the flour and pinch of salt with your fingertips or a pastry blender until you have a coarse crumb. Drizzle in cold water slowly using just enough to pull the dough together. Shape quickly into a disc, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes so the butter firms up.
- Prebake the Crust:
- Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a tart or pie pan. Trim the edges and prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbles. Line with parchment and fill with baking beans or weights. Bake at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes just until set but not browned.
- Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
- Gently sauté the finely chopped onion and bell pepper over medium heat in a splash of olive oil until fragrant and softened but not browned. Add the spinach and cook just until wilted then remove from the heat and set aside.
- Layer the Veggies and Cheese:
- Scatter the sautéed vegetables evenly over the prebaked crust. Tuck in the grated or cubed halloumi so it is nestled throughout the pan for maximum cheesy bites.
- Mix the Egg Custard:
- Whisk together four large eggs and one cup milk with a pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper. Pour this mixture gently over the filling making sure it reaches all corners. Tap the pan on the counter to settle out air pockets.
- Bake the Quiche:
- Slide the dish onto the middle rack of a preheated oven at 375 degrees and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The surface should be golden and just set with a tiny jiggle in the very center. Cool about 10 minutes before slicing so the filling is creamy but not loose.
If I had to pick a hero in this quiche it is the halloumi. The first time my family tried it we could not believe how the edges stayed golden and crisp with a soft bite inside. My kids always ask for extra cubes on top just because they cannot resist those toasty bits. The scent of quiche baking takes me back to cozy Sundays at home with music playing.
Flavor Boosters
Quiche stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Simply cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. To reheat slices warm them in an oven or toaster oven so the crust stays crisp. You can also enjoy it cold straight from the fridge which makes it perfect for summer meals or travel meals.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your quiche with a simple arugula or mixed green salad for a light meal. It makes a stunning brunch centerpiece alongside fresh fruit. Thin wedges work well as appetizers. I also like to serve it with a dollop of harissa yogurt or a spoon of tomato chutney for extra zip.
Creative Twists
Swap the bell pepper for roasted zucchini mushroom or even asparagus depending on the season. Feta can be substituted if you do not have halloumi. For a dairy free option use plant based cheese but be mindful of melting texture. If you cannot find fresh spinach frozen chopped spinach will work if you squeeze out excess water.
Once you try this quiche you will want to make it again and again. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout at any meal.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of crust works best for this dish?
A homemade all-butter shortcrust delivers the best flavor and texture, but a quality store-bought crust is a convenient option.
- → Can I use other cheeses besides halloumi?
Halloumi adds signature flavor and texture, but you can substitute with feta or paneer for a different twist while keeping it vegetarian.
- → How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Blind bake the pastry before adding the filling and ensure vegetables are sautéed to reduce moisture before layering them in the crust.
- → Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes, it can be baked, cooled, and refrigerated for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve the texture.
- → Is it suitable for freezing?
Slice and wrap portions well for freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to retain crispness.