Oh, you’re in for a treat with this Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe! This delightful twist on the classic quiche swaps out the traditional crust for soft tortillas, making it lighter and uniquely flavorful. Packed with fresh spinach, fragrant basil, and a creamy egg filling, it’s the perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Using accessible ingredients like fresh spinach and basil brings vibrant taste without fuss.
- Creative Crust Swap: Tortillas replace traditional pastry for a lighter, crispy base that supports the filling perfectly.
- Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: This quiche fits breakfast, brunch, or dinner and impresses with its freshness and charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it deliciously straightforward with ingredients that complement each other beautifully. From the creamy cottage cheese to the sharp cheddar, every element adds a texture or flavor dimension that makes this Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe sing.
- Olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray: Helps crisp the tortillas and keeps the quiche from sticking.
- Soft corn or large flour tortillas: These form the perfect edible crust, offering a mild flavor and great structural base.
- Eggs: The core binding ingredient providing richness and protein.
- Low-fat cottage cheese: Adds creamy texture without heaviness.
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance flavors.
- Fresh spinach: Finely chopped for a healthy pop of green and mild earthiness.
- Garlic clove: Minced to infuse a subtle savory kick.
- Fresh basil leaves: Julienned to sprinkle inside and on top for that aromatic herbaceous punch.
- Roma tomato: Sliced thick to layer freshness and juiciness.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or pepper jack): Brings melty sharpness and a hint of boldness.
- Flaky sea salt: For a finishing touch that makes every bite pop.
- Optional hot sauce: Perfect for those who like to add a spicy twist.
Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations
One of the best things about this Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Feel free to personalize it to your liking or dietary needs. Whether it’s swapping greens or cheeses, this quiche welcomes creativity.
- Cheese Swap: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor that pairs amazingly with basil.
- Greens Upgrade: Substitute kale or arugula if you want a peppery bite instead of mild spinach.
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for a heartier, meaty option.
- Make It Vegan: Use tofu instead of eggs and vegan cheese alternatives for a plant-based version.
How to Make Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 375ºF and giving a 9-inch pie pan a good spritz with cooking spray. This helps everything slide out easily later! Next, gently layer your tortillas in the pan — overlapping them so they cover the bottom and sides fully. This tortilla crust is what gives this quiche its unique charm.
Step 2: Whisk the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, creamy cottage cheese, kosher salt, and fresh black pepper until well combined. Then fold in the finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, and about three-quarters of the basil julienne. This mixture is bursting with fresh, herbal notes that will brighten each bite.
Step 3: Assembly and Baking
Pour your egg and spinach mixture over the layered tortillas in the pie pan. Neatly arrange the thick tomato slices on top, then sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese. Pop this beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until the egg is set and there’s no jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once baked, let your quiche cool for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and slicing to go smoothly. Then sprinkle the remaining fresh basil and flaky sea salt on top for a fresh, crunchy finish. Slice into six servings and serve with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or some creamy avocado slices if you like a little extra richness.
Pro Tips for Making Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe
- Layer the Tortillas Evenly: Overlapping tortillas help create a sturdy crust that crisps up beautifully without breaking.
- Don’t Overbeat the Eggs: Whisk just until combined to keep a tender, custardy texture rather than rubbery.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Add most of the basil into the filling and save some for garnish to enhance aroma and presentation.
- Cool Before Cutting: Let the quiche rest to allow everything to set perfectly — this makes slicing neater and serving easier.
How to Serve Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra basil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevate this quiche’s vibrant flavors. A few cracks of black pepper or a light drizzle of quality olive oil can also add an elegant touch. If you like a little heat, a dash of your preferred hot sauce pairs wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This quiche shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette or a simple fresh fruit salad. Toasted crusty bread or avocado slices add texture and richness, rounding out your meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this quiche in individual mini pans or muffin tins for a party-friendly finger food. You can also plate it with colorful roasted vegetables for a rustic feel or layered with edible flowers for an eye-catching brunch centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the quiche to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect choice for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
Wrap cooled quiche slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a delicious meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat your quiche slices in a preheated oven at 325ºF for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but can soften the tortilla crust.
FAQs
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Can I use regular flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Absolutely! The recipe works well with either soft corn or flour tortillas. Flour tortillas tend to be a bit larger and softer, giving a slightly different texture but just as delicious a base.
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Is it possible to make this quiche dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cottage cheese and cheddar with your favorite dairy-free alternatives or use silken tofu for creaminess. Also, be sure to use tortillas that do not contain dairy.
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Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the quiche up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. This makes it very convenient for busy mornings or entertaining.
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What’s the best way to get a perfectly set quiche?
Bake at a moderate temperature and watch for the filling to lose its jiggle but remain custardy. Letting it cool before slicing helps it finish setting and keeps your slices clean and neat.
Final Thoughts
Trust me — once you try this Tortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe, it’s going to become your go-to for a fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free meal. It’s wonderful for any time of day, easy to make, and as adaptable as you need it to be. So gather those ingredients and put your spin on this gem; your taste buds will thank you!
PrintTortilla Spinach and Basil Egg Quiche Recipe
This Tortilla Quiche is a delightful, light spin on the classic quiche, featuring a crispy tortilla crust filled with a flavorful mixture of eggs, low-fat cottage cheese, fresh spinach, garlic, basil, tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, it makes a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Crust
- Olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray
- 6 small (5-inch) soft corn tortillas or 1 large flour tortilla
Filling
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 12 fresh basil leaves, julienned and divided
- 1 roma tomato, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or pepperjack)
Topping & Optional
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
- Optional: your favorite hot sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and lightly spray a 9-inch pie pan with olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the crust: Arrange the 5-inch tortillas in the pie pan, overlapping them carefully so they fully cover the bottom and all the way up the sides, creating an even tortilla crust base.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, and about three-quarters of the julienned basil leaves until well combined.
- Assemble the quiche: Pour the egg and vegetable mixture evenly over the tortilla crust in the pie pan. Neatly arrange the roma tomato slices on top of the filling, then sprinkle ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
- Bake: Place the assembled quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for 15 minutes. Garnish with the remaining julienned basil leaves and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top.
- Serve: Cut the quiche into 6 slices using a sharp knife. Serve warm with your favorite hot sauce and/or avocado slices if desired. Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful tortilla quiche!
Notes
- Use either small soft corn tortillas or a single large flour tortilla depending on your preference for crust texture.
- Low-fat cottage cheese adds creaminess while keeping the recipe lighter.
- Feel free to swap sharp cheddar with pepperjack or your preferred cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Ensure the egg mixture is fully set before removing from the oven to avoid undercooked centers.
- This quiche can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.
- Optional hot sauce adds a nice kick and complements the savory flavors well.