It was a rainy afternoon when I found myself wandering through the local farmer’s market, seeking inspiration for a new dish. The earthy aroma of wild mushrooms wafting from a cozy stall instantly captivated me. As I sampled a few varieties, my mind began to dance with ideas of how to incorporate their rich, complex flavors into a recipe. After some contemplation, I envisioned a quiche, a versatile dish perfect for any meal of the day. This whimsical wild mushroom and goat cheese quiche was born from that inspiration, and it quickly became a beloved staple in my home.

Ingredients

– 1 pre-made pie crust
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup wild mushrooms, cleaned and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the pre-made pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling while baking.

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped wild mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be intoxicating, a sign that you’re on the right track.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until smooth and well combined. Stir in the sautéed mushroom mixture, ensuring every bite will be filled with that delightful flavor.

Pour the egg and mushroom mixture into the prepared pie crust. Crumble the goat cheese over the top, allowing it to nestle into the filling.

Carefully place the quiche in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. The quiche should have a slight jiggle but not be runny.

Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch your guests delight in this whimsical creation.

This wild mushroom and goat cheese quiche is perfect for brunch, a light dinner, or even as a snack throughout the week. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that transports you to that rainy afternoon at the market. Enjoy!