Spinach-Artichoke Quiche

 SPINACH-ARTICHOKE QUICHE

from Love Real Food cookbook

Thyme Almond Meal Crust:

2 c. packed almond meal (8 oz)

3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced

1 t. dried thyme

1/2 t. fine sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/3 c extra-virgin olive oil

1 T plus 1 t water

Spinach-Artichoke Filling:

2 t. olive oil

3 c packed baby spinach (about 3 oz), roughly chopped

4 eggs

1 c milk

1/2 t fine sea salt

1/4 t red pepper flakes

1 c drained and roughly chopped marinated artichokes

1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 oz), divided

!. To make the crust: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet or 9-inch pie pan with olive oil. In a medium bowl, stir together the almond meal, garlic, thyme, salt and several twists of pepper. Pour in the olive oil and water and stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined.

2. Press the dough into a prepared skillet or pan until it is evenly dispersed across the bottom and up the sides (if you are using a cast iron skillet, make sure the dough goes at least 1 1/4 inches up the sides). Bake until the crust is lightly golden and firm to the touch, 15 to 20 min.

3. Meanwhile, to prepare the filling: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Swirl the pan to coat, then toss in the spinach. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach has wilted and there is very little moisture left in the pan, 2-4 min. Transfer the mixture to a plate to cool.

4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper flakes. Stir in the slightly cooled spinach mixture, chopped artichokes, and most of the Parmesan, reserving a couple of tablespoons for sprinkling on top later.

5. Once the crust is done baking, pour in the egg mixture and top it with the remaining Parmesan. Return to the oven and bake until the center is firm to the touch and cooked through, 30-33 min. Let the quiche cool for 5-10 min before slicing it into 6-8 even wedges (depending on desired serving size) with a sharp knife. Serve immediately.