I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Quiche. It was a crisp autumn afternoon. I was hosting a small brunch with a couple of close friends and I had just discovered the magic of smoked salmon in savory dishes. Someone mentioned quiche, and it was as if the idea clicked in my mind. I knew I had to try this particular recipe from Jamie. The way he blends simple ingredients into something so refined and flavorful is nothing short of genius.
As I made the quiche, the aroma of the creamy filling and delicate salmon started filling the kitchen. The blend of textures and flavors-crunchy crust, silky filling, and smoky fish-left us all in awe. That’s what I love about Jamie Oliver’s recipes; they are sophisticated without being overly complicated.
Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Quiche Recipe
This recipe is the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. Smoked salmon gives it an elegant twist, making it feel like something you’d order in a fancy café but can easily whip up in your own kitchen. It’s the ideal dish for brunch or a light dinner, especially when you want to impress guests without stressing over the preparation.
Jamie’s version is fuss-free and delicious. You don’t need to be a pastry expert to create a beautiful quiche, and the flavors come together effortlessly. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Quiche:
- Smoked salmon (about 200g): You want a high-quality piece with a nice balance of smokiness. I personally like to go for something wild-caught when I can.
- Ready-made shortcrust pastry (1 pack): This takes the stress out of making your own pastry, but feel free to go homemade if you’re up for it.
- Eggs (4 large): These give the quiche its structure and creamy texture.
- Double cream (200ml): Adds richness and silkiness to the filling. You can swap this with crème fraîche for a tangier flavor.
- Milk (150ml): This lightens up the custard and helps achieve that smooth, velvety texture.
- Cheddar cheese (100g, grated): A sharp cheese that adds depth of flavor. Some recipes use Gruyère, but cheddar is a great option for its tanginess.
- Fresh dill (2-3 tablespoons, chopped): Dill and salmon are a classic pairing, and it adds brightness.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): A little zest goes a long way in lifting the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Quiche
Making this quiche is much easier than it looks. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
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Prepare The Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the ready-made shortcrust pastry and line a tart tin (about 9 inches).
- Blind bake it by covering the pastry with parchment paper and filling it with baking beans or rice. Bake for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the paper and beans and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to get a golden crust.
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Make The Filling
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, double cream, milk, cheddar, dill, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Gently fold in the smoked salmon, breaking it into small pieces. Be careful not to overwork it-keep the salmon in nice chunks for a better texture.
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Assemble And Bake
- Pour the egg and salmon mixture into the baked pastry case.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling has set and is golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When you combine smoked salmon with eggs and cream, you’re working with some interesting ingredient chemistry. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Eggs: The proteins in eggs coagulate when heated, creating that custard-like texture. The more eggs you use, the firmer the filling will be.
- Cream and milk: These help create a smooth, silky texture. The fat in the cream helps balance the richness of the eggs and gives the quiche a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Smoked salmon: The smoky, salty flavor from the fish works to elevate the other ingredients. The fat in the salmon also helps keep the quiche moist.
- Cheese: Cheddar adds umami and richness. As it melts, it contributes to the creamy filling while enhancing the flavors.
- Dill and lemon zest: These fresh additions are all about balancing the richness. Dill has a slightly sweet, aniseed flavor that complements the smoked salmon, and lemon zest cuts through the fattiness.
Expert Tips
- Perfect pastry: If you’re using store-bought pastry, make sure to prick the base with a fork before baking to avoid air bubbles.
- Avoid overcooking: Keep a close eye on your quiche as it bakes. It should be just set in the center. Overbaking can make the filling rubbery, so take it out when it’s firm but still a little wobbly.
- Chill the pastry: If you’re using homemade pastry, chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent it from shrinking during baking.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the quiche cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This ensures the filling firms up and makes for cleaner slices.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is versatile, and you can adjust it based on your taste or what you have on hand:
- Swap the smoked salmon: Try substituting smoked mackerel or trout for a different smoky flavor.
- Vegetarian version: For a meat-free quiche, skip the salmon and add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Cheese options: Gruyère or goat cheese would work beautifully in place of cheddar for a more refined taste.
- Add some greens: Fresh peas or asparagus could add color and a bit of crunch.
Final Words
This smoked salmon quiche is an incredibly satisfying dish that combines elegance with simplicity. The depth of flavor from the smoked salmon paired with the richness of the creamy custard is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s just so easy to make! Whether you serve it at brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, it’s sure to impress.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Quiche?
You’ll need smoked salmon, eggs, cream, milk, butter, spinach, cheese, and some seasoning. You can also use a pre-made pastry base for convenience.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Smoked Salmon Quiche Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the quiche ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.
What Can I Substitute For Smoked Salmon In This Quiche?
You can try using cooked chicken, bacon, or even a vegetarian option like roasted mushrooms if you prefer.