Ham, Cheese, and Spinach Quiche

Ham, Cheese, and Spinach Quiche

**Ingredients:**

*For the crust:*
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 3-4 tablespoons ice water

*For the filling:*
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
– Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
– Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
– Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. **Roll Out the Crust:**
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
– Transfer the dough to the pie dish and trim any excess. Crimp the edges as desired.
– Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
– Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
– Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the parchment and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.

4. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
– Layer the ham, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and green onions in the pre-baked crust.

5. **Assemble the Quiche:**
– Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the crust.

6. **Bake:**
– Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
– Allow the quiche to cool slightly before slicing.

7. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
– Serve warm or at room temperature.