This Smoked Salmon Dill Quiche is a gourmet yet easy-to-make dish that brings together the richness of eggs and cream, the delicate smokiness of salmon, and the bright, herby flavor of fresh dill. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light lunch, this savory pie is baked in a flaky crust and can be served warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or a simple family meal, this protein-packed recipe offers elegance and nutrition in every slice.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 prepared 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 3 oz smoked salmon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and pre-bake it for 8 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
- Distribute the smoked salmon, red onion, dill, and capers (if using) over the cheese layer.
- Pour the egg mixture over the fillings, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is just set and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of quiche)
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 460mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Vitamin A: 700IU (14%)
- Vitamin C: 2mg (3%)
- Calcium: 120mg (12%)
- Iron: 1.4mg (8%)
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: ~650mg (varies by salmon type)
Gourmet Appeal in Everyday Cooking
The smoked salmon dill quiche brings a gourmet touch to home kitchens, making it a fantastic way to elevate everyday meals. With its delicate combination of savory smoked salmon and aromatic dill, this dish feels luxurious without being complicated. It’s a favorite for those who want to serve something impressive, yet attainable. Whether for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche turns a regular meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.
Nutritional Powerhouse
This quiche is a nutritional powerhouse due to the synergy of ingredients like eggs, smoked salmon, and fresh herbs. It offers high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, B12, and selenium. These nutrients support brain function, heart health, and energy levels. As a well-rounded meal, it satisfies both taste and dietary needs, making it ideal for health-conscious individuals.
Excellent Source of Protein
With eggs and smoked salmon as primary ingredients, this quiche is packed with protein. One slice provides a substantial protein boost that supports muscle repair and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It’s a great option for people following a high-protein diet or looking for long-lasting satiety throughout the day. This dish proves you don’t need meat-heavy meals to meet your protein needs.
Omega-3 Benefits from Salmon
Smoked salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function. Including salmon in a baked dish like this quiche not only adds flavor but also infuses the meal with these heart-healthy fats. For those looking to boost their omega-3 intake without taking supplements, this dish is a delicious solution.
Flavorful Fresh Dill Addition
Dill brings a burst of freshness and complexity to the quiche. This herb pairs beautifully with salmon and eggs, offering a slightly tangy and earthy flavor that balances the richness of the other ingredients. Its presence transforms the quiche from basic to refined, making it more exciting for the palate. Dill is also rich in antioxidants, contributing both taste and health benefits.
Perfect for Any Meal of the Day
Smoked salmon dill quiche is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s filling enough for a main course yet light enough to serve alongside a salad or soup. Its adaptability makes it ideal for meal planning or for occasions where you need a dish that transitions easily between meals. This is truly an all-day recipe.
Ideal for Make-Ahead Meals
This quiche can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for convenience. It reheats well without losing its flavor or texture, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays or preparing meals for guests in advance. For meal preppers and busy families, having a quiche on hand ensures you always have something wholesome and tasty available.
Elegant Presentation
Beyond flavor, the visual appeal of this quiche contributes to its popularity. The contrast of pink smoked salmon, green dill, and golden-brown crust creates a vibrant and inviting presentation. It looks stunning when sliced and plated, making it a beautiful addition to brunch buffets, potlucks, or dinner parties. Its appearance reflects the quality ingredients inside.
Customizable to Taste
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the herbs, add vegetables like spinach or leeks, or swap the cheese to match your preference. This adaptability allows cooks to personalize the dish while maintaining its core identity. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply exploring flavor variations, this quiche remains a reliable base.
Pairs Well with Many Sides
The flavors in this quiche pair wonderfully with a wide range of side dishes, including leafy green salads, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit. It also complements beverages such as sparkling water, white wine, or herbal tea. These pairing options make it easy to build a complete and balanced meal around the quiche for any time of day.
Great for Entertaining Guests
This dish is a favorite for entertaining due to its elegance and ease of serving. It can be prepared in advance and served warm or at room temperature, allowing hosts to focus on guests rather than the kitchen. The sophisticated flavors make a lasting impression, making it a popular choice for baby showers, bridal brunches, and small gatherings.
Gluten-Free and Crustless Options
For those following a gluten-free diet, the quiche can be made crustless or with a gluten-free crust without compromising taste or texture. A crustless version offers fewer carbs and fewer calories, making it a great choice for people on specific nutritional plans like keto or low-carb diets. This makes the recipe inclusive for a wider range of dietary needs.
Supports Mindful Eating
Thanks to its satisfying ingredients and elegant presentation, smoked salmon dill quiche encourages slower, more mindful eating. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to savor each bite, which can help with digestion and portion control. Mindful eating promotes a better relationship with food and allows diners to appreciate the flavors and textures in a deeper way.
Seasonal and Locally Sourced Ingredients
Using fresh, seasonal dill and locally sourced smoked salmon enhances the flavor and sustainability of the dish. Supporting local food producers often means better ingredient quality and a smaller carbon footprint. Highlighting this aspect can appeal to eco-conscious eaters and those who value farm-to-table dining.
Balanced Macronutrient Profile
This quiche offers a balanced mix of macronutrients—protein from eggs and salmon, fat from cream and cheese, and carbohydrates from the crust. This combination ensures a stable energy release and keeps you full longer. For those watching their macronutrient ratios, this dish provides a well-rounded meal without the need for supplementation or extra planning.
Impressive Yet Easy to Prepare
Despite its gourmet appeal, this quiche is surprisingly simple to make. It doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, which makes it accessible to beginners and home cooks alike. The ingredients are easy to find, and the prep is straightforward, making it a go-to option for those looking to impress without stress.
Encourages Leftover Creativity
Leftover smoked salmon dill quiche can be creatively repurposed into new meals. Try slicing it into strips for a wrap, pairing it with crackers for a quick lunch, or adding it to a salad bowl. Its versatility reduces food waste and inspires resourcefulness in the kitchen, offering continued enjoyment beyond the first serving.
Conclusion
Smoked salmon dill quiche is more than just a tasty recipe—it’s a well-rounded, elegant, and highly adaptable dish that satisfies both the palate and the body. Rich in protein and omega-3s, packed with flavor, and easy to customize, this quiche is ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether you’re preparing ahead for the week or hosting a weekend brunch, this recipe offers gourmet satisfaction with minimal effort.