This Greek Quiche with Olives & Feta is a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together the bold flavors of briny Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs in a flaky crust. Perfect for a weekend brunch, light lunch, or even a make-ahead breakfast, this quiche delivers savory satisfaction in every bite. Its rich yet balanced taste reflects classic Greek ingredients, making it a standout centerpiece for any gathering.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch quiche or pie pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Pre-bake for 8–10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the red onion until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook just until spinach wilts. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or half-and-half), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the sautéed vegetables evenly in the bottom of the crust. Add olives and sprinkle with feta and mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the filling. Use a spoon to gently distribute ingredients evenly if needed.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and top is lightly golden.
- Let quiche rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 265
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 570mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Vitamin A: 18% DV
- Vitamin C: 8% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Mediterranean Influence in Everyday Cooking
The Greek Quiche with Olives & Feta showcases the vibrant, healthful essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its heavy use of olive oil, fresh vegetables, and bold, tangy cheeses, this dish brings the flavors of Greece to any kitchen. It’s a great way to introduce global flavors into everyday meals without needing exotic or hard-to-find ingredients. Mediterranean diets are known for their health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and improved longevity, and this quiche fits beautifully within that tradition.
Nutritional Value of Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a staple in Greek cuisine and offers a salty, crumbly texture that enhances the flavor of any dish. Beyond taste, feta is lower in fat and calories compared to many other cheeses and provides calcium, protein, and probiotics that aid digestion. It’s a fermented product, which supports gut health, and its intense flavor means you can use less without sacrificing taste, helping reduce overall sodium and calorie intake.
The Role of Olives in Mediterranean Diets
Kalamata olives are another quintessential Greek ingredient used in this quiche, offering a rich, briny depth. Olives are high in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and can help regulate cholesterol levels. They also provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, including vitamin E and polyphenols. Their strong flavor complements the creaminess of the feta, making each bite of quiche complex and satisfying.
Spinach as a Nutrient Booster
Spinach adds color and nutrition, offering high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and magnesium. In cooked form, spinach shrinks considerably, allowing you to incorporate a generous amount into the quiche without overwhelming the texture. It’s ideal for breakfast or brunch dishes where a nutrient-dense vegetable is needed without overpowering the dish.
Why Sun-Dried Tomatoes Work So Well
Sun-dried tomatoes add a punch of umami flavor and subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of feta and olives. They’re concentrated in flavor and nutrients, including antioxidants like lycopene, which is more bioavailable when tomatoes are cooked or dried. This component enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile and elevates the overall taste complexity of the quiche.
Eggs as a High-Quality Protein Source
Eggs are the structural foundation of any quiche, binding the ingredients while delivering high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline, vitamin B12, and selenium. In this Greek-style recipe, eggs serve as a neutral yet rich base that allows the bold Mediterranean ingredients to shine without competing for attention.
The Perfect Pie Crust
The choice of pie crust is crucial in this recipe. A flaky, buttery crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy, salty interior. Using a pre-baked crust helps prevent sogginess and ensures a crisp texture throughout. For health-conscious eaters, a whole-wheat or gluten-free version can be substituted without compromising too much on texture or flavor.
Flavor Pairing Suggestions
This quiche pairs well with a simple side salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, enhancing the citrus and herbal notes of the dish. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes or a chilled cucumber yogurt dip (tzatziki) for a more complete Mediterranean meal. As for beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly sparkling mineral water complements its tangy and savory profile.
Customizing the Recipe to Suit Preferences
The beauty of this quiche lies in its adaptability. You can replace spinach with kale or arugula, use goat cheese in place of feta for a creamier consistency, or swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a milder sweetness. Meat lovers can incorporate cooked pancetta or Greek sausage, while vegetarians can double the greens for added volume and fiber.
Making It Ahead for Easy Brunches
This Greek quiche is ideal for preparing ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for entertaining. You can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked, then pop it into the oven in the morning. Alternatively, bake it fully and reheat individual slices. The texture and flavor remain intact even after reheating, which is perfect for busy schedules.
Serving Temperature and Presentation Tips
The quiche can be served warm, at room temperature, or even cold, depending on the occasion. For presentation, garnish with a few extra olive slices, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like oregano or dill, and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. Serving it in wedges on a rustic wooden board or white ceramic platter brings out its Mediterranean charm.
Storage and Leftover Guidelines
Store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven to maintain its crispy crust and creamy interior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
Dietary Adjustments for Special Needs
This recipe can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free pie crust. For lactose-intolerant individuals, consider using lactose-free cheese alternatives or increasing the vegetable content and reducing the dairy. To reduce fat content, substitute whole milk with skim milk or a plant-based milk with a neutral flavor, such as oat or almond.
Cultural and Culinary Significance
Greek quiches like this one draw inspiration from traditional dishes such as spanakopita (spinach and feta pie) and bring them into a modern brunch context. They represent a bridge between cultural heritage and everyday convenience, making Mediterranean cuisine more accessible to home cooks worldwide. The ingredients not only taste great but tell a story of regional flavors and healthy traditions.
Kids and Family-Friendly Brunch Idea
While some children may shy away from bold flavors like olives or feta, the creamy texture and mild egg base make this an easy dish to introduce new tastes. You can reduce or omit olives for a milder version or add a touch of shredded cheddar to appeal to younger palates. Serving it in mini muffin tins also makes it fun and portion-friendly for kids’ lunches or snacks.
Seasonal Versatility and Year-Round Appeal
Although inspired by summer and Mediterranean gardens, this quiche is highly adaptable to any season. In colder months, swap in roasted butternut squash or caramelized onions for a warm, earthy twist. In spring, use tender asparagus tips or fresh dill. Its base ingredients—eggs, milk, crust—remain the same, allowing you to build flavors based on what’s fresh and available.
Conclusion
Greek Quiche with Olives & Feta is more than just a brunch dish—it’s a versatile, nutrient-rich, and deeply flavorful centerpiece for any meal. It combines the essence of the Mediterranean lifestyle with the practicality of Western comfort food, making it perfect for health-conscious eaters, flavor-seekers, and home cooks looking for something a little different. With so many options for customization, storage, and pairing, it’s a recipe worth revisiting again and again.