Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it’s simple to prepare yet feels luxurious and celebratory. The flavors are balanced beautifully—the freshness of spinach and beans contrasts with the richness of eggs, cream, and cheddar, while tarragon adds a gentle herbal note that elevates the entire dish. It’s ideal for brunches, picnics, or afternoon gatherings, and it tastes just as good warm as it does at room temperature. Every bite feels like a royal treat.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 sheet shortcrust pastry (homemade or store-bought)
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup double cream
4 large eggs
1/2 cup mature cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
1/2 cup cooked broad beans (or fava beans)
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon butter (for greasing)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch tart tin with butter.

2. I roll out the shortcrust pastry and line the tin, pressing it gently into the edges. Then I prick the base with a fork and chill it for about 10 minutes.

3. I line the pastry with parchment paper, fill it with baking beans, and blind bake for 15 minutes. After that, I remove the paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

4. In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, double cream, tarragon, salt, and pepper until smooth.

5. I spread the chopped spinach and cooked broad beans evenly across the pastry shell, then sprinkle the grated cheddar on top.

6. I pour the egg mixture over the filling and gently shake the tin to distribute it evenly.

7. I bake for 25–30 minutes until the quiche is golden on top and just set in the center.

8. Once baked, I let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to ensure clean edges.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, for a total time of around 45 minutes.

Variations

When I want a twist, I add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. I sometimes swap the cheddar for Gruyère or feta for a different flavor profile. For a spring version, I use peas or leeks instead of broad beans. To make it vegetarian-friendly for guests, I skip any meat additions, or for a heartier meal, I include bits of smoked salmon . Tarragon can be replaced with parsley or chives if I prefer a milder herbal touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover quiche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through. I avoid microwaving to keep the crust crisp. The quiche can also be frozen for up to 2 months; I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven before serving.

FAQs

Can I use puff pastry instead of shortcrust?

Yes, I can use puff pastry for a flakier crust, though it will rise slightly higher during baking.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

I blind bake the pastry before adding the filling and make sure the spinach is thoroughly drained.

Can I make this quiche ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often bake it the day before and serve it cold or at room temperature.

What type of cheese works best?

I prefer mature cheddar for its sharp flavor, but Gruyère or a mild Swiss cheese also works beautifully.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works perfectly as long as I thaw and squeeze out all excess water.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I use plant-based milk, cream, and cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.

What does tarragon taste like?

Tarragon has a subtle anise-like flavor that adds brightness and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.

How do I know when the quiche is done?

It’s ready when the center is set but still slightly wobbly; it will firm up as it cools.

What should I serve with coronation quiche?

I love serving it with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple tomato soup.

Conclusion

I find coronation quiche to be the perfect mix of sophistication and comfort. The buttery crust, creamy filling, and fresh herbs make every bite indulgent yet balanced. Whether I’m serving it at a brunch, picnic, or special celebration, it never fails to impress. It’s a timeless dish that captures the charm of British cuisine with a modern, flavorful touch—and one I’ll keep making long after the royal festivities are over.