Spring vegetable quiche

Step 1

Add the flour and salt to a food processor. Pulse to combine. Add the butter and pulse 6–8 times until broken down into pea-sized pieces. Add the water and pulse 8–10 times, until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and shape into a disc. Tightly wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a circle about ⅛ inch thick. Roll the dough onto the rolling pin and gently transfer to an 8-inch pie dish. Press the dough flush against the bottom and sides of the dish. Trim any excess dough around the edges. Fold the edges of dough back underneath itself, then crimp using the index finger knuckle on one hand and the thumb and index finger on the other hand.

Step 4

Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the crust is beginning to brown around the edges. Remove the crust from the oven and carefully lift out the parchment paper and baking beans.

Step 5

Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and return to the oven for another 3–5 minutes, until the bottom is beginning to brown. Remove from the oven and set on a rack to cool while you make the filling.

Step 6

Fill a large, high-walled skillet with water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, season the water generously with salt. Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl and set nearby.

Step 7

Blanch the asparagus in the simmering water for 30–60 seconds, until bright green and tender. Transfer to the ice bath to cool for 1–2 minutes, then drain and let dry on a paper towel or kitchen towel-lined baking sheet.

Step 8

Reserve 8–10 spears of asparagus. Cut the rest crosswise into 1-inch pieces.

Step 9

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, eggs, heavy cream, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg. Add the asparagus pieces and 2 tablespoons of chives and whisk to incorporate.

Step 10

Spread 3 ounces of the goat cheese across the bottom of the crust.

Step 11

Pour the filling into the crust. Arrange the reserved asparagus spears on top. Sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of chives and dot with the remaining ounce of goat cheese.

Step 12

Bake the quiche for 28–35 minutes, until the center is set, but still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.

Step 13

Transfer the quiche to a wire rack to cool for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 14

Enjoy!