Quiche, with its flaky crust and savory custard filling, is a wonderfully versatile dish perfect for lunch. But what pairs best with it to create a truly satisfying and balanced meal? The answer depends on the type of quiche and your personal preferences, but we've got some delicious ideas to inspire your next lunch spread.
Sides that Complement Any Quiche
These options work well regardless of the quiche's filling, offering a balance of textures and flavors:
Salads:
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the quiche. Consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
- Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil in a Caprese salad complement the savory flavors of the quiche beautifully.
- Arugula Salad with Pears and Walnuts: The peppery arugula, sweet pears, and crunchy walnuts create a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
Breads:
- Crustless Bread: If your quiche has a particularly buttery or rich crust, a light, crustless bread or a simple baguette offers a less carb-heavy accompaniment.
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough complements many quiche fillings.
Sides Based on Quiche Filling
The best side dishes will often enhance the specific flavors of your quiche filling. Here are some ideas based on popular quiche varieties:
For Vegetable Quiches:
- Roasted Vegetables: If your quiche features roasted vegetables, consider serving a side of roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for a cohesive and flavorful meal. This complements the earthiness of the quiche.
- Fruit Salad: The sweetness of a fruit salad, especially with berries or citrus fruits, can beautifully balance the earthiness of a vegetable quiche.
For Lorraine Quiche (Bacon and Cheese):
- Asparagus: The delicate asparagus spears offer a nice counterpoint to the richness of the bacon and cheese.
- Potato Salad: A light and creamy potato salad adds a comforting element to the meal, balancing the savory quiche.
For Seafood Quiches:
- Lemon wedges: The bright acidity of lemon cuts through the richness of the seafood and cream.
- Simple Green Salad with a light vinaigrette: This keeps the focus on the delicate seafood flavors.
Drinks to Pair with Your Quiche Lunch:
The right drink can elevate your quiche lunch experience. Consider these options:
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with vegetable and seafood quiches.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing and light choice that won't overpower the flavors of the quiche.
- Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea provides a refreshing contrast.
Planning Your Quiche Lunch: A Quick Guide
To ensure a truly satisfying and well-balanced quiche lunch, consider these factors:
- Variety of Textures: Aim for a mix of textures—crispy, creamy, soft—to avoid a monotonous meal.
- Flavor Balance: Counterpoint rich flavors with lighter, refreshing options.
- Nutritional Balance: Include a side salad or vegetables to ensure you're getting a good balance of nutrients.
By thoughtfully choosing your side dishes and drinks, you can transform a simple quiche into a memorable and delicious lunch. Enjoy!
