Morel Mushroom and Asparagus Quiche

Morel Mushroom and Asparagus Quiche

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
• 1 pre-made 9-inch deep-dish pie crust (or homemade)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the morel mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the diced onion and asparagus to the skillet, and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the asparagus is slightly tender.

4. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and thyme, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mushroom and asparagus mixture cool slightly.

6. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream or half-and-half.

7. Spread half of the shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Spoon the cooled mushroom and asparagus mixture over the cheese, spreading it out evenly.

8. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the mushroom and asparagus mixture in the pie crust. Top with the remaining cheese.

9. Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

10. Remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives and serve warm.

This Morel Mushroom and Asparagus Quiche is perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine for a delicious and satisfying meal.