A vegetarian quiche is a savoury tart made with shortcrust pastry and a creamy egg filling combined with a variety of vegetables. Mary Berry’s version is both hearty and elegant — balancing flaky pastry, creamy texture, and vibrant vegetables such as spinach, peppers, and tomatoes.
200g plain flour
100g cold unsalted butter, diced
2–3 tbsp cold water
Pinch of salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 red onion, finely sliced
1 red pepper, diced
100g baby spinach
150g cherry tomatoes, halved
3 large eggs
200ml double cream (or crème fraîche)
100ml milk
100g grated mature cheddar or Gruyère cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme or fresh herbs of choice
In a bowl, rub the butter into the flour and salt using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add cold water gradually and mix until a soft dough forms. Wrap in cling film and chill for 20 minutes.
Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and use it to line the tart tin. Trim the edges neatly and prick the base with a fork. Chill again for 10 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Line the pastry case with baking paper, fill with baking beans, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and paper, then bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion and red pepper for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and milk. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme or fresh herbs.
Spread the cooked vegetables evenly over the base of the pastry case. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and grated cheese on top, then pour in the egg mixture.
Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (160°C fan) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and set in the centre.
Allow the quiche to cool slightly before removing it from the tin. Serve warm or at room temperature with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.