Ham and Swiss Quiche

Instructions

1. Prepare the pie crust
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9-inch pie dish with the unbaked crust. Prick the bottom with a fork several times, then line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Blind bake for 10 minutes, remove weights and parchment, and bake for 5 more minutes until just barely golden. Remove and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the filling ingredients
   While crust is baking, combine diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, and diced onion in a bowl. Toss to combine evenly. In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, pepper, chives, thyme, and cayenne if using, until well combined.
3. Assemble the quiche
   Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Spread the ham, cheese, and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the partially baked crust. Pour the egg mixture slowly over the filling, allowing it to settle evenly throughout.
4. Bake the quiche
   Place the quiche on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and barely jiggles when gently shaken. The top should be golden brown. If crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.
5. Rest and serve
   Remove quiche from oven and let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the custard to fully set. Garnish with additional chopped chives if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature with a simple green salad on the side.