Salmon-Sweet Onion Quiche

Ingredients

• 1/2 (15-ounce) package refrigerated piecrust
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 medium Vidalia or other sweet onions, very thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
• 3/4 pound hot-smoked salmon, flaked
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 (10-ounce) container refrigerated Alfredo sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• Garnish: chopped fresh basil

Preparation

1. Place crust in an ungreased 9-inch pie plate; trim off excess pastry along edges. Fold edges under and crimp. Fill with pie weights, rice, or dried beans. Bake at 375° for 10 to 12 minutes or until just beginning to brown. Cool; remove weights.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions; cook, covered, 30 to 40 minutes or until golden. Remove from heat. Add salmon and cheese; blend well.
3. Combine eggs and next 3 ingredients in a small bowl with a wire whisk. Stir in salmon mixture. Pour mixture into prepared crust.
4. Bake at 350° for 40 to 45 minutes or until center is set. Let stand 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
5. Wine note: The sweetness of the onions and the power of salmon are the key components. Again I gravitate to Germany with something a bit more substantial. Try Josef Leitz Rudesheimer Magdalenenkreuz Riesling Kabinett 2002 ($18)--Steven Geddes