Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups
Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes
I absolutely love making these Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups for brunches or light dinners. Each bite is packed with flavor, and they come together so easily! The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy egg custard creates a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone adores. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – you can use whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand. I find that these quiche cups are perfect for meal prep too, as they reheat beautifully, making them ideal for busy mornings.
When I first experimented with these Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups, I was skeptical about how well they would hold together. To my delight, they turned out perfectly! I decided to use a muffin tin, which not only simplifies portion control but also allows for a beautiful presentation. The key to their rich flavor lies in using fresh herbs alongside the vegetables, enhancing the overall taste profile.
One tip I’ve found helpful is to pre-cook the vegetables slightly before adding them to the egg mixture. This not only keeps the quiches from becoming watery but also intensifies their flavors. I’ve incorporated bell peppers, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, but feel free to swap in your favorites!
Why You'll Love These Quiche Cups
- Individual servings that are perfect for gatherings or meal prep
- Endless combination of fresh vegetables to suit your taste
- A delightful crispy crust with a creamy filling
Perfecting the Crust
For these Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups, the crust plays a pivotal role in balancing the filling's creaminess with a delightful crunch. If you choose to use store-bought pie crusts, look for those labeled as 'homestyle' for a thicker, butterier texture that crisps up beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, making your own crust allows you to incorporate herbs or even cheese directly into the dough, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Make sure to press the crust firmly into the muffin tin to prevent it from shrinking as it bakes. If you're facing issues with crumble, adding a bit of cold water while mixing your ingredients can help bind the dough together. Pre-baking the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling can also prevent sogginess, ensuring a flaky texture.
Vegetable Variations
The beauty of these quiche cups is their adaptability to whatever vegetables are in season or available in your fridge. For a twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted butternut squash. Each of these additions brings unique flavors and textures to the dish. Just be mindful that denser vegetables may require a longer sauté time to soften before mixing with the egg custard.
If you're looking for a creamy texture without dairy, you can substitute the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. This will create a lighter filling while still maintaining a deliciously savory taste. Adding a spoonful of nutritional yeast can also enhance the umami flavor without the need for cheese.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
These quiche cups are not only ideal for brunch but also fantastic for meal prep! After they’ve cooled appropriately, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you're looking to reheat them, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warmed throughout.
To serve, I love pairing these quiche cups with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette for a satisfying yet refreshing meal. If you have guests, consider serving them on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh herbs. Not only does it look inviting, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy quiche.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups:
Ingredients
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (thyme or oregano)
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (or puff pastry)
Ensure you have everything measured and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
Prepare the Vegetable Filling
Sauté your chosen vegetables in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they are slightly softened. Set aside.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cheese, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Stir in the sautéed vegetables.
Prepare the Crust
Roll out the pie crust and cut it into circles that fit your muffin tin. Press the circles into the greased muffin slots.
Fill and Bake
Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into each pie crust, filling them about 3/4 full. Bake for 25 minutes, or until they are set and golden on top.
Cool and Serve
Allow the quiche cups to cool for a few minutes in the tin before carefully removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups!
Pro Tips
- These quiche cups can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Key Techniques
When mixing the egg and milk base, vigorously whisking ensures that the mixture is well incorporated and helps achieve a fluffy texture. A good tip is to whisk until the mixture is lightly frothy, which introduces air for a lighter custard. Be cautious not to over-mix once you add the sautéed vegetables, as gently folding them in will help retain their shape and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Using a muffin tin creates perfectly portioned servings, but for larger gatherings, you could also opt for a larger tart pan. Just adjust the baking time to about 35-40 minutes, keeping an eye on the tops until they're golden brown and set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out clean for a sign that it's done.
Ingredient Insights
Eggs are the star of this dish; they provide not just protein but also structure. The freshness of the eggs can significantly influence the taste—free-range or organic eggs yield a richer flavor compared to conventional. If looking to increase the nutritional value, consider adding in a tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent, which complements the eggs nicely.
The choice of cheese can define the flavor of your quiche. Cheddar offers a sharp contrast, while mozzarella contributes a mellow creaminess. If you're aiming for a little tang, crumbled feta or goat cheese can elevate the dish further. If you're watching your fat intake, reduce the amount of cheese by half and add a bit of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Flavor Enhancements
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a hint of garlic, sautéed with the vegetables. A teaspoon of minced garlic will infuse the filling with warmth and aroma. Alternatively, if you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the vegetable mixture can offer a pleasant kick without overwhelming the dish.
Serving these quiche cups with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives can enhance their presentation and provide a creamy contrast. Additionally, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness, balancing the richness of the quiche, and making it visually appealing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these quiche cups?
Yes! They freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
→ What vegetables work best?
You can use almost any vegetable! Broccoli, zucchini, and asparagus are also great options.
→ Can I substitute the cheese?
Absolutely! Any cheese you prefer will work, like feta for a tangy flavor or Swiss for a milder taste.
→ How do I make them gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless version by greasing the muffin tin well.
Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups
I absolutely love making these Savory Vegetable Quiche Cups for brunches or light dinners. Each bite is packed with flavor, and they come together so easily! The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy egg custard creates a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone adores. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – you can use whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand. I find that these quiche cups are perfect for meal prep too, as they reheat beautifully, making them ideal for busy mornings.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (thyme or oregano)
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (or puff pastry)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
Sauté your chosen vegetables in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until they are slightly softened. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cheese, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Stir in the sautéed vegetables.
Roll out the pie crust and cut it into circles that fit your muffin tin. Press the circles into the greased muffin slots.
Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into each pie crust, filling them about 3/4 full. Bake for 25 minutes, or until they are set and golden on top.
Allow the quiche cups to cool for a few minutes in the tin before carefully removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- These quiche cups can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 7g