Appetizer Quiche Squares

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Appetizer Quiche Squares

Appetizer quiche squares are a delightful and versatile dish often served as an appetizer or finger food at parties, brunches, or gatherings. They are a variation of the classic quiche, a savory pie originating from France.

History:
Quiche itself has its roots in the medieval German kingdom of Lothringen, which later became the French region of Lorraine. The word “quiche” is derived from the German word “kuchen,” meaning cake. Originally, quiche was an open-faced tart with a filling made of eggs and cream. It became popular in France in the 19th century and eventually gained worldwide popularity.

Components:

• Pie Crust: You can use store-bought pie crust or make your own from scratch.
• Eggs: The base of the quiche filling.
• Cream: Typically heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy texture.
• Cheese: Common choices include Gruyère, Swiss, cheddar, or any cheese of your preference.
• Filling: This can vary widely and may include ingredients like bacon, ham, spinach, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley add flavor.
• Optional Toppings: You can add a sprinkle of grated cheese, herbs, or sliced tomatoes on top.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Crust: Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a greased square or rectangular baking dish.

3. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings. Stir in your chosen fillings, such as cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.

4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the bottom of the pie crust.

5. Pour Filling: Pour the egg and filling mixture over the cheese in the crust.

6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the quiche is set and lightly browned on top.

7. Cool and Cut: Allow the quiche to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or rectangles.

8. Serve: Serve the appetizer quiche squares warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 15-20 minutes
• Baking: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling: 10-15 minutes

In total, you can expect to spend approximately 50-65 minutes from start to finish. These appetizer quiche squares are not only delicious but also customizable to your taste, making them a fantastic addition to any occasion. Enjoy! 😋🍴👌

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Appetizer Quiche Squares:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):

• Calories: 150-200 kcal
• Protein: 6-8 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
• Sodium: 200-300 mg
• Vitamins and Minerals: Quiche may provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, calcium, and iron, depending on the ingredients used.

Health Information:

1. Protein Source: Quiche squares can be a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

2. Calcium: Depending on the cheese used, quiche can also provide calcium for strong bones and teeth.

3. Moderation: While quiche can be a tasty and nutritious dish, it’s essential to consume it in moderation due to its calorie and fat content, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

4. Ingredient Choices: The healthiness of quiche depends on the ingredients you use. Consider incorporating vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrients and fiber.

5. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes, as quiche squares can be quite calorie-dense. One or two squares can make for a satisfying appetizer.

6. Customization: You can customize your quiche squares to fit your dietary preferences. For a lighter option, use low-fat cheese or substitute some of the cream with milk.

7. Balanced Meal: If you’re serving quiche as a meal, consider pairing it with a side salad or fresh fruit to add more fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your overall meal.

Remember that specific nutritional values can vary depending on the ingredients you use, so it’s a good practice to check labels and use online nutritional calculators for precise values based on your recipe.