Holiday Mini Quiche

I'm not sure how this particular combination of ingredients came about, but it really works and is always a hit.  I always seem to make these around the holidays, and because they are great to make ahead and freeze, they can be kept on hand for busy nights, unexpected company, or potlucks.

If you have time to make your own dough, obviously that would be better, but since the purpose of these is to make them as a time-saver, I use frozen ready-made tart shells.

I will be taking a break for the holidays, so I will see you again in the new year.

Ingredients:

24 tart shells
1 head broccoli, chopped finely
3 green onions, sliced finely
6 large shrimp, diced
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
8 eggs
1/4 cup cream or milk
salt, pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Separate the tart shells and put them on a baking sheet to thaw while you prepare the other ingredients.

3. Chop the broccoli, onions, shrimp, and dill.  Shred the cheese.  In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, salt, pepper, and cream.

4. Divide the broccoli, green onions, shrimp, and dill between the tart shells.

5. Pour the egg mixture into the shells being careful not to over fill.

6. Top each tart with a bit of shredded cheese.

7. Bake in the oven for about 40 minutes until golden brown.

8. Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.  These are great warm or even at room temperature.  If they are frozen, they can be reheated in the oven or microwave.  Enjoy!

Shopping Tips:

1. I use Tenderflake tart shells because they bake the best.

2. I also use raw shrimp as opposed to cooked.  Do not use canned.  If you can only find medium-sized shrimp, use 10 instead of 6.

Options:

1. This can also be made with asparagus instead of broccoli.  You can add the asparagus as well as the broccoli if you want.

2. Serve a few of these with a side salad for a quick meal or on their own for a satisfying snack.

Whether you are making these for your family or for guests, they are sure to become a tradition in your house as they have become in mine.