Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Hash brown-Crusted Mediterranean Quiche



1, 20 ounce (1 lb. 4 oz.) bag shredded hash brown potatoes
1 T. butter
1 cup chopped onion
1 large clove garlic, minced
1 small zucchini, quartered, thinly sliced (2 c.)
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 c. chopped drained oil-packed marinated artichoke hearts 
4 large eggs
1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese,
(2 oz.)
1/2 t. dried basil
1/2 t. dried oregano
2 cups marinara sauce, warmed (optional)
  1. Heat the oven to 425 degrees.
  2. Press the potatoes evenly on the bottom and sides of a greased 10" quiche dish or pie plate.  It helps to pat down with the flat end of a drinking glass.
  3. Coat lightly with cooking spray and bake until the potatoes are lightly brown and crisp about 30 minutes.
  4. Reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees.
  5. Heat the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot.
  6. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until tender, 3 to 4 minutes.
  7. Add zucchini, bell pepper and artichokes and sauté until tender-crisp.  Cool slightly.
  8. Beat the eggs, milk, cheese, basil and oregano in a large bowl until blended.
  9. Add zucchini mixture and mix well.
  10. Pour in to the potato crust.
  11. Bake in center of a 374 degree oven until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes.
  12. Let stand 5 minutes.  Cut unto wedges; serve with warm marinara sauce if desired.