Appetizer tart with feta, arugula, and tomatoes

Appetizer tart with feta, arugula, and tomatoes - a simple and delicious recipe

The appetizer tart with feta, arugula, and tomatoes is a perfect choice for those moments when you want to impress your guests or simply indulge in a savory dish. This tart is quick to prepare, and its ingredients complement each other perfectly, offering a fresh and aromatic taste. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to personal preferences.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

For the shortcrust pastry:
- 220 g wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 100 g cold butter (cut into cubes)
- 60 ml cold water

For the filling:
- 1 block of feta cheese (about 150 g)
- A few cherry tomatoes (10-12 pieces)
- A few strips of canned tuna (optional)
- A handful of fresh arugula
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds (optional, for decoration)

Preparing the pastry:

1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl, add the salt and cold butter cubes. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.
2. Gradually add the cold water, gently kneading the dough. It is important not to over-knead, as this will make the tart elastic and not crumbly. The dough should be smooth and easy to handle.
3. Once you have obtained the dough, wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. This step will help firm up the butter, giving the tart a perfect texture.

Preparing the filling:

4. In the meantime, wash the cherry tomatoes under cold running water and dry them with a paper towel. Cut the feta cheese into strips or cubes, depending on your preference.
5. If you choose to use tuna, drain it well from the can.

Assembling the tart:

6. Preheat the oven to 160 °C. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts. Roll out the first part on a floured surface until you achieve a thin layer.
7. Place the dough in the baking pans (a rectangular dish and a round one, or a large mold if you prefer). Make sure the dough evenly covers the bottom and sides of the pan.
8. Add the strips of feta, whole cherry tomatoes, and strips of tuna (if using). Sprinkle fresh arugula on top for an extra touch of freshness.
9. Drizzle the tart with sesame oil, which will add a subtle and delicious flavor.

Baking the tart:

10. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough turns golden and crispy. Once it is nicely browned, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly.
11. Serve the tart warm, garnished with fresh arugula and a few sesame seeds for an appetizing look.

Useful tips:
- Make sure the butter is very cold to achieve a crumbly dough.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to vary the flavor.
- The tart can be served as an appetizer, but it is also delicious as a snack at lunch.
- If you want a vegetarian option, you can omit the tuna and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Nutritional benefits:
This tart is rich in protein due to the feta cheese and tuna, while arugula provides vitamins and antioxidants. Whole wheat flour can offer more fiber, thus contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour for the dough?
- Yes, you can experiment with almond flour or whole wheat flour, but make sure to adjust the amount of water according to the type of flour used.

2. How can I store the tart?
- The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed fresh!

3. Can I freeze the tart?
- It is recommended to freeze the dough before baking. After rolling it out, wrap it well and place it in the freezer. When you want to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator and bake according to the instructions.

Complementary recipes:
This appetizer tart with feta, arugula, and tomatoes pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. You can also serve the tart with a green salad with lemon dressing for a complete and balanced meal.

In conclusion, the appetizer tart with feta, arugula, and tomatoes is an excellent choice for any occasion. It is a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, that can be prepared quickly and does not require advanced cooking skills. Whether you make it for guests or to treat yourself on the weekend, this tart will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!