Appetizer tart with zucchini and leek

Zucchini and leek tart

Sometimes, in the middle of a busy day, we get home and realize we have nothing prepared for dinner. In such moments, a quick and delicious recipe like the zucchini and leek tart becomes a lifesaver. This tart is not only a perfect appetizer but also an excellent option for office lunches. It is easy to prepare, and the ingredients are often already in the pantry or refrigerator. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 2 fresh eggs
- 200 g flour
- 1 small zucchini (about 200 g)
- 1/3 of a leek (about 100 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Dried or fresh oregano

Recipe History

The zucchini and leek tart is a recipe that perfectly fits into the "comfort food" category. Its origins are lost in time, but it is clear that it is inspired by culinary traditions of using seasonal vegetables that are both healthy and tasty. This tart has become popular due to its versatility – it can be served hot or cold, as an appetizer or main dish, and can be adapted with various ingredients according to personal preferences.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. It is essential to have everything at hand to make the cooking process as quick and efficient as possible. Wash the zucchini under cold running water and cut it into cubes. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for added nutrients. Set the zucchini aside.

Slice the leek thinly, making sure to remove the green part, which can be more fibrous.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt using a mixer or whisk. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light in color and frothy. Gradually add the milk, oil, and sour cream, stirring continuously to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, baking soda, and pepper. This combination will ensure a fluffy texture for the tart. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and gently mix with a spatula until a homogeneous dough forms.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables

Now, it’s time to add the diced zucchini and leek to the dough mixture. Use the spatula to incorporate them evenly, ensuring that the vegetables are well distributed in the dough. This is an important step that will determine the final texture of the tart.

Step 4: Baking

Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. Grease a round baking pan of about 24 cm with butter and dust it with flour. Then, carefully pour the dough into the pan. Sprinkle finely chopped parsley leaves and oregano over the dough for added flavor.

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tart is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Serving

Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, you can transfer it to a serving platter. The tart can be served warm alongside a fresh salad or cold as an appetizer. It is delicious even the next day, making it perfect for an office lunch.

Useful Tips

1. Vegetable variation: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to create a personalized version of your tart.
2. Adding cheese: If you like cheese, add a few cubes of feta or mozzarella to the dough mixture for a richer taste.
3. Keeping freshness: The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap.
4. Suitable drinks: This tart pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing herbal tea.

Nutritional Benefits

Zucchini is a vegetable rich in water, which helps hydrate the body and offers low calorie content. It is an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and minerals such as potassium. Leek, on the other hand, is rich in fiber and antioxidants, thus contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can replace white flour with whole wheat or gluten-free flour for a healthier option.

2. How can I make the tart spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add a pinch of chili or red pepper flakes to the dough mixture.

3. Is it possible to freeze the tart?
Although the tart is best fresh, you can freeze it before baking. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap.

In conclusion, the zucchini and leek tart is an excellent choice for a quick dinner or an office lunch. With a little effort, you can create a tasty and healthy dish that will be appreciated by all your loved ones. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and let us know how it turned out! Enjoy your meal!