Pumpkin and bacon pie - Happy birthday, Ina!

Pumpkin and Bacon Tart: A Surprising Delicacy for Special Days

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Welcome to the world of flavors! Today we will prepare a pumpkin and bacon tart, a surprising combination that blends the sweet flavor of pumpkin with the salty and smoky taste of bacon. This recipe is not just a culinary delight but also an ideal gift for any occasion. And to make this day even more special, we dedicate it to a dear person - Ina.

The history of this tart dates back to times when communities gathered to celebrate the harvest. Over the years, the tart has evolved, but its essence remains: the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. Now, let’s get started!

Necessary Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 200 g cottage cheese (or any fresh cheese you prefer)
- 100 g butter, at room temperature
- 300-400 g flour (suggestion: use whole wheat flour for a more intense flavor)
- salt, to taste

*For the filling:*
- 1 larger zucchini, sliced thinly
- 150 g bacon slices (choose a smoked variant for a richer taste)
- 1 slice of cheese (you can also use feta cheese for a salty note)
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- salt and pepper, to taste
- a handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Step by Step to Success

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the butter until you achieve a smooth paste. This combination will give the tart a creamy texture and a delicious taste.

2. Adding the flour: Add the flour and salt, mixing until you get a non-sticky and firm dough. If it’s too soft, add a little more flour. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for an hour.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Drain the sliced zucchini in hot oil, frying it on both sides until golden. Place the zucchini slices on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

4. Preparing the bacon: Fry the bacon in the same pan until crispy, then remove it to a paper towel. This step will intensify the flavor and add a delicious crunch to the tart.

5. Rolling out the dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out into a round sheet, slightly larger than the size of the tart pan. Use extra flour to prevent sticking.

6. Assembling the tart: Grease the tart pan with butter, place the dough, and poke it with a fork to prevent puffing during baking. Arrange the zucchini slices, followed by the crispy bacon and bell pepper slices.

7. Preparing the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the sour cream, add salt, pepper, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Pour the mixture over the filling, ensuring all ingredients are evenly covered.

8. Adding the cheese: Cut the cheese into cubes and sprinkle over the filling, without any specific order - this will add a rustic and appetizing look.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the tart inside. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the tart is golden and the filling is well cooked.

10. Serving: After baking, let the tart cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served as an appetizer or main dish.

Serving Suggestions: This tart pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a light lemon dressing. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a fresh citrus cocktail will enhance the flavors of the dish.

Tips and Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as onions or spinach, or you can replace the bacon with prosciutto or even a vegetarian option. Also, adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin can bring an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Nutritional Information: This tart is a good source of protein and vitamins, thanks to the cheese, eggs, and vegetables. Approximately 300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or mozzarella.
- How can I make the dough healthier? You can use whole wheat or almond flour for a more nutritious option.
- Can the tart be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking. Make sure to unroll and bake it directly from the freezer, extending the baking time.

I hope this recipe has been to your liking and that you will have many wonderful moments with your loved ones, savoring every bite of this pumpkin and bacon tart! Happy birthday, Ina!