Rustic Tart

Rustic cheese and sausage tart - a savory and colorful recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The history of this rustic tart spans many generations, being a versatile and beloved dish in kitchens around the world. This cheese and sausage tart is perfect for a quick dinner but can also be served as an appetizer at a festive meal. It is an excellent choice for using leftover ingredients from the fridge and creating something truly special.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 500 g flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder (or yeast, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lard
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Milk, as needed

*For the filling:*
- 1 can Făgăraș cheese (or any preferred cheese)
- 1 can fluffy cheese with herbs
- 50 g black olives, sliced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1 egg
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 piece spicy sausage, sliced
- 3-4 cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 50 g grated cheese for topping

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the salt and baking powder and mix well. This step helps to homogenize the ingredients and achieve a uniform dough. Add the lard and, using your fingers, knead until you get a sandy texture.

2. Adding wet ingredients: Beat the egg in a small bowl and add it to the flour mixture. Gradually incorporate the milk until you obtain a smooth, elastic dough that can be easily rolled out. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Let it rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes.

3. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, mix the two types of cheese, the beaten egg, olives, bell pepper, and parsley. Make sure all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a richer filling, you can add mushrooms or grated pumpkin.

4. Assembling the tart: Grease a tart pan with a little oil to prevent sticking. Roll out the dough into a round shape, slightly larger than the pan, and carefully place it in the pan, leaving the edges to slightly overlap. Fill the base with the cheese mixture, then arrange the sausage slices and cherry tomatoes on top. Gather the edges of the dough over the filling, crimping them slightly for a rustic look.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the dough is golden and crispy. At the end, you can grate cheese over the edges and let the tart bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.

6. Serving: After removing the tart from the oven, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt and dill sauce, which will add a refreshing note.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese or other vegetables. For example, adding spinach or zucchini could offer a different taste and texture.
- Recommended drinks: The tart pairs excellently with a dry white wine or a refreshing blonde beer.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of tart contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Cheese is a good source of calcium, and olives provide healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the final result will vary.
- What should I do if the dough sticks? Add a little flour to the work surface and knead until you achieve the desired consistency.
- How can I store the tart? The tart keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days.

This rustic cheese and sausage tart is not only a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of comfort into your life. Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent with loved ones! Bon appétit!