Rustic tart with fragrant semolina crust

Rustic tart with flavored semolina crust: a savory and colorful recipe that will transform a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. This tart combines the crunchy texture of the crust with the delicate flavors of vegetables, offering not only a refined taste but also an attractive appearance. Ideal for family lunches or dinners with friends, this easy-to-make recipe will surely become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 150 g white flour
- 150 g semolina
- 100 g melted butter
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of Herbes de Provence
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

For the filling:
- 3 eggs
- 150 g sour cream
- 100 g grated cheese
- 4 fresh mushrooms, sliced
- A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- A few cauliflower florets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing

A Brief History of the Recipe

Rustic tart is a traditional dish that combines simple ingredients with natural flavors, often inspired by seasonal recipes. Its origins are lost in history, being a dish that stems from the desire to make the most of available resources. Today, the rustic tart is a symbol of culinary comfort, bringing family together around the table.

Step by Step: Your Guide to Achieving a Perfect Tart

1. Preparing the flavored crust
- In a large bowl, mix the white flour with the semolina. This combination will give the crust a crunchy and crumbly texture.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the melted butter, eggs, salt, Herbes de Provence, and cumin seeds.
- Use a spatula or your hands to knead the dough until it becomes smooth. It is important not to knead too much to avoid a dense dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step will help solidify the butter and make the crust easier to roll out.

2. Preparing the filling
- In a pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and let them boil for 5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- In a pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the mushroom slices until they are lightly browned. Remove them to a plate and, in the same pan, sauté the cauliflower florets until they get a slight golden color. This step will intensify the flavors of the vegetables.

3. Assembling the tart
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Roll it out into a thin layer of about 0.5 cm, according to the shape of the tart pan.
- Transfer the dough to the pan and prick it all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Arrange the cauliflower florets, bell pepper slices, and sautéed mushrooms evenly over the surface of the crust.

4. Preparing the egg mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs with the sour cream and grated cheese. Add salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the pan and finish with the halved cherry tomatoes. These will add a splash of color and a fresh taste to the dish.

5. Baking the tart
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tart in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.
- After baking, allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. This will allow the flavors to settle and make the tart easier to cut.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh vegetables will make the tart tastier and more appealing. Buy firm and fragrant cherry tomatoes.
- Vary the herbs: If you don't have Herbes de Provence, you can use a combination of oregano, basil, and tarragon for a different flavor.
- Add protein: If you want to enrich the tart, you can add cooked chicken breast cubes or feta cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Rustic tart lends itself to a variety of vegetables. You can try zucchini, broccoli, or carrots for a personal twist.

2. How can I store the tart?
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispness.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
- No, but you can adapt the recipe using flax eggs and plant-based sour cream for a vegan dish.

Serving

The rustic tart with semolina crust is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a tomato salsa for a contrast of flavors. Additionally, a glass of white wine or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This tart is rich in vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins and minerals. Semolina contains a considerable amount of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Eggs and cheese provide essential proteins, making this tart a nutritious choice.

Personal Note

I discovered this recipe on a rainy day when I craved comfort food. After a few attempts, I managed to achieve the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Now, it's a dish I often cook, being ideal for gathering the family around the table. Perhaps you will also discover a personal story around this rustic tart, and each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Enjoy your meal!