Tarts for Holidays

Holiday Tarts: A Versatile and Delicious Recipe

Holidays are the perfect moments to gather family around the table, and nothing compares to the aroma and taste of a freshly baked tart. This homemade tart recipe brings together sweetness and savoriness, making it ideal for both appetizers and desserts. With a delicate, flavorful crust and savory fillings, these tarts will surely become the stars of the New Year's Eve table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 26 tarts

The Story Behind the Tart

The origins of the tart are lost in the mists of time, but it is known that they have evolved over the centuries, being used as both sweet and savory dishes. Today, tarts are appreciated worldwide for their versatility and ability to combine different ingredients in unique ways. These homemade tarts are a modern reinterpretation of an old tradition, bringing together the essential ingredients of a festive meal.

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 150 g Rama Maestro (70% fat)
- 1 cup warm milk (150 ml)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 egg
- Flour as needed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:
- 150 g grated cheese (preferably cottage cheese or telemea)
- 1 teaspoon sour cream
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers) for decoration

Step by step: Preparing the Tart

1. Preparing the crust
In a large bowl, cream the Rama Maestro with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy. Add the baking powder, salt, egg, and warm milk, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour. It is important to use flour as needed until you obtain a soft but manageable dough.

2. Shaping the form
On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Use a large glass to cut circles from the dough. These circles will form the base of the tart. Shape them with your fingers and carefully place them in muffin tins.

3. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the filled molds in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the crust turns golden and crispy. Be careful, as they bake quickly!

4. Preparing the filling
While the tarts are baking, prepare the filling. Mix the grated cheese with the sour cream, finely chopped red onion, and salt to taste. You can also add herbs like dill or parsley for an even more intense flavor.

5. Filling the tart
After the tarts have cooled, fill each tart with the cheese mixture. You can decorate with finely chopped vegetables (cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers) for a colorful and appetizing look.

6. Finalizing
If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can use the leftover cheese to fill small vegetable spheres, such as cherry tomatoes, decorated with olives for a mushroom-like appearance. These will be part of an appetizer platter that will surely impress.

Serving Suggestions

These tarts can be served warm or cold, alongside a glass of white wine or freshly squeezed fruit juice. For an extra flavor boost, you can accompany the appetizers with yogurt or flavored mayonnaise sauces. They also pair perfectly with other appetizers like platters of cold cuts or fine cheeses.

Useful Tips

- Flour: Make sure to use quality flour to achieve a better dough. Type 550 flour is ideal for tarts.
- Ingredient temperature: It is essential that the margarine is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the mixture.
- Variations: You can experiment with different fillings, such as grilled vegetables or mushrooms, to create various savory tarts. Also, for a sweet filling, you can use berry jams or melted chocolate for a decadent dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use feta or mozzarella cheese for the savory filling, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store the tarts?
These tarts can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, sealed in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze the tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the tarts before filling them. Bake them and let them cool completely before freezing. When you want to consume them, thaw and fill them with the desired filling.

Nutritional Benefits

These tarts are a good source of protein due to the cheese, and the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins for a balanced diet. By using fresh and quality ingredients, you can turn these tarts into a healthy option for holiday meals.

Conclusion

This holiday tart recipe not only combines diverse flavors but also offers the possibility to play with ingredients to create unique dishes. Make sure to gather your family around the table and share the joy of cooking. Enjoy your meal!