Tomato and mozzarella tart & muffins

Tart and Muffins with Tomatoes and Mozzarella

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will present to you a delicious recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of joy to your tables. It is about a tart with tomatoes, mozzarella, and cheese, as well as fluffy muffins, perfectly suited for any occasion. This recipe is ideal for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even for a gathering with friends. Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

- 2 ½ cups wheat flour
- 1 ½ cups natural yogurt (opt for a creamy one for better texture)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can also use tomato sauce, but paste will enhance the flavors)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 50 g cheese (cottage cheese or feta are excellent)
- 180 g mozzarella (divided into two: 90 g for the dough and 90 g for topping)
- Aromatic herbs (oregano, basil, or Italian mix)
- Salt, to taste

Brief History

The tomato and cheese tart has deep roots in culinary tradition, often associated with festive meals and special occasions. This type of tart is appreciated for its versatility, being served warm or cold. The combination of tomatoes with mozzarella cheese creates a delicious duo, full of freshness and flavor. Muffins, on the other hand, are a modern invention that has gained rapid popularity due to their portability and ease of preparation.

Step by step – Preparing the tart and muffins

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the yogurt and sour cream are at room temperature for even mixing. Weigh the cheese and mozzarella, cut the mozzarella into rectangles to make the inserts more attractive.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the dough.

3. Adding the wet ingredients
In another bowl, mix the yogurt with the sour cream and egg. Blend the ingredients well until you achieve a uniform mixture. Then, add the tomato paste and mix again. This paste will add not only moisture but also an intense flavor.

4. Combining the ingredients
To the wet ingredient mixture, gradually add the dry ingredient mixture. Gently mix with a spatula or whisk until you no longer see flour. Finally, add the cheese and aromatic herbs. The latter will bring an extra flavor, so don’t be stingy!

5. Preparing the baking pan
Grease a 20 cm tart pan or muffin tins with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking. If using muffin tins, you can also use paper liners to simplify cleanup.

6. Filling the molds
Pour the mixture into the mold, filling them up to ¾ full. This will allow them to rise beautifully during baking.

7. Adding mozzarella
For an attractive look and delicious flavor, insert the mozzarella rectangles into the dough, spreading them evenly. This will melt and make the dish even tastier.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the pan in the middle. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.

9. Finishing the dish
As soon as you take the tart out of the oven, add the remaining mozzarella on top. It will melt slightly and create a delicious crust. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

The tomato and mozzarella tart is served warm but is equally good cold. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a yogurt and dill sauce for a delicious contrast. If you want to impress, add a few fresh basil leaves for an elegant look and intense flavor.

Possible Variations

- Vegetable additions: You can add zucchini or red peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Meat tart: Add minced chicken or turkey for a heartier version.
- Muffins with other cheeses: Use goat cheese or cheddar for a more filling option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Certainly! Feta or cheddar cheese adds a unique flavor. You can experiment with aged cheeses for a more complex taste.

2. How do I keep the tart fresh?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking. Make sure it is well covered. If needed, thaw and bake directly from the freezer, extending the baking time by a few minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

This tart is an excellent source of protein due to the yogurt and cheese, while tomatoes provide important antioxidants and vitamins. Mozzarella has a low-fat content, making this dish a healthier choice without compromising on taste.

Calories

A serving of tart contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This makes it a decent option for a light meal, especially when combined with fresh vegetables.

I hope I have inspired you to try this delicious recipe for tart and muffins with tomatoes and mozzarella! It is simple, quick, and full of flavors. Don’t forget to share with your loved ones and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!