Zucchini Tart

Delicious Zucchini and Cheese Tart - a simple and refined recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

The zucchini tart is a versatile and flavorful recipe that combines simple ingredients into an elegant preparation, perfect for any occasion. This recipe can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for a light lunch or a special dinner. Zucchini, rich in nutrients and low in calories, are the stars of this tart, bringing a delicate taste and wonderful texture.

The history of this recipe dates back to ancient times, but it is known that tarts have been made since the earliest days, in various forms and with different fillings. Over the years, the zucchini tart has become popular due to its simplicity and versatility, easily adaptable according to culinary preferences.

The ingredients needed for this tart are accessible and can be easily found in any supermarket. Here’s what you need to prepare:

Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry (approx. 250 g)
- 1 small onion
- 4 medium-sized zucchinis
- 150 g cottage cheese
- 4 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Olive oil
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing the tart)

The steps to prepare this delicious tart are as follows:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Heat a pan and add a little olive oil. Chop the onion finely and add it to the pan. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and slightly browned. This step will add a pleasant aroma and depth of flavor to the tart.

2. Meanwhile, wash the zucchinis under cold running water, then cut them into cubes. Bring back the onion from the pan and add the zucchinis. Sauté the mixture for a few minutes until the zucchinis become slightly soft. Turn off the heat and transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool. Keep half a zucchini for decoration, which will add a rustic and attractive look to the tart.

3. In another bowl, beat the 4 eggs together with the cottage cheese. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This mixture will coat the zucchinis and provide a creamy texture to the tart.

4. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the puff pastry in a round baking dish with a diameter of 24 cm, ensuring that the pastry covers the edges of the dish. You can use parchment paper to prevent the tart from sticking to the dish.

5. Pour the zucchini and egg mixture over the puff pastry. Cut the reserved half zucchini into thin slices and arrange them nicely on top of the mixture for an attractive appearance. This step not only enhances the presentation but also adds extra flavor.

6. To achieve a golden and shiny crust, brush the tart with a beaten egg yolk. This will give a special hue to the tart during baking.

7. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is firm.

8. Once the tart is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before taking it out of the dish. This step is important to ensure the stability of the slice when serving.

The zucchini tart is delicious both warm and cold, making it an excellent choice for picnics, brunches, or light dinners. It can be served alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, adding a refreshing note.

The nutritional benefits of zucchinis are remarkable. They are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, helping to maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, making this tart a nutritious and filling meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchinis? Yes, you can add spinach, mushrooms, or peppers to vary the flavors.
- Can I use gluten-free tart dough? Yes, there are gluten-free dough options available in specialty stores.
- How can I store the tart after preparation? The tart can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Experiment with various cheese combinations, adding feta or cheddar for a different taste. This zucchini tart will surely become a family and friends' favorite recipe, bringing a touch of joy and flavor to every meal. Enjoy your meal!