Zucchini Tart

Colorful Vegetable Tart

This vegetable tart is a burst of colors and flavors, perfect for making the most of the fresh seasonal vegetables available. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the crunchy texture of the crust with a creamy filling and delicious vegetables. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer, this tart is sure to be a hit.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients needed:

*For the crust:*
- 250 g of flour
- 160 g of cold butter, cubed
- 1 egg

*For the filling:*
- 60 g of potatoes (about 1 medium potato)
- 400 g of zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 5 tomatoes (variety of your choice, cherry tomatoes work great)
- 200 ml of milk
- 200 ml of cream
- 2 eggs
- A handful of fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 100 g of grated cheese (crumbly cheese is an excellent choice)

Preparing the tart:

1. Making the crust:
In a large bowl, mix the flour with the cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. Add the egg and knead the dough until it becomes smooth. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Practical tips: Choose high-quality butter for a richer flavor. Make sure the butter is very cold to achieve a flaky crust.

2. Chilling the dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps solidify the butter, making the dough easier to roll out and crispier.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes, slice them thinly, and boil them in salted water for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly soft. Drain and let them cool.

Peel the zucchinis and slice them thinly. Grate the tomatoes and slice them. Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor!

4. Assembling the tart:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 3 mm. Carefully transfer it to a buttered tart pan, making sure to press the dough up the sides of the pan.

Arrange the slices of potatoes, zucchini, and tomatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the tart.

5. Preparing the filling:
In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the cream and milk. Add fresh thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, mixing well until combined. Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the pan and sprinkle the grated cheese on top.

Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach, according to your preferences.

6. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the filling is set and the crust is golden.

7. Cooling and serving:
Once the tart is baked, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step will help stabilize the filling so that the slices hold together.

Serving suggestions:
This colorful tart is delicious both warm and at room temperature. It can be served alongside a fresh green salad with lemon dressing or as an appetizer at a party. A glass of dry white wine or a natural fruit juice will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:
This tart is packed with vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Zucchini is low in calories but rich in nutrients, while potatoes offer healthy carbohydrates. The cheese adds protein and calcium, making this tart a balanced choice.

Frequently asked questions:

- *Can I use other types of cheese?*
Absolutely! You can experiment with feta, mozzarella, or even goat cheese, each offering a unique flavor.

- *How can I store the tart for later consumption?*
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it easily in the oven or microwave before serving.

- *Is this recipe vegan?*
You can adapt the recipe by using olive oil instead of butter and substituting the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds or banana for the filling.

Now that you have all the information you need, all that's left is to get cooking! This zucchini and fresh vegetable tart is perfect for adding a splash of color and health to your plate. Enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones!