Fine tart with strawberries and meringue

Fine strawberry tart with meringue: a delicacy that combines the flavor of fresh fruits with a light and sweet layer of meringue. This recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to celebrate summer using seasonal ingredients. Discover how to prepare this delicious tart, step by step, and enjoy a refined dessert perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 100 g soft butter
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 200 g wheat flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- 3 drops of oil

For the filling:
- 400 g fresh strawberries
- 3 egg whites
- 150 g granulated sugar

Preparation:

1. Oven preparation: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (medium). This step is essential as a constant temperature will ensure even baking of the tart.

2. Preparing the crust:
a. In a large bowl, add the soft butter, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine these ingredients. Mix at medium speed until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes fluffy.
b. Add the two eggs, baking powder, and salt. Continue mixing until well combined.
c. Incorporate the flour, cornstarch, and oil. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until there are no traces of flour. It is important not to overmix to avoid developing the gluten in the flour.

3. Forming the tart:
a. Grease a tart pan with a little oil to prevent sticking.
b. Transfer the dough to the pan and spread it evenly with lightly floured hands. Make sure the dough reaches the edges of the pan.
c. Wash the strawberries, cut them in half, and place them cut side down, gently pressing them into the dough. This will help the strawberries integrate into the dough during baking.

4. Baking the tart: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the crust is golden and firm.

5. Preparing the meringue:
a. While the tart is baking, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl using a mixer. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. This is a crucial moment; the meringue must be well beaten to achieve a perfect texture.
b. When the tart is ready, remove it from the oven and evenly spread the meringue on top. Use a spatula to create peaks or patterns that will become crispy during baking.

6. Finishing: Put the tart back in the oven and bake for another 5-8 minutes or until the meringue turns light golden. Be careful, as the meringue can burn easily.

7. Cooling: Once the meringue is perfectly baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This will help maintain its shape.

8. Serving: The tart is served warm or at room temperature. You can add a spoonful of cream or vanilla ice cream for an even more refined taste. A glass of white wine or a fruit tea will perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional benefits: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. The butter and sugar in the crust add a rich flavor, but moderation is key.

Variations: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or raspberries, to create different versions of this tart. You can also add a little almond extract to the meringue for a more complex flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I make the tart less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the meringue or opt for more tart strawberries.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Although not recommended, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the tart.

This fine strawberry tart recipe with meringue will bring a smile to your face and impress any guest. Once again, remember that cooking is an art, so enjoy every step of the process and let your creativity shine!