Lemon and lime tart

Lemon and lime tart: a refined and refreshing experience

This lemon and lime tart is a true delight, a perfect combination of acidity and sweetness that will enchant your senses and bring a touch of sunshine to every day. Inspired by a special recipe I discovered from a friend in Paris, I made a few adjustments to add a hint of lime and a note of chocolate. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this savory tart, which will surely become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 300 g flour
- 120 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Milk (enough to bind the dough)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt

For the lemon and lime cream:
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 5 eggs
- 2-3 tablespoons flour
- 150 g sugar
- A pinch of salt

For serving (optional):
- Melted chocolate for decoration
- Vanilla ice cream

Useful tips for ingredients:
- Choose a high-quality butter for a flakier crust.
- Fresh lemons and limes are essential for an intense and vibrant flavor. Avoid store-bought juice, which may contain preservatives.
- Adding a pinch of salt to the dough and cream will enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.

Recipe history:
The lemon tart is a classic dessert, often associated with French cuisine, but its popularity has spread worldwide. This lime variant adds a note of freshness and complexity, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion, from festive meals to weekend get-togethers with friends.

Preparing the crust:
1. In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with sugar until creamy.
2. Add the egg and lemon zest, continuing to mix.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing with a spatula.
4. Add milk gradually until the dough becomes smooth and easy to roll out. Be careful not to add too much milk!
5. Once the dough is ready, form it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it rest for a few hours to firm up.

Preparing the lemon and lime cream:
1. In a bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until well combined.
2. Add the sour cream, lemon and lime juice and zest, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you have a smooth cream.

Assembling the tart:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat).
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface, slightly larger than the diameter of the tart pan.
3. Roll the dough onto a rolling pin and place it in the tart pan, making sure it fits evenly along the edges.
4. Prick the dough with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
5. Pour the lemon and lime cream over the prepared dough.

Baking:
1. Bake the tart for 35-40 minutes or until the cream is set and slightly golden at the edges.
2. If you notice that the filling is liquid and the oven is not perfectly level, you can place a piece of aluminum foil under the pan to achieve an even height.

Serving:
1. Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. I love to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If it cools down, you can gently reheat it in the microwave to restore its creamy texture.
2. For a special touch, drizzle some melted chocolate around the edge of the tart before serving.

Possible variations:
- You can add a few fresh mint leaves to the cream for an even fresher taste.
- Experiment with other citrus fruits, such as oranges or grapefruit, for a different flavor.
- If you like sweeter desserts, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the tart before serving.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of flour?
- Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different, but the taste will be just as delicious.
2. How can I store the tart?
- The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered in an airtight container, for 3-4 days.
3. Is it possible to freeze the tart?
- It is not recommended to freeze the tart, as the texture of the cream may change.

Nutritional benefits:
This lemon and lime tart is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the citrus fruits. It also contains healthy fats from butter and proteins from eggs, providing an ideal nutritional mix for dessert.

Enjoy every slice of lemon and lime tart, letting yourself be carried away by its refined flavors. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge, this recipe will bring smiles and unforgettable moments with your loved ones! Bon appétit!