Spinach, mushroom, and cheese tart

Spinach, Mushroom and Cheese Tart - A Savory Delight

Welcome to our kitchen! Today I invite you to prepare together a spinach, mushroom, and cheese tart, a recipe that harmoniously blends fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. This tart is not only a treat but also a perfect option for light lunches or sophisticated dinners. Let’s venture into the world of cooking!

General Information

- Preparation time: 45 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Number of servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories per serving: approximately 350 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, thanks to spinach and cheese.

Necessary Ingredients

*For the dough (Pâte Brisée):*

- 250 g flour
- 120 g cold butter
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- a pinch of salt

*For the filling:*

- 500 g fresh spinach leaves
- 200 g cheese (feta, goat cheese, cheddar, mozzarella - choose your favorite)
- 3-4 fresh mushrooms, sliced
- salt and pepper to taste
- a pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Recipe History

The tart is a culinary dish with deep roots in culinary tradition. Over time, it has evolved from a simple filled dough into various sophisticated forms. This spinach and mushroom tart combines seasonal ingredients, turning into a symbol of freshness and health. Spinach, known for its high iron and vitamin content, combines perfectly with creamy cheeses and aromatic mushrooms, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.

Preparing the Dough (Pâte Brisée)

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are cold. This is the key to a perfect flaky dough. You can even cool your hands under cold running water before starting.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and, using your fingertips, mix until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.

3. Adding the yolk: Beat the egg yolk with the two tablespoons of cold water and add it to the bowl. Mix gently with your cold hands until a homogeneous dough forms. Be careful not to over-knead!

4. Chilling the dough: Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This will help develop flavors and firm up the texture.

Preparing the Filling

1. Sautéing the mushrooms: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the sliced mushrooms over medium heat until golden. This process will intensify the mushrooms' flavor.

2. Adding the spinach: When the mushrooms are almost done, add the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly, so just a few minutes are enough for it to soften.

3. Seasoning the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the diced cheese with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the mixture with mushrooms and spinach, stirring gently to avoid crushing the cheese.

Assembling the Tart

1. Rolling out the dough: Remove the tart dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until you achieve a sheet the size of your tart pan.

2. Lining the pan: Place the dough in the tart pan, ensuring it fits well. Use a fork to make a few holes in the dough to allow air to circulate during baking.

3. Adding the filling: Pour the mixture of cheese, mushrooms, and spinach into the prepared tart. If you want a richer crust, you can top it with a mixture of cream, egg, and grated cheese.

Baking the Tart

1. Preheating the oven: Set the oven to 170°C. It is important to have it well heated before placing the tart inside.

2. Baking the tart: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

3. Cooling: Once baked, let the tart cool for a few minutes before cutting it. This step will help stabilize the filling.

Serving Suggestions

The spinach, mushroom, and cheese tart can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce, which will add a refreshing note. Additionally, a glass of white wine or herbal tea pairs perfectly with this tart.

Variations and Practical Tips

- You can experiment with different types of cheese to achieve unique flavors. Blue cheese or ricotta can offer a different texture and taste.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the filling for an extra touch of freshness.
- If you want a heartier vegetarian tart, you can also add tofu or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, for a quick dish, you can use store-bought tart dough. Make sure it is of good quality.

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it gently in the oven.

3. Is this tart suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using plant-based cheese and omit the egg from the cream mixture.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to try this delicious recipe! Happy cooking and don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process. Bon appétit!