Vegetable and Ham Tart

Vegetable and Ham Tart: An Explosion of Flavors in a Delicious Crust

If you're looking for a recipe that offers a perfect combination of fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and a crunchy texture, you've found it! The vegetable and ham tart is not only an excellent choice for a quick dinner but also a versatile option for meals with friends or family. It's a simple yet flavorful recipe that is sure to win over all eaters.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 250g)
- 400g peas (preferably frozen) with carrots
- 100g turkey ham (diced)
- 150g feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 eggs
- 100g sour cream
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250ml)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried basil, to preference

A Brief Story

The vegetable and ham tart has its roots in culinary traditions that emphasize the use of seasonal ingredients. This recipe perfectly combines the flavors of vegetables with the richness of feta cheese, creating a dish that is both hearty and healthy. The tart can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for any occasion.

Step by Step: Your Guide to a Perfect Tart

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by sautéing the peas with carrots in a large skillet. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté over medium heat for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables become slightly soft and release their flavors.

2. Adding the ham
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the diced turkey ham. Continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. The ham will add a salty and savory note, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the peas and carrots.

3. Combining the ingredients
In a separate bowl, crumble the feta cheese with a fork. Add it to the skillet over the sautéed vegetables, along with the pepper and basil. Mix well so that the cheese is evenly incorporated into the dish.

4. Preparing the cream
In another bowl, beat the two eggs. Add the sour cream and milk, mixing well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, to taste. This cream will give the tart a velvety texture and delicious flavor.

5. The dough
While the vegetables cool slightly, roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface. Use a rolling pin to form a round shape, large enough to cover the bottom and sides of a 26 cm tart pan. Place the dough in the pan and trim the excess dough from the edges.

6. Assembling the tart
Spread the vegetable and ham mixture evenly over the bottom of the tart. Carefully pour the egg and sour cream mixture on top, ensuring it distributes evenly. This step is essential for achieving a well-bound tart that won't crumble when served.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tart in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes or until the dough is golden and the filling is well cooked. Check the tart with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it's ready!

8. Serving
Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, which will add a refreshing note.

Useful Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can replace peas with fresh spinach or zucchini. Additionally, turkey ham can be substituted with prosciutto or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Enhancements: Add some black olives or bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor.
- Serving: The tart pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or homemade lemonade, which will complement the dish's flavors.

Nutritional Information

This tart is an excellent nutritional choice. Peas are rich in fiber and protein, while feta cheese provides calcium and vitamins. A serving of tart has approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying dish without overloading daily calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with goat cheese or mozzarella, but feta cheese offers a unique taste due to its saltiness.

- Can the tart be frozen?
It is recommended not to freeze the tart after baking, but you can freeze the dough and filling separately, then assemble and bake them on the desired day.

- How long does the tart keep?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore the crispy texture of the dough.

Conclusion

The vegetable and ham tart is a versatile and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a bit of creativity and a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to impress everyone. So put on your apron and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen! Enjoy!