Smoked salmon and feta tart

Smoked Salmon and Feta Tart – A Delicacy for Hearts and Souls

Every time a holiday approaches, my thoughts fly to the gifts I could bring to my loved ones. For Medi's birthday, a man with a heart of gold and a trusted friend, I decided that nothing could be more fitting than a savory tart with smoked salmon – a true feast for the taste buds. This tart is not just a recipe, but a declaration of culinary love, and each bite is a tribute to the joy of sharing special moments.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough:
- 375 g flour
- 240 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or thicker yogurt)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- A pinch of sage
- A pinch of ground cumin
- A pinch of pepper
- A handful of flour (for kneading)

For the Filling:
- 2 packs of smoked salmon (thin strips, pre-packaged)
- 300 g feta cheese
- 5 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons thicker sour cream
- 250 g cream cheese
- 2 eggs
- A bunch of chives (finely chopped)
- 2 egg yolks (for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sage, cumin, and pepper. These flavors will give your dough a unique taste.
2. Add the soft butter and mix with your hands until the mixture resembles wet sand. This is the classic technique for achieving a flaky dough.
3. Incorporate the yogurt, egg, and olive oil, continuing to knead. If the dough sticks to your hands, add a little flour, kneading until smooth and homogeneous.
4. Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a flaky and easy-to-roll dough.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. In a mixer, combine the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, sour cream, and cream cheese. Blend until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous mixture.
2. Add the eggs and mix again. This mixture will give the filling a slightly fluffy texture.
3. Finally, fold in the sliced smoked salmon and finely chopped chives. Mix gently, being careful not to crush the salmon.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts: one larger (about 3/4) and one smaller (1/4).
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger piece of dough into a round sheet, large enough to cover the bottom and sides of the tart pan.
4. Place a piece of cling film over the rolled-out dough to help maneuver it more easily. Place it in the tart pan, trimming excess dough from the edges.
5. Prick the bottom of the tart with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.
6. Pour the cheese and salmon filling into the tart, distributing it evenly.
7. With the remaining dough, form 3 strands that you will braid. Place this braid around the edge of the tart.
8. Brush the edges with the beaten egg yolks to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

Step 4: Baking
1. Bake the tart at 200 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes.
2. Reduce the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius and continue baking for 40 minutes. If you notice that the tart is browning too quickly, you can leave the oven door ajar in the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serving
1. Let the tart cool slightly, then serve warm. It is delicious both on its own and accompanied by a fresh green salad or a side of sautéed vegetables.
2. I recommend serving it alongside a glass of dry white wine or a fruit cocktail to enhance the flavors.

Brief History
The smoked salmon and feta tart fits within the tradition of savory dishes, being a popular choice among festive preparations. Its origins can be found in the culinary recipes of diverse cultures, where the combination of cheese and smoked fish brings a rich and comforting taste. This tart is ideal for serving at parties or special events, having a remarkable visual and taste impact.

Practical Tips
- Choosing Salmon: Choose high-quality smoked salmon, as its taste will significantly influence the recipe. Wild salmon has a more pronounced flavor, while farmed salmon is softer and creamier.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the salmon with sautéed spinach or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor in the dough.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to achieve a different flavor.

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispy texture.

3. Can the tart be frozen?
Yes, the tart can be frozen before baking. You can take it out a few hours before baking, letting it thaw at room temperature.

Conclusion
The smoked salmon and feta tart is a recipe that combines simplicity with sophistication, making it perfect for celebrating special moments. Cooking with love and care will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces, and each bite will be a true delight. So, don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and share this delicacy with those close to you!