Lenten Tart

Lenten Tart: A Vegetarian Delight That Will Captivate You

Who can resist such a flavorful and aromatic dish as the Lenten tart? This recipe is a perfect alternative to classic pizza, being not only delicious but also healthy. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, the Lenten tart quickly becomes a family favorite. Let’s discover together the steps to prepare this culinary marvel!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 400 g flour
- 100 g margarine
- 100 ml sparkling water
- A pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 500 g tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 bell peppers (colored, for a livelier appearance)
- 2 medium onions
- 200 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or oyster)
- 200 g olives (pitted)
- 50 g tomato sauce
- 100 g mustard (paste)
- Salt, pepper, thyme (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough
Start by preparing the dough for the tart. In a large bowl, add flour, melted margarine, and a pinch of salt. Mix the dry ingredients with the margarine until you achieve a sandy texture. Then, gradually add the sparkling water, kneading with your hands until the dough becomes elastic and homogeneous. It is important not to over-knead it to avoid a tough texture. Once ready, cover it with a clean towel and let it chill for about 30 minutes. This is the perfect time to prepare the filling!

2. Preparing the filling
While the dough rests in the fridge, clean the mushrooms and slice them thinly. Similarly, clean the tomatoes, peppers, and onions, cutting them into fine strips. If using whole olives, make sure to pit them. This step is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises at the table.

3. Assembling the tart
After 30 minutes, take the dough out of the fridge. In a baking tray lined with parchment paper, stretch the dough with your hands, gently pressing it to evenly cover the bottom and edges of the tray. It is important not to force the dough but to stretch it patiently so that it doesn’t break.

4. Preparing the sauce
In a small bowl, mix the mustard with the tomato sauce, adding salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will add a rich and salty flavor, perfect for complementing the vegetables. Spread the sauce evenly over the tart base using a spatula or a spoon.

5. Adding the vegetables
Now it’s time to add all the vegetables. Evenly distribute the mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and olives over the entire surface of the tart. Sprinkle fresh or dried thyme, which will give an irresistible aroma to the dish.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Once it’s ready, place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes or until the dough turns golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread in the kitchen will make you eagerly await to enjoy this delicious tart!

7. Serving
The tart is served warm, but it is just as tasty at room temperature. You can add a fresh green salad on the side or even a portion of hummus for an extra flavor boost. It is a versatile dish, perfect for family lunches, dinners, or even gatherings with friends.

Useful tips:
- For a more aromatic dough, you can add some dried herbs to the flour mixture.
- If you are looking for gluten-free options, you can replace the flour with a gluten-free blend, adjusting the water quantities according to the ingredient's absorption.
- Instead of mustard, you can try using pesto or a tomato paste with basil to slightly change the flavor profile.

Nutritional information:
This Lenten tart is an excellent choice for those who want to combine taste with a healthy lifestyle. Each serving provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. It is also low in saturated fats, making it a suitable option for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is flexible, so you can add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.

- How can I store the tart?
If you have leftovers, you can store the tart in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave to regain its crispy texture.

- Is it suitable for vegans?
Yes, this tart is perfect for vegans, as long as you choose margarine that does not contain animal-derived ingredients.

This Lenten tart recipe is not just a simple meal but a culinary experience that will make you fall in love with cooking! Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!