Zucchini Tart with Sheep Cheese
This zucchini tart with sheep cheese is a delightful and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The buttery and flaky crust complements the rich filling made from fresh zucchini, creamy sheep cheese, and aromatic herbs. The combination of flavors is enhanced by a touch of garlic and a hint of spice from cayenne pepper. This tart is easy to prepare and makes a wonderful centerpiece for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The use of sheep cheese imparts a distinct flavor, but you can easily swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste. Serve it warm or cold, and enjoy the burst of fresh summer flavors in every bite. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It's an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in the comforting blend of cheese and pastry. A versatile dish, it pairs well with a crisp green salad or a glass of your favorite white wine.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 125 g cold butter
- 250 g flour
- Salt
- 4 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling:
- 500 g young zucchini
- 250 g sheep cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bunch parsley or basil
- 2 cloves garlic
- White pepper
- Cayenne pepper
- 200 g cream
- 4 eggs
Preparation Time
Total: 90 minutes (prep and cooking time)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Cut the cold butter into small pieces and mix with flour, a generous pinch of salt, and about 4 tablespoons cold water to combine into a smooth dough.
- Shape the crust: Press the dough into a tart pan, preferably with removable sides, forming a 3 cm high rim. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash, peel, and cut the zucchini into cubes.
- Cook the zucchini: In a pan, heat olive oil. Add the zucchini cubes and sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they are golden on all sides. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Prepare sheep cheese: Cut the sheep cheese into very small cubes and mix with the sautéed zucchini.
- Chop herbs: Wash and shake off excess water from parsley or basil. Pluck the leaves from the stems, chop finely, and add to the zucchini mixture.
- Garlic addition: Press garlic cloves through a garlic press and blend them into the zucchini mixture.
- Season the filling: Add white pepper, a little cayenne pepper, and salt to taste.
- Assemble the filling: Spread the zucchini and cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
- Prepare the topping: Beat the cream with eggs, adding salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the tart filling.
- Bake the tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake at 160 degrees Celsius for approximately 45 minutes, until the tart is beautifully browned.
Tips
- Substitute sheep cheese: If unavailable, use mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Herbs choice: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or chives for different flavor profiles.
- Crust efficiency: Use a food processor to make the dough-making process quicker and easier.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 16 g
- Fats: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
Variations
- Gluten-free: Use almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour.
- Vegan option: Replace butter with vegan margarine and use tofu instead of cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad with a light lemon vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Best Places
- Le Pain Quotidien - Known for its rustic ambiance and delicious pastries. Location: 8 rue de Cheroy, Paris, France.
- Ottolenghi - A delight for your taste buds with creative dishes. Location: 287 Upper Street, London, England.
- Tartine Bakery - Famous for gourmet pies and sweets. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
- Konditorei Hamman - Excellent selection of tarts and pastries. Location: Rathausplatz 18, Vienna, Austria.
- Pierre Hermé - Renowned for innovative flavors. Location: 72 rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
- Tartine Manufactory - Extensive menu featuring superb tarts. Location: 595 Alabama St, San Francisco, USA.
- Café Savoy - An elegant spot for premium pastries and coffee. Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Bottega Louie - A contemporary eatery with a focus on quality pastries. Location: 700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
- Dominique Ansel Bakery - Home of the 'cronut'. Location: 189 Spring St, New York City, USA.
- Fauchon - Offers a luxurious selection of gourmet foods. Location: 30 Place de la Madeleine, Paris, France.