Ham and broccoli tart

Ham and Broccoli Tart: A Savory Delight for All Tastes

Welcome to the world of cooking, where the aroma of fresh ingredients and the perfect combination of textures transform into an unforgettable culinary experience! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a ham and broccoli tart, a simple yet extremely delicious recipe that can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. This tart is not only a delight for the taste buds but also an excellent way to add vegetables to your diet.

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

Required ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 125 g cold butter, cubed
- 260 g flour
- 1 egg
- 2-3 tablespoons of cold water
- a pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 4 eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 200 g ham (preferably smoked for an intense flavor)
- 200 g cheese (cottage cheese or cheddar, according to preference)
- 300 g broccoli (about half a medium broccoli)
- 1/4 red bell pepper
- 1 medium red onion
- salt and pepper to taste

A brief history of the tart:

The tart is a culinary dish with deep roots, dating back to ancient times. It is believed that its origin lies in medieval kitchens when people used dough to create vessels for various fillings. Over time, the tart has evolved, becoming a symbol of refined gastronomy. This ham and broccoli recipe pays homage to tradition by combining simple ingredients in innovative ways.

Step by step: Preparing the ham and broccoli tart

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by bringing all the ingredients for the dough to room temperature. Make sure the butter is cold, as this will make the dough crispier. In a food processor, add the cubed butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix for 2-3 minutes until the mixture resembles wet sand.

2. Adding the egg:
Crack the egg into a separate bowl and lightly beat it with a fork. Add the beaten egg to the flour and butter mixture. If the dough does not come together well, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until you achieve a uniform consistency.

3. Forming the dough:
Remove the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a ball. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a sheet about 3-4 mm thick. Transfer the dough to a buttered tart pan, ensuring to press it well into the corners. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.

4. Preparing the filling:
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Break the broccoli into small florets and wash them well. Slice the red onion into julienne and place it in a pan with a little oil. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes, then add the broccoli and continue cooking for 10-12 minutes until the broccoli becomes slightly tender.

5. Adding the ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the 4 eggs with the milk, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed ham, cubed cheese, and the broccoli and onion mixture. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Assembling the tart:
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and pour the filling into the tart pan. Garnish with strips of red bell pepper for an appealing look and a touch of freshness.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tart in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the surface turns golden and nicely browned. Try not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes to allow the tart to rise evenly.

8. Serving:
Once the tart is ready, let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. You can serve the tart warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh green salad or a yogurt side. This combination will add a touch of freshness and balance the rich flavors of the tart.

Useful tips for a perfect recipe:

- Use quality butter for a tastier dough.
- You can replace broccoli with other seasonal vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to vary the recipe.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add spices like nutmeg or sweet paprika to the filling.
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and is delicious even cold.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a different flavor.

2. How can I make the dough healthier?
You can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for a higher fiber content.

3. Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, the tart can be frozen before baking. Make sure it is well covered with plastic wrap.

Approximate nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fats: 18 g

The ham and broccoli tart is not only a quick recipe but also an opportunity to bring family and friends together at the table. Whether you serve it at a special dinner or as an appetizer at a gathering, this tart will surely be a hit. Enjoy cooking and every bite!

 Ingredients: Dough 125g butter 260g flour 1 egg 2-3 tablespoons of water salt Filling: 4 eggs 250ml milk 200g ham 200g cheese 300g broccoli 1/4 red bell pepper 1 medium red onion salt pepper

 Tags:  appetizer tart ham pie