Zucchini and tomato tart

Zucchini and tomato tart is an excellent choice for warm summer days, offering a delicious combination of fresh, healthy, and flavorful ingredients. This recipe is not only easy to make but can also be customized according to your preferences by adding other vegetables or cheeses. Let's discover together how to prepare this savory tart, step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the tart dough:
- 250 g flour
- 15 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 50 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1 egg
- 100 ml lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 2 small zucchinis, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 150 g grated cheese (or feta cheese for a saltier taste)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for greasing the pan

A Brief History

The tart is a versatile dish that has evolved over time into various forms and with different fillings, often associated with festive meals or light snacks. This zucchini and tomato tart combines tradition with seasonal ingredients, bringing a fresh and aromatic taste to the table. It is perfect not only for lunch but also as an appetizer at a party or as a healthy snack.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the dough

Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the yeast. If using dry yeast, remember to activate it in lukewarm water for 5 minutes before adding it.

Add the beaten egg, melted margarine, and Italian herbs into the well created. Gently mix with a fork to incorporate the ingredients.

Begin to gradually add lukewarm water, kneading the dough with your hands. Continue kneading until you obtain a smooth, elastic, and non-crumbly dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 2: Resting the dough

Form a ball from the dough and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes in a warm place. This step will allow the yeast to act, resulting in a slightly fluffier dough.

Step 3: Preparing the filling

In the meantime, prepare the filling. Wash the zucchinis and tomatoes. Cut the zucchinis into thin rounds and the tomatoes into slices. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra texture and flavor.

Step 4: Assembling the tart

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet large enough to cover the bottom and edges of a tart pan. Grease the pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the dough in the prepared pan, trimming any excess dough from the edges. Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese on the bottom of the tart, then add a uniform layer of zucchini rounds and tomato slices. You can sprinkle a little freshly ground pepper for extra flavor.

Cover everything with the remaining grated cheese, ensuring the vegetables are well covered.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the dough turns golden and crispy, and the cheese on top melts and forms a delicious crust.

Step 6: Serving

Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the cheese to set, making it easier to cut. Serve the tart warm or at room temperature, as an appetizer or snack. It is delicious alongside a fresh salad or a light vinaigrette.

Useful Tips

- Filling variations: Instead of zucchini and tomatoes, you can use spinach, mushrooms, olives, or even cabbage, depending on your preferences.
- Alternative cheeses: Substitute the cheese with mozzarella for a more elastic texture or with feta cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Serving: The tart pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing green tea, adding a touch of freshness to your meal.
- Storage: The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and is just as tasty, even cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
Yes, whole wheat flour is a healthy choice and offers a more pronounced flavor. It may require a bit more water, so adjust the amount as needed.

2. How can I prevent the tart from being soggy?
To prevent moisture, you can sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the tart before adding the filling. This will absorb excess water.

3. Is this tart suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can turn this recipe into a vegan one by using vegan margarine and a flax egg or another egg substitute.

The zucchini and tomato tart is not only a simple recipe but also a perfect opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. So, don't hesitate to play with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this delicious dish! Bon appétit!