Spinach, cheese, and cherry tomato tart

Spinach, cheese, and cherry tomato tart is a savory dish, perfect for a lunch or a light dinner. This recipe combines the crunchy texture of a tart crust with the creamy filling of spinach and cheese, all flavored with juicy cherry tomatoes. It is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy meal, full of nutrients, but also delicious flavors. Let's venture into making this wonderful tart!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 1 egg
- 100 ml water
- 100 g butter (softened at room temperature)
- 270 g flour
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 2 bunches of fresh spinach (about 230 g)
- A few green onion stalks
- 85 g cheese (grated)
- 300 g buffalo cheese (grated)
- 5 eggs
- 12 cherry tomatoes

Recipe History

The tart, a dish with deep roots in culinary traditions, has evolved over the centuries, becoming a popular choice in many cultures. This spinach and cheese tart is inspired by Mediterranean recipes, where fresh vegetables are often integrated into hearty dishes. Spinach, rich in vitamins and minerals, adds not only a pleasant taste but also a boost of nutrients. And the sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes provide a note of freshness, making them the perfect ingredient to complete this delicacy.

Preparing the Crust

1. Preparing the dough: Start by adding the egg, butter, cornmeal, and a pinch of salt into a bowl. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients until they are well combined.

2. Adding flour and water: Gradually add the flour and water, kneading gently until you obtain a smooth dough. The dough should not be too hard, but rather soft and slightly elastic.

3. Chilling the dough: Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a flaky crust.

Preparing the Filling

1. Preparing the spinach: Wash the spinach well under cold running water, then blanch it in a pot of boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Once done, drain it well and chop it finely.

2. Green onions: Slice the green onions thinly.

3. Sautéing the spinach: In a skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add the sliced green onions and chopped spinach. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until all the moisture has evaporated.

4. Mixing the filling: In a separate bowl, beat the 5 eggs. Add the grated cheese and buffalo cheese, then incorporate the cooled spinach mixture. Taste the filling and adjust the salt if necessary, keeping in mind that the buffalo cheese is salty.

Assembling the Tart

1. Rolling out the dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and keep a small piece for decoration. Use a rolling pin to roll out the remaining dough into a thin sheet. Place the dough sheet in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, ensuring it rises up the sides of the dish.

2. Pre-baking the crust: Cover the dough with parchment paper and place beans or a weight on top to prevent puffing. Bake the dough in the preheated oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, until it becomes lightly golden.

3. Adding the filling: Remove the dish from the oven and place the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the crust. Then pour the spinach and cheese filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

4. Decorating: Using the reserved dough, form thin strips that you can braid and place around the edge of the tart. You can also create a star shape in the center of the tart, inspired by your daughter’s suggestion, for an even more attractive appearance.

5. Egg wash: Beat an egg and brush it over the surface of the tart for a beautifully browned crust.

Baking

1. Finishing: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tart is well browned. The flavors will start to meld, and your home will be filled with a delicious aroma.

2. Cooling: Once the tart is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. It can be served warm or cold, being just as tasty in both variations.

Practical Tips

- Types of cheese: If you don’t have buffalo cheese, you can use any salty cheese you have on hand, such as feta or goat cheese.
- Fresh vs. frozen spinach: If you can’t find fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach, making sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- Serving: The tart is perfect alongside a fresh green salad or with a garlic yogurt sauce for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to the filling, or experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Benefits

This spinach tart is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. The cheese adds quality protein, and the cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or even beets.

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the tart can be frozen before baking. You can bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

This spinach, cheese, and cherry tomato tart is a versatile recipe that brings together delicious flavors and textures. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite! It can become a family favorite, perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Dough: one egg, 100 ml water, 100 g butter, 270 g flour, 2 tablespoons cornmeal, a pinch of salt. Filling: two bunches of spinach (230 g), a few green onions, 85 g cheese, 300 g buffalo cheese, 5 eggs, 12 cherry tomatoes.