Strawberry tart
Strawberry Tart: A Summer Delight
On warm summer days, when strawberries are in season, nothing compares to a fresh, fragrant, and colorful tart. This strawberry tart recipe is not only simple but will bring a touch of joy to any dessert lover's table. The tart perfectly balances the natural sweetness of strawberries with the crunchy texture of a flaky crust, and making it will turn any moment into a true culinary celebration.
Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients needed:
For the crust:
- 2 ½ cups (350 grams) of flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of sugar
- 1 cup (226 grams) of unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- ¼ - ½ cup (60-120 ml) of ice water
For the strawberry filling:
- 450-500 grams of fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ½ cup (100 grams) of sugar
- 2 tablespoons (20 grams) of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
For brushing:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of cream
Preparing the strawberry tart:
1. Preparing the crust: Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. These ingredients will form the crunchy base of your tart. Once mixed, add the very cold butter cubes. Use a hand mixer or food processor to blend the ingredients until you achieve a sandy texture.
2. Adding water: Gradually pour the ice-cold water through the feed tube of the food processor. Start with 60 ml and add more gradually until you reach 120 ml, just enough to form a smooth dough. Be careful, as sometimes not all the water is needed. It’s important that the dough is slightly moist but not sticky.
3. Forming the dough: Turn the dough out onto a work surface and gently knead it just until it comes together. Divide the dough into two pieces, roll each piece into a ball, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help achieve a flaky crust.
4. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add this mixture to the hulled strawberries and gently toss to coat them evenly. The strawberries will release a delicious juice, and the cornstarch will help thicken it during baking.
5. Assembling the tart: Take one piece of dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to form a thin sheet. Place the dough sheet into the tart pan, making sure to cover the edges well. Pour the strawberry filling into the prepared crust, then add a few small pieces of butter on top for extra flavor.
6. Decorating the tart: Use the second piece of dough to create decorative shapes, such as stars or strips. These will not only enhance the appearance but also allow the strawberries to be visible, giving a rustic look. Brush the shapes with a mixture of egg and cream for a golden, glossy crust.
7. Baking: Place the tart in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Bake for 30-35 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 170 degrees and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the strawberries are well cooked. Be careful! It’s recommended to place the tart on a tray to catch any juice leaks.
8. Cooling and serving: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature before serving. Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect experience.
Practical tips:
- Make sure the butter is very cold, as this helps achieve a flaky crust.
- You can add a splash of vanilla extract to the strawberry filling for extra flavor.
- If you don’t have strawberries on hand, you can use other berries or peaches to vary the recipe.
Nutritional information:
One serving of strawberry tart contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making this tart not only delicious but also healthy.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- How can I store the tart? It’s best to keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days.
- Can I use a different dough recipe? Absolutely! You can experiment with a seed or oat crust for a healthier taste.
This strawberry tart is perfect for a garden party or summer picnic. Serve it alongside a glass of cold lemonade or a semi-dry white wine, and your guests will be delighted! Try this simple and delicious recipe and bring a touch of sunshine to every slice!
Ingredients: Crust 2 1/2 cups (350 grams) flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons (30 grams) sugar 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1/4 to 1/2 cup (60-120 ml) ice water Strawberry filling: 450-500g fresh strawberries 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar 2 tablespoons (20g) cornstarch 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon zest For brushing: 1 egg 1 tablespoon sour cream
