Zucchini and cheese tart
Zucchini and Cheese Tart
Zucchini, an often underestimated ingredient, can become the star of your kitchen. This zucchini and cheese tart is an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. Besides being delicious, it is also versatile, as it can be served warm or cold. So, let’s get inspired by simple flavors and get to work!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 220 ml buttermilk (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 1 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
- 400 g flour
For the filling:
- 250 g sheep cheese (or feta cheese, depending on preference)
- 1 boiled chicken breast (diced)
- 1 medium zucchini (peeled and sliced thin)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 2 large eggs (or 3 smaller ones)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- chopped dill (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (for a creamier texture)
For decoration:
- 1 large tomato (sliced)
Nutritional Information
This tart is rich in protein due to the eggs and chicken breast, while the zucchini provides fiber and essential vitamins. The sheep cheese adds an intense and creamy flavor. One serving of tart contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.
Preparation
1. Preparing the dough:
Start by adding the ingredients for the dough into the bread machine in the following order: buttermilk, salt, sugar, oil, baking powder, flour, and finally, the yeast. Make sure the yeast does not come into direct contact with the salt. Select the kneading and rising program.
2. Preparing the filling:
While the machine is working, you can prepare the filling. In a pan, heat the oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté it over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the sliced zucchini and mix well. Let the mixture cook for 10-15 minutes, covering the pan to help the zucchini soften. Once the zucchini is ready, let the mixture cool.
3. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, grate the sheep cheese, then add the cooled zucchini and onion mixture. Incorporate the boiled chicken breast, eggs, Greek yogurt, and season with salt, pepper, and dill if using. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.
4. Forming the tart:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two pieces. A larger piece will form the base of the tart. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and shape it to fit a 25 cm tart pan. Grease the pan with butter before adding the dough.
5. Filling:
Place the cheese and zucchini mixture over the dough in the pan. Arrange the tomato slices on top for an appealing look and fresh taste.
6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tart in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and nicely browned.
Serving
This tart can be served warm or cold. It is perfect as an appetizer or as a main dish for a light dinner. If you want to add an extra touch, you can pair the tart with a fresh green salad or a flavorful yogurt sauce.
Variations and Suggestions
- Replace zucchini with spinach or mushrooms for a different version.
- You can add olives or bell peppers for a more intense flavor.
- If you have zucchini flowers, you can use them as decoration, giving an elegant look and subtle taste.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to customize your tart.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier dough, but the texture will be different.
2. What can I do with leftover filling?
You can use the leftover filling for omelets or as a filling for pancakes.
3. How can I make the dough without a bread machine?
You can knead the dough by hand, mixing the ingredients in a large bowl and kneading it for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic.
Personal Note
This zucchini and cheese tart has quickly become one of my favorite recipes. It’s easy to make and reminds me of the days spent with family around the table, enjoying simple yet flavorful dishes. I hope you try it and enjoy it as much as I do!
Once you’ve tried this recipe, don’t hesitate to share your experience! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: For the dough: 220 ml of room temperature buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 4 tablespoons of oil, 1 packet of baking powder, 1 packet (7g) of dry yeast, 400 g of flour. For the filling: 250 g of sheep cheese, one boiled chicken breast, one medium zucchini, 1 onion, 3 tablespoons of oil, 2 large eggs or 3 smaller ones, salt, pepper, and if you like, chopped dill, 1 generous tablespoon of Greek yogurt. For decoration: one large tomato.
