Strawberry tart
Strawberry Tart Recipe – A Refreshing Delight for Hot Days
In the summer heat, there is nothing more refreshing and delicious than a tart made with fresh strawberries, combining the natural sweetness of the fruit with a smooth cream and a crispy crust. This simple and quick strawberry tart recipe is perfect for a sunny Sunday when the desire for coolness and freshness becomes unbearable. Let’s get to work!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 350 g flour
- 2 large eggs
- 80 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 100 g sugar
For the cream:
- 400 ml milk (whole milk for a richer cream)
- 500 g strawberries (choose fresh, ripe, and fragrant strawberries)
- 100 g sugar
- 80 g cornstarch
- 100 g white chocolate (optional, for a decadent touch)
For decoration:
- Fresh strawberries (a few for garnish)
- Grated chocolate (for an elegant look)
- Fresh mint leaves (for a touch of freshness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Strawberry Cream
We start with the cream, as it needs to cool before filling the tart. Wash the strawberries well under cold running water, then cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preference. Place the strawberries in a pot, add the milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Using a blender, mix the ingredients until smooth.
Put the pot on low heat and stir constantly with a spatula or whisk. This step is essential to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring for 10-15 minutes until the cream thickens. Once the desired consistency is achieved, remove the pot from the heat and let the cream cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Preparing the Crust
In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, oil, and grated lemon zest. Using a spatula or your hands, mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, but avoid adding too much to keep it from becoming dense.
Once the dough is formed, sprinkle a little flour on a clean work surface and knead the dough for a few minutes. Shape it into a ball, then wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Baking the Crust
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the dough on a floured surface using a rolling pin until you get a circle about 28-30 cm in diameter, depending on the size of the tart pan you are using. Transfer the dough to the tart pan, making sure the edges are well defined.
Using a fork, prick the dough in several places to prevent it from puffing up. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Assembling the Tart
When the strawberry cream is completely cooled, pour it into the cooled tart shell. Spread the cream evenly, then decorate with fresh strawberries and grated chocolate on top. Add a few mint leaves for a fresh and pleasant look.
Serving Suggestions
The strawberry tart is delicious served plain, but it can be accompanied by vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce for a perfect temperature contrast. Fresh lemonade or iced herbal tea are ideal drinks to complement this dessert.
Vegan Option
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with ground flaxseeds (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds + 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) and cow's milk with almond or soy milk. Sugar can be replaced with a natural sweetener, such as maple syrup.
Nutritional Benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them excellent for the immune system and digestive health. Additionally, while delicious, white chocolate should be consumed in moderation as it is high in calories. A serving of tart contains approximately 350 calories, making it perfect for a special occasion without exceeding the daily caloric limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Of course! This recipe works very well with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
2. How can I store the tart?
The tart is best stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. It is recommended to consume it shortly to maintain the freshness of the strawberries.
3. How can I prevent the dough from becoming too wet?
Make sure the dough is well baked and that you do not add too much milk to the cream. If necessary, you can add a little extra cornstarch.
The Story Behind the Recipe
The strawberry tart is a seasonal dessert, often associated with summer memories when strawberries are at their sweetest and most fragrant. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, each adding a personal touch and a dash of creativity. It is the perfect dessert for gathering family around the table and savoring unforgettable moments.
In conclusion, strawberry tart is more than just a dessert; it is an experience that brings together the flavors of summer and the joy of cooking. So, put on your chef's attire and let yourself be inspired by the fresh aromas of the season. Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough 350 grams flour 2 eggs 80 ml oil 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel 100 g sugar For the cream 400 ml milk 500 g strawberries 100 g sugar 80 g starch 100 g white chocolate strawberries for decoration
