Pea and cheese tart

Pea and Cheese Tart - A Burst of Flavors

If you're looking for a recipe that combines the freshness of vegetables with the richness of cheese and vibrant flavors, then the pea and cheese tart is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it ideal for lunches, dinners, or even as an appetizer at a party. Made with a flaky pastry or, for those in a hurry, puff pastry, this tart is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

A Brief History of Pea and Cheese Tart

The pea and cheese tart has a rich history, rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, tarts have been appreciated for their versatility, able to be filled with a variety of ingredients, from fresh vegetables to meats and fine cheeses. Peas, a popular ingredient in many cuisines, have often been used for their sweet flavor and crunchy texture, which pair perfectly with creamy cheese.

Necessary Ingredients

*For the pastry:*
- 250 g flour
- 125 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt

*For the filling:*
- 250 g cottage cheese (or feta cheese for a stronger flavor)
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups of fresh peas (or frozen, but fresh is always better)
- 200 g ham (can be replaced with bacon or a vegetarian option)
- 100 g grated cheese
- 4 cloves of garlic (fresh to enhance the flavor)
- A handful of fresh parsley (chopped)
- A handful of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step to Achieve the Perfect Tart

1. Making the pastry:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the cubed butter, sugar, and salt to the edge of the flour. In the center of the flour mound, crack the egg. Using your fingers, mix the ingredients until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. Continue kneading until you obtain a smooth, non-sticky dough.

2. Chilling the dough:
Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a flaky and crisp pastry.

3. Rolling out the dough:
After the dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the bottom and sides of a tart pan. Cut out a circle and place it in the greased tart pan. From the leftover dough, form a roll to use for the tart's edge. Flatten the roll to fit perfectly along the edge of the pan.

4. Pre-baking the pastry:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat) and bake the pastry for 10 minutes. This step will ensure a crispy base for the filling.

5. Preparing the filling:
In a pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the peas. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain the water. Add the crushed garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme. Mix well.

6. Combining the ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the cottage cheese. Mix until you have a smooth mixture. If you want a creamier texture, add a spoonful of sour cream. Add the olive oil, grated cheese, diced ham, and boiled peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Filling the tart:
Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked pastry, leveling it evenly. Bake the tart at 180°C for 30-40 minutes, until the filling is set and the top turns golden.

8. Serving:
Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. It can be served warm or cold, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of Greek yogurt. A drizzle of olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves will add an extra touch of flavor.

Helpful Tips:
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini.
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Nutritional Information:
A serving of pea and cheese tart has approximately 320 calories, making it an excellent choice due to the protein content from the cheese and eggs, as well as the fiber from the peas. It is a balanced meal, rich in essential nutrients.

In conclusion, the pea and cheese tart is not just a simple recipe, but a culinary experience that brings together delicious flavors and textures. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or to treat your family, this tart is sure to become a staple in your menu. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and adapt it to your liking!

 Ingredients: Dough: 250 g flour 125 g butter 1 egg 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt Filling: 250 g cottage cheese 2 eggs 2 cups fresh peas 200 g ham 100 g cheese 4 cloves of garlic parsley thyme 2 tablespoons olive oil salt, pepper

 Tags:  peas cottage cheese ham tender dough