Nouvelle-Aquitaine Quinoa Tartine

Introduction to Nouvelle-Aquitaine Quinoa Tartine

The Nouvelle-Aquitaine Quinoa Tartine is an exquisite blend of rustic French flavors and modern health trends. Originating from the renowned culinary region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine in France, this dish captures the essence of traditional French cuisine while incorporating the highly nutritious quinoa as a base. Tartines, essentially open-faced sandwiches, are a beloved French staple, often enjoyed as a light breakfast or a satisfying lunch. The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, known for its lush landscapes and rich gastronomic heritage, serves as the perfect backdrop for this contemporary twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients for Nouvelle-Aquitaine Quinoa Tartine

• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Sourdough bread - 4 slices
• Goat cheese - 100 grams
• Walnuts - 50 grams, chopped
• Honey - 2 tablespoons
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Arugula - A handful
• Figs - 2, sliced
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon, fresh
• Salt - To taste
• Black pepper - To taste

Preparation of Nouvelle-Aquitaine Quinoa Tartine

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all the ingredients prepared. Begin by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural coating, which can make it taste bitter. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), as this will be needed to toast the walnuts and bake the sourdough bread.

Step 1: Cooking the Quinoa

1. In a medium-sized pot, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water.
2. Add a pinch of salt to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.
4. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water.

Step 2: Preparing the Walnuts

1. Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet.
2. Roast in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant.
3. Remove the walnuts from the oven and let them cool before chopping.

Step 3: Assembling the Tartine

1. Lightly brush the sourdough bread slices with olive oil on both sides.
2. Place the slices on the oven rack and bake for 5-7 minutes until they are lightly toasted.
3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with goat cheese and fresh thyme.
4. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper according to taste.
5. Once the bread is toasted, spread a generous layer of the quinoa-goat cheese mixture on each slice.
6. Top with sliced figs, a handful of arugula, and the roasted walnuts.
7. Drizzle honey over the tartines to add a touch of sweetness.

Enjoying Your Nouvelle-Aquitaine Quinoa Tartine

To fully appreciate the flavors of this delightful tartine, pair it with a light and crisp white wine from the Nouvelle-Aquitaine wine region. The fusion of the creamy goat cheese, sweet figs, and nutty walnuts harmonizes perfectly with a refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Serve your tartine on a sunny terrace or a cozy dining table with friends or family, savoring each bite with good conversation and ambiance.