Occitanie Harvest Tarte
Introduction
The Occitanie Harvest Tarte is a delightful representation of the regional cuisine from Occitanie in Southern France. Known for its rich history and diverse culinary influences, Occitanie offers a unique blend of flavors that are perfectly captured in this tarte. Historically, this dish celebrates the bounty of the harvest season, utilizing ingredients that are abundant in the region.
Originally, the tarte was made by families during the harvest season as a way to combine seasonal vegetables and aromatic herbs, often enjoyed during festive gatherings. It embodies the essence of rustic French cooking, where simplicity meets the richness of natural ingredients.
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry (1 sheet)
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
- Onion (1 large, sliced)
- Zucchini (1 medium, sliced)
- Bell Pepper (1, sliced)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Thyme (1 teaspoon fresh, chopped)
- Rosemary (1 teaspoon fresh, chopped)
- Goat Cheese (100g, crumbled)
- Egg (1, beaten)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
Preparation
Before you begin preparing the Occitanie Harvest Tarte, make sure that all ingredients are prepped and ready. Having everything in place will streamline the cooking process and ensure that the tarte comes together smoothly.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sautée until translucent. Next, add the zucchini and bell pepper slices. Cook until they begin to soften, approximately 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic, and cook for another minute or until fragrant, ensuring that the garlic does not burn.
Step 2: Season the Vegetables
Season the vegetable mixture with thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and set aside to cool slightly.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Prepare the Pastry
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Roll out the puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Crimp the edges to form a slight border. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork to avoid puffing during baking.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly over the prepared pastry. Sprinkle goat cheese over the top. Brush the edges of the pastry with a beaten egg to achieve a golden-brown finish. Bake the tarte in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, allow the Occitanie Harvest Tarte to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or as part of a larger meal. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent option for picnics or gatherings.
Pair the tarte with a crisp green salad or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and elegant meal. The combination of the creamy goat cheese, the sweetness of the onion and bell peppers, along with the earthy herbs, will surely delight your taste buds.
For more recipes like this and tips on regional cooking, explore more of our culinary adventures in the heart of Southern France. Happy cooking and bon appétit!