Provence Sunshine Tart

Introduction to Provence Sunshine Tart

The Provence Sunshine Tart is a delightful dish inspired by the flavors of southeastern France. This tart captures the essence of Provencal cuisine, characterized by its use of fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs. Born out of a passion for sun-ripened produce and a love for vibrant culinary traditions, this tart is a testament to the rich history and cultural influence of the Provence region. Its bright colors and robust flavors reflect the sun-kissed landscape of Southern France, offering a culinary escape with each bite.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Unsalted Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and diced
• Egg - 1 large
• Cold Water - 2 to 4 tablespoons
• Olive Oil - 1 tablespoon
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Zucchini - 1 large, sliced
• Yellow Bell Pepper - 1, chopped
• Tomato - 2, sliced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Herbes de Provence - 2 teaspoons
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Goat Cheese - 4 oz, crumbled
• Fresh Basil - for garnish

Preparation

Making the Tart Crust

To start the preparation of the Provence Sunshine Tart, begin with the crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the diced unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat the egg with cold water and gradually add it to the dough, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the zucchini and yellow bell pepper, cooking until they are tender about 5-7 minutes. Add the tomato slices, herbes de Provence, and season with salt and black pepper.

Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled tart dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Trim the excess dough and pierce the base with a fork to prevent bubbling. Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes. After the crust has been pre-baked, fill it with the prepared vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the goat cheese over the vegetables and return the tart to the oven. Bake for another 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Set your cooking timer to keep track of this phase.

How to Enjoy the Provence Sunshine Tart

Allow the Provence Sunshine Tart to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and color. This tart is perfect as a main course paired with a crisp, green salad or as a savory addition to a brunch spread. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Provence in every slice, whether served warm or at room temperature. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy goat cheese, and fragrant herbs makes this tart a memorable dish that embodies the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine.