Savory Garden Tart

Introduction to Savory Garden Tart

The Savory Garden Tart is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh and vibrant flavors of a variety of vegetables. This tart is rooted in the rich tradition of French cuisine, particularly inspired by Provençal cooking, which emphasizes seasonal ingredients and simple preparations. Often served as a starter or as a main course, this tart celebrates the bounty of the garden.

The origins of tarts can be traced back to medieval times, where they were a staple dish in Europe. Sweet or savory, these open-faced pies were easy to make and adaptable to whatever ingredients were on hand. The Savory Garden Tart, however, is a more modern twist, incorporating the influences of a more vegetable-focused culinary scene.

Whether you're enjoying it for brunch or as an evening meal, the Savory Garden Tart is versatile and satisfying. Its crispy, flaky crust combined with the tender, flavorful filling makes it a beloved choice across many households. The use of fresh herbs and cheese only enhances its appeal, making each bite a homely reminder of the joys of cooking with the season's best produce.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 2 and 1/2 cups
• Unsalted butter - 1 cup (cold and diced)
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Ice water - 7 tablespoons
• Zucchini - 1 large, thinly sliced
• Red bell pepper - 1, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes - 1 cup, halved
• Artichoke hearts - 1 cup, quartered
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Fresh basil and thyme - 2 tablespoons each, chopped
• Goat cheese - 1/2 cup, crumbled
• Egg - 1 large, beaten
• Milk - 1/4 cup
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just begins to hold together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

3. Form the dough into a disk, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.

2. Add the zucchini, red bell pepper, and artichoke hearts. Cook until they are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil and thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Remove from heat and allow the vegetable mixture to cool slightly.

Assembly and Cooking

Assembling the Tart

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a cooking timer for 25 minutes.

2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.

3. Evenly spread the vegetable mixture over the base of the dough. Crumble the goat cheese on top.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour this over the filling in the tart.

Baking the Tart

1. Bake in preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set, about 25-30 minutes. Check your timer to ensure proper cooking time. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoying the Savory Garden Tart

This tart pairs beautifully with a light salad of mixed greens and a crisp white wine or sparkling water. Enjoy it warm for a comforting meal, or let it cool completely and serve as a refreshing summer dish. Its versatility makes it perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties.