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The delicate combination of tender zucchini and creamy goat cheese transforms a simple tart into an irresistible culinary creation. This recipe captures the essence of Mediterranean summer cooking, when garden-fresh zucchini reaches its peak flavor. Each bite delivers authentic, fresh flavors that perfectly complement each other.
The precision in each preparation step is what makes this tart consistently excellent. The combination of ingredients creates a sophisticated yet approachable dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients
* Goat Cheese - A 3oz creamy goat cheese log works best for its smooth texture and mild flavor. Let it come to room temperature for easier handling
* Zucchini - Select two medium, firm zucchini around 8 inches long. Farm-fresh or farmers market zucchini offer the best flavor, especially in summer
* Puff Pastry - Use all-butter puff pastry for the crispiest results. Store-bought artisanal pastry works perfectly
* Onion - One mild yellow onion provides a subtle aromatic base without overpowering the goat cheese
* Eggs - Three room temperature eggs for a perfectly creamy custard filling
* Heavy Cream - 2/3 cup of cream creates the ideal texture when baked
Detailed Instructions
- 1. Initial Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F using convection if available. Thinly slice the onion and cut zucchini into 1/8-inch rounds for even cooking.
- 2. Cooking the Vegetables
- Heat quality olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering. Cook zucchini slices in a single layer until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Cook onions until translucent and slightly caramelized.
- 3. Making the Custard
- Whisk eggs with heavy cream until smooth and slightly airy. A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg enhances the cheese flavors beautifully.
- 4. Preparing the Crust
- Roll pastry into an 11-inch tart pan, dock well with a fork. Line with parchment and pie weights, then blind bake for 10 minutes at 350°F.
Fresh herbs from the garden add wonderful aromatic notes to the finished tart.
Assembly Technique
Arrange zucchini slices in an overlapping pattern, distributing goat cheese evenly between layers for balanced flavor in every bite.
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Perfect Baking
Watch for light golden browning on top. Test doneness by inserting a knife in the center - it should come out clean.
This zucchini and goat cheese tart embodies modern Mediterranean cooking - simple yet refined, light yet satisfying. It brings together the best of seasonal produce with traditional French cheese-making in a dish that's perfect for sharing.
Recipe Tips
- → How should I store the tart?
- Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can enjoy it chilled or slightly warm.
- → Can I freeze this tart?
- Definitely! Store it in the freezer, thaw in the fridge, and warm it up in the oven.
- → How can I make this tart gluten-free?
- Swap the crust with a store-bought gluten-free option or try a homemade gluten-free dough.
- → What are some variation tips?
- Switch the zucchini with vegetables like spinach, peppers, or even mushrooms for a fun twist.
- → What pairs well with this tart?
- Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or seasonal roasted veggies.