This cottage cheese and crème fraîche fillo tart is a delightful and savory dish, perfect for a light meal or appetizer. The crispy fillo pastry combined with the creamy, cheesy filling creates a deliciously unique flavor and texture.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total: 60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500g (2 cups) cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons crème fraîche
- Salt, to taste
- 400g (14 oz) fillo tart leaves
- 100g (7 tablespoons) melted butter
- 1 egg, for basting
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine 500g of cottage cheese, 3 eggs, and 2 tablespoons of crème fraîche.
- Add salt to taste and mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Fillo Tart:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lay out the fillo tart leaves and brush each one with melted butter.
- Layer the buttered fillo tart leaves in a tart or pie dish, ensuring they cover the bottom and sides of the dish.
- Add the Filling:
- Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the fillo-lined tart dish.
- Spread the mixture evenly.
- Baste and Bake:
- Beat the remaining egg and use it to baste the top of the tart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Serve:
- Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Enjoy the tart warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- With Wine: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for an elegant appetizer.
- Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of crème fraîche on top for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips:
- Crispy Texture: Ensure the fillo pastry is well buttered to achieve a crispy texture.
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling the fillo tart leaves to prevent tearing.
- Setting: Let the tart cool slightly before cutting to allow the filling to set.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cottage Cheese: High in protein and calcium, beneficial for muscle and bone health.
- Eggs: Provide essential vitamins and high-quality protein.
- Crème Fraîche: Adds a creamy texture and contains beneficial fats.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Low-Carb: Contains lower carbohydrates compared to traditional tarts.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or enjoy cold.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and quick preparation.
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cottage cheese and crème fraîche is rich and satisfying.
- Crispy Texture: The fillo tart leaves provide a delightful crunch.
- Versatile: Perfect for brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer.
Conclusion:
This cottage cheese and crème fraîche fillo tart is a wonderfully savory and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The crispy fillo pastry and creamy filling make it a delightful treat that will impress your guests and family. Enjoy this versatile and delicious tart warm or at room temperature!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
- Yes, ricotta can be a great substitute for cottage cheese in this recipe.
- What if I don’t have crème fraîche?
- You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
- How can I prevent the fillo pastry from drying out while working with it?
- Keep the fillo pastry covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out.
- Can I make this tart ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the tart and bake it just before serving. Alternatively, you can bake it and reheat it before serving.
- What other fillings can I add to this tart?
- You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free fillo pastry if available.
- How can I make the tart more flavorful?
- Add herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley to the filling for added flavor.
- Can I use frozen fillo pastry?
- Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before using.
- How do I know when the tart is fully baked?
- The tart is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is set and firm to the touch.
- Can I serve this tart cold?
- Yes, this tart can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or cold.