This puff pastry tart is a deliciously crispy dish loaded with the flavors of zucchini, bacon, and Parmesan, balanced with a zesty mustard-lemon glaze. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, it’s an easy yet impressive recipe that pairs well with fresh salads or a bowl of soup.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 800 g (28 oz) puff pastry
- 100 g (1 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 150 g (5.3 oz) bacon, diced
- 10 g (2 cloves) garlic, minced
- 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 20 g (1 tbsp) mustard
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 g (½ tsp) salt
- 1 g (¼ tsp) black pepper
- 200 ml (¾ cup) vegetable oil
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit your baking tray.
- Thinly slice the zucchini and dice the bacon.
- Prepare the Tart Base
- Place the puff pastry on a lined baking tray.
- Prick the surface lightly with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Assemble the Tart
- Spread mustard evenly over the puff pastry base.
- Sprinkle half the Parmesan cheese over the mustard layer.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in an even layer.
- Scatter diced bacon, garlic, and chili pepper over the zucchini.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prepare the Egg Wash
- Beat the eggs and mix them with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg mixture for a golden finish.
- Bake the Tart
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Finish and Serve
- Drizzle vegetable oil lightly over the tart for added shine and flavor.
- Slice into squares or rectangles and serve warm.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup.
- Top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch option.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on each slice.
- Enjoy with a refreshing glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mandoline for evenly sliced zucchini for better presentation and even cooking.
- Partially cook the bacon before adding it to the tart for extra crispiness.
- Avoid overloading the tart with toppings to ensure the puff pastry stays crispy.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- For a spicier kick, add more chili pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini is low in calories and rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
- Parmesan provides calcium and protein.
- The combination of eggs and bacon offers additional protein for a satisfying meal.
Dietary Information
- Not suitable for vegetarians due to the bacon.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free puff pastry.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
- Freezing is not recommended as the puff pastry may lose its crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal prep work.
- Crispy, flaky puff pastry combined with savory toppings is always a hit.
- Customizable with additional vegetables or spices.
- Great for entertaining or a cozy family meal.
Conclusion
This puff pastry zucchini tart is a perfect combination of crispy, savory, and mildly spicy flavors. It’s versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Whether served as a main course or a shareable appetizer, this tart is a surefire way to elevate any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, mozzarella, feta, or Gruyère work well as substitutes. - Can I make this tart vegetarian?
Absolutely, just skip the bacon or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. - Can I prepare the tart in advance?
You can assemble the tart up to 4 hours in advance and bake it when ready. - What can I use instead of mustard?
Pesto or cream cheese can be used as a flavorful alternative. - Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, using pre-cooked bacon will reduce the cooking time slightly. - How do I ensure the puff pastry stays crispy?
Avoid overloading with toppings and serve immediately after baking. - Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, thaw it according to the package instructions before use. - Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Try adding thinly sliced eggplant, tomatoes, or mushrooms. - How do I prevent the tart from becoming soggy?
Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels before assembling. - Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, olive oil adds a nice Mediterranean flavor to the tart.