This Leek and Cheese Puff Pastry Tart is a savory, delicious dish perfect for a light dinner, lunch, or even a fancy appetizer. The caramelized leeks, bell peppers, and cheese are encased in flaky puff pastry, brushed with egg yolk for a beautiful golden finish. This simple yet flavorful tart is easy to prepare and makes for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 800g (28.21 oz) leek, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (red or yellow)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing the dough)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 1 egg white
- 200g (7.05 oz) cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta), grated
For the Puff Pastry:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (400g total), thawed if frozen
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and chopped leek. Fry for 10-15 minutes until the leeks are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Add the grated carrot and chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the filling mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- Add 1 egg white and 200g grated cheese to the mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Puff Pastry Tart
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Prepare the puff pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets if needed to fit your baking tray.
- Lay the first sheet of puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top with the second pastry sheet:
- Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the filling. Press down along the edges to seal the tart.
- Brush with egg yolk and add cheese:
- Brush the top of the puff pastry with the egg yolk for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top for extra flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Tart
- Bake in the preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove from the oven and allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm as a light meal, appetizer, or side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting lunch.
- Pair with a side of grilled vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy topping.
- Serve with a chilled white wine for an elegant appetizer.
Cooking Tips:
- Cook the leeks slowly to caramelize them and bring out their sweetness.
- Use room temperature puff pastry for easier handling and better baking results.
- Brush the edges well with egg yolk for a nice golden crust.
- Seal the edges of the tart to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Add extra cheese on top for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in fiber from leeks and bell peppers, promoting healthy digestion.
- Good source of protein from eggs and cheese, aiding muscle repair.
- Contains vitamins A and C from carrots and bell peppers, supporting immune health.
- Healthy fats from olive oil, beneficial for heart health.
- Low in sugar, making it suitable for a balanced diet.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat.
- Contains dairy from cheese; substitute with dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
- Contains gluten from puff pastry; can use gluten-free puff pastry if needed.
- Nut-free, suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Customizable filling allows for additional vegetables or flavorings.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through and crispy.
- Freeze: Wrap the baked tart in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and quick: Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Cheesy and flavorful: The combination of vegetables and cheese is savory and satisfying.
- Versatile dish: Can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Kid-friendly: A great way to sneak more veggies into a family meal.
- Elegant presentation: Perfect as an appetizer or main dish for guests.
Conclusion:
This Leek and Cheese Puff Pastry Tart is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of tender, caramelized vegetables, melty cheese, and flaky puff pastry makes it a comforting meal for any time of day. Serve it warm with a side salad or enjoy it as a fancy appetizer for guests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables for the filling?
Yes, you can use zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for a different flavor profile. - Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the tart ahead of time and bake when ready to serve. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feta, goat cheese, or gruyère would work well in this recipe. - How do I make this gluten-free?
Substitute gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version of this tart. - Can I make this tart dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and dairy-free puff pastry for a lactose-free option