Introduction
Leek and broccoli tart is a delightful vegetarian dish that beautifully combines the earthy flavors of leeks with the vibrant crunch of broccoli. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, served as a side, or as an elegant starter. The creamy filling, paired with a buttery crust, creates a satisfying meal that is both healthy and delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pie crust
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 200 grams of broccoli, cut into small florets
– 3 large eggs
– 200 ml of cream (or milk)
– 100 grams of grated cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Prep Time
The preparation time for this tart is approximately 20 minutes. This includes slicing the leeks, preparing the broccoli, and assembling the ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the leek and broccoli tart is around 35-40 minutes. The total time, including preparation and cooking, is about 60 minutes. This recipe yields one tart, which can serve 4-6 people, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or family meals.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing the broccoli and leeks thoroughly. Cut the broccoli into small florets and slice the leeks into thin rounds, discarding the tough green parts.
Step 2: Pre-cook the Broccoli
In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Cook the Leeks
In a pan, heat a bit of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté them for about 8-10 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Prepare the Pastry
Roll out your pastry dough on a floured surface and place it in a tart pan. Trim any excess dough from the edges and poke the bottom with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
Step 5: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed leeks, cooked broccoli, eggs, and cream. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs.
Step 6: Assemble the Tart
Pour the vegetable mixture into the prepared pastry crust, spreading it evenly. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while the tart rests.
Step 7: Bake the Tart
Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Note 1: Variations
Feel free to add cheese such as feta or grated parmesan to enhance the flavor of the tart.
Note 2: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven prior to serving.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This tart pairs well with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Blind Baking
Blind baking is a technique where the pie crust is pre-baked before filling it with ingredients. This ensures that the crust becomes crisp and does not become soggy from the filling.
Steaming Vegetables
Steaming is a gentle cooking method that preserves the color, nutrients, and texture of vegetables. For the leeks and broccoli, steaming helps maintain their vibrant color and nutritional value.
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of fat over high heat. This technique is perfect for caramelizing the leeks, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
Egg Mixture Preparation
Preparing the egg mixture involves whisking eggs with cream or milk, which creates a custard-like filling. This step is crucial for the creamy texture of the tart.
Layering Ingredients
Layering ingredients properly in the tart enhances the presentation and ensures even distribution of flavors. Start with the sautéed leeks, followed by the broccoli, and top with the egg mixture.
Baking
Baking the assembled tart at the right temperature and time ensures that the crust becomes golden brown while the filling sets beautifully, resulting in a delicious final dish.
FAQ
What type of crust is best for this tart?
A shortcrust pastry is ideal for this tart as it provides a sturdy base and a delicious buttery flavor.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the tart.
How can I ensure my tart crust is not soggy?
Blind baking the crust before adding the filling helps prevent it from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for cream in the egg mixture?
You can substitute cream with milk, vegetable broth, or non-dairy milk, depending on your dietary preferences.
How do I know when the tart is fully cooked?
The tart is fully cooked when the crust is golden brown and the filling has set, which usually takes around 30-40 minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
The tarte aux poireaux et brocolis is a delightful and healthy dish that perfectly combines the flavors of leeks and broccoli. Its flaky crust and creamy filling make it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of these vegetables but also offers a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Whether served warm or cold, this tart is sure to please both family and guests alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Feta Quiche
This quiche blends the earthiness of spinach with the tangy flavor of feta cheese, creating a savory dish that pairs well with a crisp salad.
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tart
A delightful combination of sautéed mushrooms and creamy goat cheese, this tart offers a rich and satisfying option for any meal occasion.
Roasted Vegetable Galette
Featuring an array of seasonal roasted vegetables wrapped in a rustic pastry, this galette highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of the veggies.
Cauliflower and Cheddar Pie
This comforting pie combines tender cauliflower with sharp cheddar cheese, resulting in a rich and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings.
Leek and Potato Soup
A classic soup that showcases leeks and potatoes, this dish is creamy and warming, making it a soothing option for a light lunch or starter.