Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart

Are you looking for a delectable savory tart that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese? Look no further! This recipe for a Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart is the perfect dish to impress your guests or enjoy as a delightful meal. With a flaky pastry crust, sweet and savory caramelized onions, and tangy goat cheese, this tart is a true culinary delight. Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

For the pastry crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the caramelized onions:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the filling:

• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pastry crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Caramelize the onions

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. Sprinkle the brown sugar, salt, and black pepper over the onions and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat the oven and prepare the filling

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Add the crumbled goat cheese, fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Assemble and bake the tart

Roll out the chilled pastry crust on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the crust. Pour the goat cheese and egg mixture over the onions, ensuring it spreads evenly. Place the tart on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.

Step 5:Add finishing touches and serve

Once the tart is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. The tart can be served warm or at room temperature. Slice it into wedges and serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a light main course alongside a fresh salad.

Variations

This Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Add roasted garlic:

For a more intense flavor, roast a few cloves of garlic and add them to the caramelized onions before assembling the tart. The roasted garlic will complement the sweetness of the onions and the tanginess of the goat cheese perfectly.

2. Incorporate fresh herbs:

Experiment with different herbs to add a burst of freshness to your tart. Besides thyme, you can try rosemary, basil, or even a combination of herbs to enhance the overall flavor profile.

3. Include a layer of sliced tomatoes:

If you want to introduce a touch of acidity and freshness, layer some thinly sliced tomatoes over the caramelized onions before adding the goat cheese mixture. This addition adds color and a delightful juiciness to the tart.

Conclusion

The Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart is a culinary masterpiece that combines sweet caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, and a buttery flaky crust. Its burst of flavors and contrasting textures make it an impressive dish for any occasion. By following the simple steps and experimenting with variations, you can create a tantalizing tart that will leave your taste buds craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of savory goodness!