How to Make a Satisfying Cheese and Onion Tart for Dinner
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dinner option that’s both easy to make and satisfying, a Cheese and Onion Tart is a fantastic choice. This dish combines the creamy, savory taste of cheese with the sweet and mild flavor of onions, all wrapped up in a crispy and buttery crust. Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this simple guide will help you whip up a delightful tart that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
-
3-4 tablespoons ice water
-
For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or any cheese you prefer)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Simple Steps to Make Your Tart:
1. Prepare the Tart Crust:
- Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold butter pieces, using your fingers or a pastry blender, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step ensures your crust will be flaky and delicious.
2. Roll and Shape the Crust:
- After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan, pressing it into the sides. Trim any excess dough and prick the bottom with a fork. Chill the crust in the freezer for about 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the chilled crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 20 minutes. Remove the weights and paper, then bake for another 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.
3. Cook the Onions:
- While the crust cools, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized. This could take about 15-20 minutes. The sweetness from the onions will be the soul of your tart.
4. Prepare the Cheese and Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix together the grated cheese, eggs, heavy cream, and thyme leaves if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The creamy mixture combined with cheese will bring everything together, creating a rich and gooey filling.
5. Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the baked tart crust. Pour the cheese and egg mixture over the onions. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden and slightly puffed.
- Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
This Cheese and Onion Tart can be served as a wholesome dinner on its own, or paired with a light salad for a complete meal. Its versatility also makes it a perfect dish for brunches or as an appetizer when entertaining guests.
Tips for Success:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions; cooking them slowly brings out their natural sweetness.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect flavor combination. A mixture of cheeses can also add depth to the tart.
- The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, so don’t worry about leftovers. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to produce mouth-watering results. This Cheese and Onion Tart is a testament to that, combining simple ingredients and straightforward techniques into a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Try making it for your next dinner, and watch it become a favorite in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!
