Looking for a deliciously easy dish that will impress your family and friends? Dive into the world of savory indulgence with our Pimiento Cheese Vegetable Tart! This delightful tart combines the creamy richness of pimiento cheese with colorful, fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect as a main course or a stunning appetizer, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to steal the show at your next gathering. Read on to discover how to create this irresistible tart that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup pimiento cheese
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, etc.)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cool.
- Carefully unfold the puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet, gently smoothing out any creases.
- Using a sharp knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges of the pastry, creating a rectangular frame without cutting completely through.
- Spread the pimiento cheese evenly across the inner rectangle of the pastry, leaving the border clear.
- Wash and slice the mixed vegetables into thin, uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Arrange the sliced vegetables artfully over the pimiento cheese layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Season the vegetables with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Brush the exposed pastry border with the beaten egg, which will help create a golden, shiny crust.
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or chives before serving.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor and texture, select a variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Feel free to experiment with your favorites or whatever you have on hand!
- Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Make sure to thaw your puff pastry at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This ensures it’s pliable enough to work with while still being cool, which helps it puff up beautifully in the oven.
- Score the Edges Lightly: When scoring the pastry, be careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a raised border that will puff up during baking, giving your tart a lovely presentation.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! A sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavors of the vegetables and complements the creamy pimiento cheese.
- Golden Finish: Brushing the pastry border with beaten egg not only adds a beautiful golden color but also gives it a delightful shine. It’s the finishing touch that makes your tart look professionally made!
- Garnish for Flavor and Aesthetics: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or chives as a garnish before serving. They not only add a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
- Serve Warm: This tart is best enjoyed warm, so try to serve it shortly after baking. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, you can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its flaky texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
