Are you in search of a delectable dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils and mushrooms with the decadence of cheese? Look no further! This Savory Lentil Mushroom Cheese Tart recipe will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Packed with nutrients and bursting with rich flavors, this tart is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, put on your apron and let’s get cooking!.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s ensure we have all the necessary ingredients:.
- 1 ½ cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ cup of cold butter, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon of ice water
- 1 cup of cooked lentils
- 1 cup of button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyere work well)
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prepare the Tart Crust
Start by making the tart crust:.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the ice water over the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, and gently mix until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan.
- Press the dough into the pan, trimming any excess from the edges.
- Poke the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Once done, set the crust aside to cool.
Sauté the Lentils and Mushrooms
While the tart crust is cooling, let’s prepare the savory filling:.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for a few minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Next, add the cooked lentils, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow the flavors to meld together for a few minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
For the creamy binding of the tart, let’s prepare the egg mixture:.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assembling the Tart
Now, it’s time to bring it all together:.
- Spread the sautéed lentil and mushroom mixture evenly over the pre-baked tart crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, creating an irresistible cheesy layer.
- Gently pour the egg mixture over the filling, ensuring it covers the entire tart evenly.
Bake and Serve
Our savory lentil mushroom cheese tart is nearly ready to be enjoyed:.
- Place the assembled tart in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish the tart with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Slice and serve the tart while still warm, savoring each mouthwatering bite.
Seize the Flavors of Savory Lentil Mushroom Cheese Tart
Indulge in the harmonious blend of savory lentils, earthy mushrooms, and creamy cheese in every bite of this delectable tart. This dish is not only a pleasure for the taste buds but also a wholesome and balanced meal.
Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various essential nutrients, making this tart a nutritious choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Plus, the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible.
Whether you serve it as a delightful appetizer, an entrée for brunch, or a satisfying dinner with a side salad, the savory lentil mushroom cheese tart is guaranteed to impress.
Its versatile nature makes it a fantastic addition to potlucks, picnics, or any gathering with loved ones. Prepare this delightful tart for any occasion and enjoy the praises it garners from everyone lucky enough to savor its flavors.