Savory Zucchini and Bacon Tart

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This Savory Zucchini and Bacon Tart is a mouthwatering dish that blends the savory flavors of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh zucchini on a buttery, flaky crust. Topped with Parmesan and a creamy garlic sauce, this tart is the perfect balance of rich and light flavors. It’s ideal for a special brunch, a light dinner, or as an appetizer for a gathering.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 45 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour

  • Yield: 6-8 servings

  • Cuisine: Savory Tart, Comfort Food

Full List of Ingredients

  • For the Tart Crust:

    • 1 portion of dough (store-bought or homemade)

    • Butter, for greasing

  • For the Filling:

    • 1/2 cup cream cheese (room temperature)

    • 1 teaspoon dried basil

    • 4 slices of bacon, chopped

    • Salt, to taste

    • 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced

    • 1 bunch spring onions, finely chopped

    • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

    • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

    • 1 medium onion, chopped

    • 1 tablespoon butter

    • 1 teaspoon sugar

    • 1 egg yolk

  • For the Creamy Sauce:

    • 1 tablespoon cream cheese

    • 1/2 cup cream

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

    • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom

    • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Tart Dough:

Start by rolling out your tart dough on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using store-bought dough, simply press it into a greased tart pan. Make sure the dough fits evenly in the pan and up the sides. Bake the dough at 170°C (340°F) for about 10 minutes to set the crust.

2. Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables:

While the crust is baking, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the thinly sliced zucchini and spring onions to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the Creamy Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream cheese, shredded cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add the sugar and egg yolk to the mixture and beat until smooth. Add the cooked vegetables and bacon to the bowl and stir gently to combine.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

In a small saucepan, combine cream cheese, cream, and minced garlic. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the lemon zest, cardamom, and cinnamon to the sauce, mixing well.

5. Assemble the Tart:

Once the crust is done pre-baking, pour the filling mixture into the tart shell. Spread it out evenly and top with a little extra Parmesan cheese for an added cheesy finish.

6. Bake the Tart:

Place the assembled tart back in the oven and bake at 170°C (340°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.

7. Serve:

Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving. You can garnish the tart with fresh basil and a drizzle of the creamy sauce if desired. Serve warm with a side of crisp salad or a cup of your favorite tea.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal

  • Fat: 24g

  • Saturated Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 25g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 4g

  • Protein: 12g

  • Sodium: 600mg

Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Tarts like this Savory Zucchini and Bacon Tart are inspired by French and Mediterranean cuisine, where savory pies and quiches are a staple of the dining table. This recipe is a delicious way to incorporate fresh vegetables like zucchini into a comforting, cheesy dish, making it perfect for any meal, whether a light lunch or a fancy dinner.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Cheesy and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, shredded cheese, and Parmesan creates a rich, cheesy filling that’s irresistible.

  2. Savory and Hearty: The bacon and veggies provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture, making every bite satisfying.

  3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a weeknight meal, this tart is sure to impress.

Health Benefits

  • Zucchini: A great source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, zucchini supports heart health and helps improve digestion.

  • Bacon: While rich in protein, bacon should be consumed in moderation, but it does provide essential vitamins like B12.

  • Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic may help reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Salad: Serve the tart with a refreshing green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

  • As an Appetizer: This tart makes an excellent starter at a dinner party.

  • For Brunch: Serve this savory tart with fresh fruit, a pot of tea, and some light pastries for a complete brunch spread.

Cooking Tips

  • Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini will give a nice texture and vibrant color to the tart.

  • Crisp the Bacon First: Ensure the bacon is crispy before adding it to the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

  • Let the Tart Cool: Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing to help it set and maintain its shape.

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add more veggies, such as mushrooms or spinach, for a vegetarian version.

  • Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free tart shell or make a crustless version for a gluten-free alternative.

Conclusion

This Savory Zucchini and Bacon Tart is a flavorful, cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with savory goodness. Whether you enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or appetizer, this tart will become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor the rich flavors and textures in every bite!

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the tart ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use other vegetables in place of zucchini?
Absolutely! You can swap zucchini for mushrooms, spinach, or even eggplant.

3. Can I make this tart without cheese?
Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version, but the cheese adds richness and flavor.

4. Can I freeze this tart?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tart before baking. Just bake it from frozen when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I make this tart vegetarian?
Yes, simply leave out the bacon and add more vegetables for a vegetarian version.

6. Can I add more herbs to the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for added flavor.

7. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

8. Can I add meat to this tart?
Yes, ground chicken, sausage, or turkey would work well in place of the bacon.

9. How can I make the crust more flavorful?
Add garlic powder, herbs, or Parmesan to the crust for extra flavor.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free tart shell or make a crustless version for a gluten-free alternative

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