Rustic Tomato Tart

This Rustic Tomato Tart is a delicious blend of flaky spelt pastry, tangy tomato passata, and caramelized onions, topped with vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s the perfect dish for showcasing fresh ingredients, offering a balance of crisp, creamy, and savory flavors.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 250g spelt flour
• 125g salted butter
• 1 egg yolk
• 35ml water

For the Filling:

• 2 eggs
• 80g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 150g tomato passata
• 2 large onions, sliced into rounds
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt, to taste

For the Toppings:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves
• Homemade pesto (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Make the Pastry:
   • In a powerful mixer, combine the spelt flour and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water. Slowly pour this liquid into the mixer while blending until the dough comes together.
   • Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 1 hour.
2. Pre-Bake the Pastry:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Roll out the dough and place it in a tart tray, trimming any excess dough from the edges.
   • Add a layer of parchment paper over the dough and fill it with dried beans or rice to prevent it from rising.
   • Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the beans or rice and set the tart shell aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan, and tomato passata until well combined.
   • In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook until caramelized and soft, about 10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Tart:
   • Spread a thin layer of tapenade (optional) on the base of the pre-baked tart.
   • Add the caramelized onions as the first layer, then pour in the tomato passata mixture.
   • Arrange cherry tomatoes on top and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with homemade pesto.
5. Bake the Tart:
   • Return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are golden.

Serving and Tips

This tart is best served warm with a side salad or as part of a brunch spread. It’s also a beautiful dish for entertaining, as it looks just as impressive as it tastes.

Health Benefits

• Spelt Flour: Rich in fiber and nutrients, it’s a great alternative to refined white flour.
• Tomatoes: High in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
• Onions: Provide prebiotics that promote gut health and digestion.

This Rustic Tomato Tart is a wonderful way to bring fresh, wholesome ingredients together in a simple yet sophisticated dish. Perfect for showcasing your favorite produce! 🍅✨