Appetizer > Tart > Cheese Tarts

Canastra Cheese and Tomato Tart Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup Canastra cheese, grated
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch tart pan
- Parchment paper

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pre-made pie crust and place it in the tart pan, pressing it down and trimming the edges.
3. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and minced garlic.
6. Brush the garlic oil over the bottom of the crust.
7. Sprinkle the grated Canastra cheese over the garlic oil.
8. Arrange the sliced tomatoes over the cheese in a single layer.
9. Sprinkle the chopped basil over the tomatoes.
10. Season the tart with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the tart cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 250mg
Sugar: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Canastra cheese can be substituted with any other hard, salty cheese such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil or other fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano.

Variations:
- Add sliced onions or roasted red peppers to the tart for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a different flavor profile.
- Add cooked bacon or prosciutto for a meaty twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pre-bake the crust before adding the toppings to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the tomatoes thinly and evenly.
- Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the tart in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the tart on a decorative platter or cutting board for a rustic look.

Garnishes:
Garnish the tart with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Pairings:
Pair the tart with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus with garlic and lemon
- Grilled zucchini with Parmesan cheese

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, try grating it more finely or using a different type of cheese.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.

Food history:
Canastra cheese is a traditional Brazilian cheese made from cow's milk. It is known for its salty, tangy flavor and crumbly texture.

Flavor profiles:
Salty, tangy, savory

Serving suggestions:
Serve the tart as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as an appetizer for a party or gathering.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Portuguese

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Rich, Creamy, Aromatic