Caramelize the onions:
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until browned.
Add the sliced onions, cover, and cook over medium heat until they begin to brown nicely, stirring occasionally. Cooking the onions covered will allow them to caramelize faster by trapping the steam.
Once golden brown and soft, remove from heat and let cool.
Prepare the tart base:
Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
Roll out the puff pastry or shortcrust pastry and place it in a tart pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork to prevent uneven baking.
Assemble the tart:
Sprinkle 75g of grated cheese evenly over the pastry base.
Add a pinch of sage or another herb of your choice, if desired.
Sprinkle half of the cooled caramelized onions evenly over the cheese.
Drizzle 2 teaspoons of honey over the onions.
Add another 75g of grated cheese, followed by the remaining onions, concentrating them in the center and leaving the edges of the pastry free.
Drizzle another 2 teaspoons of honey over the top layer of onions.
Bake the tart:
Gently fold the edges of the pastry inward over the filling to create a rustic edge.
Bake the tart for 35–40 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Garnish and Serve:
Let the tart cool slightly before garnishing with fresh rosemary, parsley, chives, or leave it plain.
Slice and serve warm with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair it with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Serve as an appetizer for a dinner party or as part of a brunch buffet.
Cooking Tips
Let the onions cool before layering them on top of the pastry to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
Use high-quality honey for a richer, more nuanced flavor.
If you prefer a bolder flavor, goat cheese is a great alternative to mild cheeses.
Nutritional Value
Onions are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
Honey provides natural sweetness and has antibacterial properties.
Cheese adds protein and calcium to the dish.
Nutritional Information
Vegetarian
Can be made dairy-free by using vegan butter and plant-based cheese.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 6 slices)
Calories: 220
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fat: 11 g
Fiber: 2 g
Storage
Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Heat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Requires only a handful of ingredients and is quick to prepare.
Sweet and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect as a versatile dish for any time of day.
No eggs required, making it lighter and suitable for more diets.
Conclusion
This Caramelized Onion and Honey Tart is a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and buttery flavors. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks. Whether served as a light meal or an impressive appetizer, this tart is sure to earn a place among your favorite recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?
Yes, store-bought caramelized onions can save time and work well in this recipe.
Can I substitute puff pastry for shortcrust pastry?
Absolutely! Both work wonderfully, with puff pastry providing a lighter texture and shortcrust pastry providing a more stable base.
What other cheeses work in this recipe?
For different flavor profiles, Gruyère, feta, goat cheese, or even blue cheese can be used.
Can I make this pie vegan?
For a vegan version, use vegan puff pastry, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cheese.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes.
Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pie and refrigerate it up to 8 hours before baking.
Can I add more vegetables to the pie?
Thinly sliced zucchini or roasted red peppers make great side dishes.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore the crispness of the pastry.
Can I freeze the pie?
It tastes best fresh, but you can also freeze it after baking. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
What herbs go best with this pie?
Sage, rosemary, thyme, or oregano complement the flavors beautifully.
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