If you’re on the hunt for a dish that perfectly balances elegance and comfort, look no further than the Golden Sweet Onion Tart with Gruyere and Herbs. This delightful tart features a buttery, flaky crust filled with sweet, caramelized onions and rich Gruyere cheese, enhanced by the fresh flavors of thyme and chives. Every bite exudes warmth and sophistication, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering or an indulgent treat for a cozy night in.
The allure of this savory tart lies not only in its incredible flavor profile but also in its versatility. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, this tart is as perfect for brunch as it is for a light dinner or even an appetizer at a fancy gathering. The combination of the savory onions, the creamy Gruyere, and the fragrant herbs creates a symphony of tastes that will surely impress anyone who has the pleasure of enjoying it.
Moreover, making the pastry from scratch may seem daunting, but it is surprisingly straightforward. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wonderfully flaky crust that serves as the perfect foundation for the luscious filling. So, roll up your sleeves and embark on this culinary adventure to create a dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Golden Sweet Onion Tart
- Elegant Flavors: The harmonious blend of caramelized sweet onions and Gruyère creates a deep, savory flavor that’s irresistible.
- Simple to Make: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this tart is made with straightforward techniques that yield delicious results.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm for dinner or at room temperature for a brunch—this tart is suitable for any occasion.
- Fresh Herbs: The addition of thyme and chives brings vibrant freshness that complements the richness of the cheese perfectly.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delicious world of tarts, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized. This recipe calls for both a food processor and a rolling pin, so having these handy will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
For baking, you will need parchment paper and a sheet pan to line your tart. A sharp knife will come in handy for thinly slicing the sweet onions, and a pastry brush will allow you to easily brush the cream over your onion arrangement. Having all these tools ready will help streamline your baking journey!
Ingredients
- For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 12 tbsp cold unsalted butter, diced
- ½ cup ice water
- For the Topping:
- 1¼ lbs sweet onions (about 3 medium), thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, diced
- 1½ tsp fresh thyme, minced
- 2 tsp fresh chives, minced
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
Step 1: Making the Dough
Begin by preparing the tart dough. In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and kosher salt, pulsing them together until well mixed. Next, add the cold, diced unsalted butter into the processor. Pulse it in until the butter pieces reach a pea-size texture, which is crucial for creating that dreamy, flaky crust. Slowly drizzle the ice water while pulsing the mixture, stopping when the dough begins to come together.
Take the dough out and shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour. Chilling is important as it allows the gluten to relax and the butter to solidify, ensuring that your tart will have the ideal texture.
Step 2: Prepping the Tart Shell
Once the dough has chilled, it’s time to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking pan. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Next, roll out the dough on a floured surface between two sheets of wax paper until it’s slightly larger than your tart or pie pan. This prevents the dough from sticking to the rolling surface. Trim the edges for a clean finish, then carefully transfer it to your prepared pan. Chill again for about 15 minutes.
Step 3: Adding the Toppings
With your tart shell ready, it’s time to fill it with the delicious toppings. Start by sprinkling a layer of Gruyère cheese evenly over the base. This oozy cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a wonderful texture. Follow this by scattering the minced thyme and chives, enhancing the tart with their aromatic flavors.
Now, layer the thinly sliced sweet onions in overlapping diagonal lines on top of the cheese and herbs. Be generous! Next, brush the layered onions lightly with heavy cream, ensuring they get a nice glossy finish. Dot the surface with diced butter, which will melt into the onions as it bakes, and sprinkle kosher salt to enhance the overall flavor.
Step 4: Baking the Tart
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake it for approximately 40 minutes or until the onions are tender and the crust is golden brown. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them lightly with foil. Once baked, let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing it to serve. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to cut perfect slices.
Variations
- Protein: You can add cooked bacon, prosciutto, or even sautéed mushrooms for an extra flavor boost.
- Vegetables: Try adding a layer of sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for a colorful twist.
- Spices: A pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can give a spicy kick to the tart.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to slice the onions thinly for even caramelization, which enhances the sweetness of the flavors.
- If Gruyère is unavailable, Emmental or a sharp cheddar can be used as substitutes without compromising much on the taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a light salad dressed in a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tart.
- A crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the flavors of the onions and cheese.
Tips
- For an extra flaky crust, consider freezing the butter before dicing it and using cold utensils while working with the dough.
- Feel free to prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the fridge, making the overall cooking process quicker on the day of serving.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 320 per slice
- Protein: About 7g
- Sodium: Approximately 420mg
FAQs
Can I make the tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tart a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for the best taste.
What can I serve with the tart?
This tart pairs wonderfully with a light salad or soup. A glass of white wine can also elevate the dining experience.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover tart can be covered with plastic wrap and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal texture.
Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tart. Cover it well and consume within 2 months for the best quality.
Conclusion
The Golden Sweet Onion Tart with Gruyere and Herbs is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for family or impressing guests at a gathering, this savory tart shines as a culinary star. Its flavorful filling, combined with a buttery, flaky crust, will keep you coming back for seconds. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations or serve it with your favorite sides. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe—share your experiences, tips, or any delicious twists you might have created in the comments below!
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Golden Sweet Onion Tart with Gruyere and Herbs
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This delightful tart features a buttery, flaky crust filled with sweet, caramelized onions and rich Gruyere cheese, enhanced by the fresh flavors of thyme and chives.
Ingredients
- For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 12 tbsp cold unsalted butter, diced
- ½ cup ice water
- For the Topping:
- 1¼ lbs sweet onions (about 3 medium), thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, diced
- 1½ tsp fresh thyme, minced
- 2 tsp fresh chives, minced
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the tart dough. In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and kosher salt, pulsing them together until well mixed. Next, add the cold, diced unsalted butter into the processor. Pulse it in until the butter pieces reach a pea-size texture, which is crucial for creating that dreamy, flaky crust. Slowly drizzle the ice water while pulsing the mixture, stopping when the dough begins to come together.
- Take the dough out and shape it into a ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour.
- Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking pan. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a floured surface between two sheets of wax paper until it’s slightly larger than your tart pan. Chill again for about 15 minutes.
- With your tart shell ready, fill it with the Gruyère cheese, minced thyme, and chives. Layer the thinly sliced sweet onions on top. Brush lightly with heavy cream, dot with diced butter, and sprinkle kosher salt.
- Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the onions are tender and the crust is golden brown. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
For an extra flaky crust, consider freezing the butter before dicing it and using cold utensils while working with the dough.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Protein: 7 g