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First of all, I want to start by telling you that in this article you will find a recipe for a cheese and leek tart that is similar to a pie, a tart, but also a quiche.
Basically, it’s a tart with a crispy top, this time a savory tart, which is perfectly complimented by the cheese and leek filling, but you can confidently use the same dough for a sweet tart as well, if you’re craving for a dessert with a creamy texture, but also crunchy, at the same time.
I chose to cook this cheese and leek tart recipe because I felt the need for a light meal, after all the traditional dishes prepared for the winter holidays. Therefore, a cheese and leek pie seemed the ideal option for a fresh dinner, but also a salty snack, which can easily be taken as a takeaway, if needed.
So, let’s discover together this delicious easy cheese and leek tart recipe.
How to make cheese and leek tart?
First of all, I want to confess that now I tried leek for the first time. Honestly, I didn’t know what this green vegetable tastes like, but it definitely makes you think of spring, although it is available almost all year round, in its fresh form.
I knew that it was a fairly common ingredient in French cuisine, even in Eastern Europe it is used in various recipes, but I had never used it and had no idea what it tasted like.
I tasted the leek before cooking it and I can honestly say that it is completely different from what I expected it to be. I say this because it seems like a very hard and rigid vegetable, at first sight. But, once you taste it, you realize that it is much more tender than green onions, for example. And regarding the taste, I would dare to say that it represents a perfect combination between the aroma of green onion and garlic. And I like both green onions and garlic, so for me leeks are, categorically, a delicious ingredient, which I will use again in the future, whenever I have the opportunity.
I saw many recipes that presented a kind of quiche with cheese, leek and ham, or chicken, but I chose to prepare the vegetarian version, only with cheese and leek, because I felt the need for a lighter dinner, with a fresh aroma, which would fit perfectly for this beginning of the year and is completely different from the loaded tables of the last period.
So, I recommend you to try this easy cheese and leek tart recipe, exactly as I cooked it, but if you want to add other ingredients, such as meat or ham, the final result will definitely be at least one just as good.
If you are a cheese lover and you are craving for an easy and salty dinner, you should also try the Homemade Oven-baked Mac and Cheese recipe.
Also, for a super easy and nourishing warm snack, feel free to try the Pan-Fried Cheese Pie recipe.
Tart or Quiche?
In the enchanting world of baked goods, where the aroma of buttery crusts and the allure of savory fillings reign supreme, two stars often steal the spotlight: the tart and the quiche. At first sight, these two delights might seem like distant cousins, sharing some family traits yet distinct in their personalities.
The comparison begins with the base – the crust. Tarts boast a crumbly, short crust pastry, often made with a classic pΓ’te brisΓ©e. This crust is akin to a canvas, firm and buttery, designed to hold its shape and offer a delightful contrast to the filling. Quiches, on the other hand, often feature a slightly richer crust, with a tad more heft to support their denser, custard-like filling. The quiche crust is a sturdy foundation, ensuring that every slice holds up to the luscious filling it cradles.
Moving next – the filling – tarts and quiches diverge on a delicious path. Tarts are versatile, playing well with both sweet and savory ingredients. A fruit tart, glistening with glazed berries or apples, is a testament to the tart’s ability to showcase the natural beauty and flavor of its contents. Savory tarts, like a classic tomato tart, balance the buttery crust with a lighter filling.
Quiches, the epitome of savory pies, are all about the creamy, custard-like filling made from a blend of eggs and dairy – often cream or milk. This rich mixture provides a sumptuous backdrop for a variety of ingredients, from the classic Lorraine with bacon and cheese to vegetable-packed varieties. The quiche is a celebration of richness and depth, a hearty dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
In the realm of dining occasions, tarts and quiches each have their moment to shine. Tarts, with their elegant appearance, are perfect for high teas, garden parties, or as a chic dessert option. They’re about finesse and flair, a delicate addition to any table. Quiches, with their comforting and hearty nature, are ideal for a fulfilling brunch, a cozy dinner, or as a make-ahead meal that only gets better with time.
So, whether you choose the refined elegance of a tart or the comforting embrace of a quiche, both dishes offer a journey through textures and flavors that are bound to delight. As a food enthusiast, embracing the unique qualities of each can add a touch of sophistication or comfort to your culinary experiences. With that being said, the next time you’re in your kitchen, pondering whether to go for a tart or a quiche, remember: it’s not just about baking a dish; it’s about crafting an experience.
Is cheese and leek pie healthy?
I consider that cheese and leek pie is a healthy dish. Besides the fact that is a light meal, that can be server as a starter, a savory snack or a fresh tart, this pie is also kids friendly, since it has NO SUGGAR, and the dough and the filling are fresh and made of natural ingredients.
Moreover, the filling of a cheese and leek tart made from leeks, cheese and heavy cream are important parts of a healthy, balanced diet.
Letβs analyze the benefits of consuming leeks and dairy products, especially for kids development.
In the diverse world of vegetables, leeks hold a special place with their subtle flavor and impressive nutritional profile. These long, green members of the onion family are not just a culinary delight but also a boon for health, particularly for growing children.
Leeks are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for child development. They are an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in bone health and blood clotting. This is particularly important for active children, whose bones are constantly developing. Leeks also contain a good amount of vitamin A, essential for healthy vision and immune function.
The high fiber content in leeks is beneficial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements, which is crucial for children as they develop lifelong eating habits. A healthy gut is also linked to improved nutrient absorption, ensuring that children get the most out of the foods they eat.
Leeks are a good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system. This is especially important for children, who are often exposed to various germs and viruses in school and play environments. Regular consumption of leeks can help bolster their defenses against common illnesses.
Leeks contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial in reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health. For children, this can mean less inflammation related to allergies or asthma, contributing to a more comfortable and active lifestyle.
So, incorporating leeks into a childβs diet offers a range of health benefits, from supporting bone health and digestion to boosting the immune system. The kids might not like raw leeks because it is spicy, but if you cook a cheese and leek tart your kids may love it.
Also, the dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are often considered fundamental elements in a child’s diet. Rich in a variety of nutrients, they play a crucial role in supporting healthy growth and development in children.
One of the most well-known benefits of dairy is its high calcium content, essential for developing strong bones and teeth. This is particularly important in childhood and adolescence, when most bone growth occurs. Dairy products are also a good source of vitamin D, which enhances calcium absorption and bone health.
Dairy products provide high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. This is especially important for children, who are constantly active and need protein to support their growing bodies.
Beyond calcium and protein, dairy products contain a range of other essential nutrients. These include B vitamins (such as B12 and riboflavin), which are important for energy production and overall development, as well as phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins A and D.
Yogurt and some cheeses contain probiotics, beneficial bacteria that can aid in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. A healthy gut is crucial for a strong immune system, helping children fight off infections and illnesses.
The fats in dairy, particularly in whole-fat dairy products, are important for brain development. Young children especially need these fats to support the growth and development of their brain and nervous system.
So, incorporating dairy into a child’s diet offers a multitude of benefits. From building strong bones and muscles to supporting immune and brain health, dairy products are a powerhouse of nutrition. They provide essential nutrients in forms that are easily absorbed and used by growing bodies, making them an integral part of a balanced diet for children.
NOTE: This is a personal opinion, because I believe that following a balances diet is a healthy choice. This is not a medical opinion.
Easy Cheese and Leek Tart Recipe Full
Whether you call it a pie, a tart or a quiche, baking this savory culinary dish represents an amazing experience for the entire family. With its creamy filling, the unique aroma of leek and the crispy base, this tart would definitely delight for senses from the first bite. I used the Thermomix to ease my cooking, but you can definitely use a bowl with a spatula, or a kneading machine to help you achieve this super easy dough that will be later baked into the oven filled with the creamy cheese and leek mixture.
Homemade Cheese and Leek Tart β a super easy and delicious tart recipe perfect for the beginning of 2024
Equipment
- 1 Thermomix / Bowl with Spatula / Kneading machine
- 1 Oven
- 1 Oven Tray
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
For the dough
- 250 g Flour
- 125 g Soften butter
- 65 g Water
- 1 pc Egg
- 1 tsp Salt
For the filling
- 2 pcs Leeks we will use only the white part;
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 100 g Salted cheese you can use Cheddar or Mozzarella;
- 4 pcs Eggs
- 400 g Heavy cream
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Instructions
- First, you are going to make the dough. For this, place the ingredients for the dough into the mixing bowl and KNEAD – 5 minutes. You should do the same thing if you use a bowl and a spatula or a kneading machine.
- Place the dough into a bowl and cover it with plastic foil.
- Place it into the fridge for at least 2 hours before baking.
- Before baking, take out the dough from the fridge and place it on a floured surface. Stretch it using a rolling pin to fit the baking tray that you are going to use for the tart.
- Place the dough into the baking tray and make sure you also cover the side walls of the tray.
- Using a fork, bite the dough to release the air that could rise the dough while baking.
- Bake the dough into the preheated oven for 20 minutes at 200o Celsius (392o F).
- After that, take out the dough and leave it to completely cool.
- Now, prepare the filling. Start by cutting the leeks julienne.
- Place a pan on the stove and melt the butter.
- Then, pour the julienned leeks, add salt and pepper, as you like.
- Sautee the leeks until it softens;
- Grate the cheese. I used the Thermomix for 5 SEC β Speed 7;
- Mix the cheese, the heavy cream, the eggs, salt and pepper until you get a creamy composition. I used the Thermomix 10 SEC β Speed 5;
- Now, place the cooked leeks on the tart crust and make sure you cover the entire surface;
- Then, pour the cheese mixture;
- Bake the tart into the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes at 180o C (356o F).
- I know it will be a real challenge, but try to let the tart cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving it.
Nutrition
I truly hope you will try this amazing and easy cheese and leek tart in your own kitchen, because I am sure you will love it, and the entire family will find it extremely delicious and creamy. Until the next easy and delicious homemade recipe here on easeyourcooking.com, I wish you all a great time spend with your loved ones and I hope we will all have a Happy New Year. Bye π
