Name: Feta and Sweet Onion Tart
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 4 onions; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon chopped sage; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 sheet frozen puff pastry; ½ cup feta cheese or a crumbly goat's cheese; 1 egg

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Every time I think about a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly, I can’t help but recall the Feta and Sweet Onion Tart. This recipe came to life one chilly evening as I rummaged through my pantry, looking for something that would not only satisfy my cravings but also impress my friends. With the aroma of slowly caramelized onions mingling with the salty richness of feta cheese, it was an instant hit. I’ve made this tart for cozy gatherings, casual dinners, and even brunches, and it never fails to bring smiles around the table. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug; you just want to dive right in.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
70 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
7 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

Why We Love This Feta and Sweet Onion Tart

It’s All About the Flavors

The combination of sweet onions and feta cheese creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The natural sweetness from the onions perfectly complements the sharp, tangy notes of the feta, making each bite a delightful experience.

Perfectly Simple to Prepare

What I love about the Feta and Sweet Onion Tart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The puff pastry does all the heavy lifting, giving it that flaky texture we love without requiring advanced baking skills.

Versatile for Any Occasion

This tart is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a light lunch, or a dinner party, it fits right in. It pairs beautifully with salads or can stand alone as a light meal. I often serve it with a side of mixed greens topped with a tangy vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Another reason to love this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the onion filling and keep it in the fridge, then just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. This is a game-changer when you’re entertaining guests!

A Crowd-Pleaser

No matter where I bring this tart, it always receives rave reviews. People are often surprised at how deliciously simple it is, which makes it even more rewarding for me as the cook. It’s a fantastic dish to showcase at gatherings, and I love seeing everyone enjoy it.

Nourishing Comfort Food

Finally, there’s something incredibly comforting about this tart. The sweet and savory flavors blend together, creating a satisfying dish that fills you up without weighing you down. It’s the kind of food that feels nourishing, reminding me of cozy nights spent in the kitchen with friends.

Everything You Need for Feta and Sweet Onion Tart

The ingredients for this Feta and Sweet Onion Tart are simple yet provide a wonderful depth of flavor. The key players here are the onions, which bring sweetness, and the feta cheese, which adds a creamy, tangy contrast. Here’s a look at what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil – This is the base for sautéing the onions to get them soft and caramelized.
1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness to the onion mixture.
4 onions – The star of the dish! Finely sliced for the best caramelization.
½ teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
1 tablespoon chopped sage – A lovely herb that brings earthiness to the tart.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the dish.
1 tablespoon brown sugar – Helps caramelize the onions and adds depth of flavor.
1 sheet frozen puff pastry – The flaky crust that cradles the filling.
½ cup feta cheese or a crumbly goat’s cheese – Provides creaminess and sharp flavor.
1 egg – Used for glazing the edges for a beautiful golden finish.

Recipe Steps for Feta and Sweet Onion Tart

Making the Feta and Sweet Onion Tart is a delightful process that brings wonderful aromas into your kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to create this delicious dish.

Start by peeling and finely slicing the onions. Look for onions that are firm and fresh, as they will bring the best flavor to the dish.
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter together over medium heat. This combination helps to create a rich base for the onions.
Add the sliced onions, salt, and sage to the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions start to soften. You want them to become translucent but not browned yet.
Turn the heat down to its lowest setting and continue to cook the onions for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re aiming for a golden-brown color, which indicates they’ve caramelized beautifully.
While the onions are cooking, remove the puff pastry from the freezer and set it on the counter to defrost. It’s important that the pastry is thawed but still cold when you work with it.
Add the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar to the onions. Stir well and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Slide your defrosted puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with cooking paper. Make sure it’s positioned correctly, as this will be the base for your tart.
Preheat your oven to 220°C/430°F. This high temperature will help achieve that perfect puffiness and golden color.
Using a butter knife, carefully cut a border inside the tart, about an inch from the edge. You want to score it gently without cutting all the way through. This will help the edges rise while keeping the filling intact.
Prick the surface of the inner rectangle of the pastry with a sharp knife. This helps to minimize puffiness during baking and ensures an even base for your filling.
Spread the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the inside of the tart. If you find you have more filling than space, don’t worry – it keeps well in the fridge!
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese (or goat’s cheese) generously over the onion mixture. The cheese will melt and create a delightful creamy texture.
Using a pastry brush, glaze the edges of the tart with the beaten egg. This helps create that golden brown color during baking.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tart is crispy and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing by this point!

Things Worth Knowing

Caramelizing onions: The key to rich flavors is patience. Low and slow is the way to go when cooking onions; they need time to release their natural sweetness.
Choosing the right cheese: Feta adds a tangy flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for different taste profiles.
Handling puff pastry: Always keep it cold until you’re ready to use it for the best results; this helps to achieve that flaky texture.
Egg wash tips: Ensure the beaten egg is well mixed for an even glaze, and brush it on gently to avoid deflating the pastry.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to elevate your Feta and Sweet Onion Tart experience or merely adapt it to your preferences, here are some tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to regain its crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked tart for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap.
Pairing: This tart pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or a light soup, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Variations: Add other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful twist. You can also mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Seasonal adaptations: Change up the ingredients based on the season. Use leeks in the spring or roasted tomatoes in the summer for a refreshing take.

What to Serve Alongside Feta and Sweet Onion Tart

The Feta and Sweet Onion Tart is not just a standalone dish; it opens up a world of delightful pairings that complement its rich flavors:

Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the tart and provide a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve it alongside a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty and nutritious meal.
Soup: A warm bowl of tomato or butternut squash soup can make for a comforting and cozy combination.
Brunch Platter: Add the tart to a brunch spread with fruits, cheeses, and pastries for a delightful morning treat.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a light white or rosé will complement the flavors beautifully.

FAQ

Absolutely! While feta cheese adds a unique tangy flavor, you can also experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar. Each cheese will lend its own character to the tart, so feel free to get creative based on your preference!

This recipe is already vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a meat-free meal. You can enhance the vegetarian aspect by adding more vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to the onion mixture for added flavor and nutrients.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to help regain some of that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked Feta and Sweet Onion Tart. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake it according to the recipe instructions. It’s a great way to prepare meals ahead of time!

Conclusion

The Feta and Sweet Onion Tart is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as a main course, appetizer, or brunch dish, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to give this tart a try; it might just become your new favorite recipe!