Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: A Sophisticated Appetizer or Light Meal

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that’s perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal. This recipe features a buttery pastry crust filled with sweet caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, and savory herbs, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients: For the pastry crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. To make the pastry crust, combine all-purpose flour and salt in a food processor. Add cold diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to fit a tart pan.
5. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a tart pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
6. Prick the bottom of the pastry crust with a fork, then line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
7. Bake the pastry crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
8. While the pastry crust is baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
9. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute to deglaze the skillet. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
10. Spread caramelized onions evenly over the partially baked pastry crust. Scatter crumbled goat cheese and fresh thyme leaves over the top.
11. Season Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart with salt and pepper to taste.
12. Return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this sophisticated and flavorful tart as an appetizer or light meal!