Got Swiss Chard? Try This Easy Provençal Tart Recipe!
If you find yourself with a bundle of fresh Swiss chard, you're in for a culinary delight. This leafy green is not only packed with vitamins and minerals, but its mild flavor pairs perfectly with various ingredients. I think one of the best ways to enjoy Swiss chard is by turning it into a Provençal tart. This dish combines simple, fresh ingredients to create a meal that feels both rustic and sophisticated. Originally from the sun-kissed regions of southern France, the tart is as varied as the number of homes in the region, since historically home cooks used what they had available. I have done that here and taken liberty with this recipe a bit to substitute some of the more traditional ingredients like orange peel and pine nuts with lemon and pistachios.
In this week's recipe, you will discover how to make a delicious Provençal Swiss Chard Tart (Tourte aux Blettes) that will impress your family and friends. Whether you need a hearty dinner option or a standout dish for your next gathering, this tart will surely shine. It is truly fantastic for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert.
Let's get started with the recipe!
Why Swiss Chard?
Before we start cooking, let’s take a moment to appreciate the benefits of Swiss chard. This versatile green can be used in an array of dishes, including salads, soups, and stir-fries. Its vibrant colors—ranging from deep green to bright red and yellow—add a beautiful touch to any meal.
Swiss chard is also a nutritional powerhouse. For instance, just one cup of cooked Swiss chard provides over 100% of the daily recommended intake of vitamins A and K. Additionally, it contains significant amounts of vitamin C and is high in minerals such as magnesium and potassium. This means you can indulge in this delightful tart while also nourishing your body!
Ingredients for the Swiss Chard Tart
To create your Provençal Swiss Chard Tart, gather the following ingredients:
1 recipe double pie crust - homemade is best, healthiest (and easy)
1 bunch of Swiss chard, washed
1 medium eggplant, diced
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 medium shallot, minced
1 tablespoon all purpose flour
1 cup golden raisins, soaked in hot water until plump (~30 minutes)
3 eggs
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup pistachio nuts, chopped (traditionally it would be pine nuts)
peel of one lemon, fine chiffonade
1/2 cup of grated cheese (e.g., Gruyère or Parmesan)
Fresh herbs, thyme, basil, and garlic chives, minced (I used 2 sprigs of thyme, 10 basil leaves, and 6 garlic chive pieces, follow your own path here)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Fresh herbs like thyme or basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (~180°C) to ensure even baking. Convection ovens make a really nice crust but remember to drop the temp by 25ºF.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 10 to 12 inch tart pan. Press the crust firmly against the pan and remove any excess dough. Place in the fridge while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
Cut the leaves from the rib (stem) and separate them. Chop the ribs into 1/2 inch pieces and place in a bowl. Stack the leaves and cut crosswise, place these in a separate bowl. Peel and chop the eggplant and place in the bowl with the rib pieces.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the shallot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the ribs of the Swiss chard and eggplant. Sauté until the chard ribs soften a little, then add in the leaves and cook until they wilt. This will all take about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with the flour and mix in.
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until fully combined. Then, stir in the grated cheese, lemon peel, herbs, pistachio nuts, and drained raisins.
5. Combine the Filling
Fold the sautéed Swiss chard mixture into the egg and cheese mixture and fold together, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
6. Assemble the Tart
Spoon the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. For an extra cheesy delight, sprinkle some additional cheese on top. Roll out the second pie dough and place on top. Cut the dough about 1-inch wider than the tart pan. Then tuck this part between the pan and the bottom crust. This will help to form a pocket when it bakes. Make small slits in the top crust to allow steam to vent when cooking. If desired, brush top with egg wash, but not needed.
Option: Leave top crust off and add a bit more cheese to the top before baking.
7. Bake
Place the tart in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the tart to cool for about 30 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance both the color and flavor.
Tips for Success
Make-Ahead: You can prepare this tart in advance. It is great served cold or simply reheat in the oven before serving.
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions: This tart pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. You can dust the top with powdered sugar and serve as a dessert, for a more traditional twist. This also make a great first course to an elegant meal.
Savor the Experience
Making a Provençal Swiss Chard Tart is a fantastic way to use fresh Swiss chard while adding a touch of French flair to your home cooked meals. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and adaptable for various occasions—whether casual family dinners or festive gatherings.
So the next time you see Swiss chard at the market or in your garden, consider trying out this simple yet delightful Provençal tart. Your guests will surely ask for seconds! Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results! What's not to LOVE!
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