Spinach and Dill Tart with Roasted Peppers: A Delightful Snack for Every Occasion
This Spinach and Dill Tart with Roasted Peppers is a savory and irresistible mini tart that promises to elevate any snack or appetizer spread. With its buttery, crisp pie crust filled with fresh spinach, roasted bell peppers, and the unique tang of dill, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Paired with the richness of Britannia Roasted Garlic Cheese Spread, this tart brings out a perfect balance of flavor and freshness, making it an ideal choice for a casual get-together or an elegant tea party. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delightful treat.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| For the Filling | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 2, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Spinach | 300 grams, finely chopped |
| Dill Leaves | 100 grams, finely chopped |
| Britannia Cheese Spread – Roasted Garlic | 1 cup |
| For the Pie Crust | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter (Unsalted) | 1/2 cup, cut into small pea-sized pieces |
| Chilled Water | 3-4 tablespoons |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 40 mini tarts (approximately)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Add the unsalted butter pieces and rub them into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add chilled water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to add too much water—just enough to form a soft dough.
- Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into circles. Place each circle into a mini tart shell, pressing gently to fit the edges. You can use a tart shell pan or individual mini tart cups.
- Bake the mini tart shells in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn golden and crisp. Once done, set them aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling:
- Heat a small amount of oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté it until it softens and becomes fragrant.
- Add the chopped bell peppers to the pan and sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they soften and begin to release their sweetness.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and dill leaves, cooking them until the spinach wilts and any excess water evaporates. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the vegetables are cooked and the moisture has evaporated, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Stir in the Britannia Roasted Garlic Cheese Spread, mixing everything together until the filling is smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
- Once the tart shells have cooled, spoon a heaping tablespoon of the prepared vegetable and cheese filling into each mini tart shell.
- Gently press the filling down with the back of the spoon to ensure it is well packed.
4. Serve:
- Serve your freshly made Spinach and Dill Tarts with Roasted Peppers warm or at room temperature. These tarts make a fantastic addition to any tea party or gathering.
- Pair them with a refreshing cup of Ahina Long Leaf Green Tea for a perfect afternoon snack or light meal. Their delicate flavors and balance will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Tips for Perfect Spinach and Dill Tarts
- Pastry Tips: For an even flakier crust, ensure that the butter is chilled and the dough isn’t overworked. It’s okay if the dough is a little crumbly before baking—it will come together beautifully once baked.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms if you’re craving a twist. Just be sure to sauté any water-heavy vegetables before adding them to the filling.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the tart shells and filling ahead of time. Simply store the cooled tart shells in an airtight container and refrigerate the filling. When ready to serve, just assemble the tarts and bake as instructed.
These Spinach and Dill Tarts with Roasted Peppers are the perfect bite-sized indulgence, ideal for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive celebrations. With the fresh flavors of spinach, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the creaminess of the garlic cheese spread, this recipe offers an unforgettable culinary experience that’s both savory and satisfying. Enjoy!
