Caponata tartlets
Discover an exquisite recipe for Caponata Tartlets made with a delicious blend of eggplant, zucchini, red onion, and tangy olives, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, these tartlets combine Mediterranean flavors with homemade pastry for a dish that's sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful medley of vegetables and capers in a savory tomato base, enhanced by a touch of vinegar. Fresh and flavorful, these tartlets are a must-try for any food lover!
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 40 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil1 red onion
2 garlic cloves
1 stalk celery
1 eggplant
1 large zucchini
1 can canned tomatoes
1/2 cup olives
2 tbsp capers
2 tbsp vinegar
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup butter
2 yolks
1 tbsp water
Caponata tartlets are an appetizing and delightful way to enjoy the rich and tangy flavors of Sicilian cuisine. These savory tartlets feature a hearty filling made from eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and a variety of tasty seasonings, all nestled inside a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for parties, picnics, or as an elegant appetizer, caponata tartlets are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and gourmet taste.
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped celery, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the diced eggplant, continuing to cook for about 7-10 minutes until it starts to soften.
6. Mix in the diced zucchini and cook for another 5-7 minutes until tender.
7. Add the canned tomatoes (with their juices), chopped olives, and rinsed capers. Stir to combine.
8. Pour in the vinegar and allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
9. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and chilled, cubed butter.
2. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg yolks and the cold water, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times to form a smooth ball.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Cut out circles from the dough and gently press them into tartlet pans or a muffin tin to form the shell bases.
4. Prick the bottoms of the tart shells with a fork. This will prevent them from puffing up during baking.
5. Pre-bake the shells in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
7. Fill each tartlet shell with a generous spoonful of the prepared caponata mixture.
8. Return the filled tartlets to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, until everything is heated through.
1. Remove the tartlets from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the tartlet pans or muffin tin.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips:
- Dice the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.
- After salting the eggplant, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture and reduce bitterness.
- Pre-bake the tartlet shells for a few minutes to ensure they stay crisp and hold their shape when filled.
- Use a food processor to combine the butter and flour quickly, which helps to keep the dough cool and results in a flakier crust.
- Allow the caponata filling to cool slightly before filling the tartlets to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Caponata tartlets are a versatile and flavorsome addition to any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and a homemade buttery crust makes for a delightful treat that is both satisfying and nutritious. By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious caponata tartlets that will surely become a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy the taste of Sicily in every bite!
Nutrition per serving
6 ServingsCalories 380kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 8g
Fat 24g
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