Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onion Tart

If you're looking for a savory tart that's both hearty and flavorful, look no further than this Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onion Tart! This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, a dinner party appetizer, or a potluck contribution. 

The tart's combination of sweet potatoes and caramelized onions is complemented by savory herbs and a flaky pastry crust, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

This tart is a great way to incorporate sweet potatoes into your diet. Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. They're also delicious and versatile, making them a staple in many cuisines. By pairing them with caramelized onions and other savory flavors, this recipe takes sweet potatoes to a new level.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Preparation method:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to caramelize, about 20-25 minutes. Add the brown sugar, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.

5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan and trim the edges.

6. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the bottom of the crust. Spoon the caramelized onions over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are tender. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Common Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe? Yes, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash instead of sweet potatoes.

2. Can I make the crust ahead of time? Yes, you can make the crust up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze the tart? Yes, you can freeze the fully baked tart for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

4. Can I use pre-made crust for this recipe? Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you prefer.

5. Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese for another type of cheese? Yes, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as Gruyere or cheddar.