Caramelize the Onions:
In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat until browned.
Add the sliced onions, cover, and cook over medium heat until they start to brown nicely, stirring occasionally. Cooking covered helps the onions caramelize faster by trapping steam.
Once golden and softened, remove from heat and let cool.
Prepare the Tart Base:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
Roll out your puff pastry or shortcrust pastry and place it in a tart pan or on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up unevenly during baking.
Assemble the Tart:
Sprinkle 75 g of grated cheese evenly over the pastry base.
Add a pinch of sage or your chosen herb, if desired.
Spread half of the cooled caramelized onions evenly over the cheese.
Drizzle 2 teaspoons of honey over the onions.
Add another 75 g of grated cheese, followed by the remaining onions, concentrating them in the center and leaving the edges of the pastry clear.
Drizzle another 2 teaspoons of honey over the top layer of onions.
Bake the Tart:
Gently fold the edges of the pastry inward over the filling to create a rustic edge.
Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Garnish and Serve:
Let the tart cool slightly before garnishing with fresh rosemary, parsley, chives, or leaving it plain.
Slice and serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Serve as a starter for a dinner party or as part of a brunch spread.
Cooking Tips
Let the onions cool before layering them onto the pastry to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Use high-quality honey for a richer, more nuanced flavor.
If you prefer a stronger flavor, goat cheese makes a great alternative to mild cheeses.
Nutritional Benefits
Onions are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
Honey provides natural sweetness and has antibacterial properties.
Cheese adds protein and calcium to the dish.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian
Can be made dairy-free by using vegan butter and plant-based cheese.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice, Approx. 6 Slices)
Calories: 220
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Storage
Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Requires only a handful of ingredients and comes together quickly.
Sweet and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect as a versatile dish for any time of day.
No eggs required, making it lighter and accessible to more diets.
Conclusion
This Caramelized Onion and Honey Tart is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and buttery flavors. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s an ideal recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether served as a light meal or an impressive appetizer, this tart is sure to earn a place among your favorite recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?
Yes, store-bought caramelized onions can save time and work well in this recipe.
Can I substitute puff pastry with shortcrust pastry?
Absolutely! Both work beautifully, with puff pastry offering a lighter texture and shortcrust a sturdier base.
What other cheeses work for this recipe?
Gruyère, feta, goat cheese, or even blue cheese can be used for different flavor profiles.
Can I make this tart vegan?
Use vegan puff pastry, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute.
Can I make the tart ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the tart and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before baking.
Can I add more vegetables to the tart?
Thinly sliced zucchini or roasted red peppers make great additions.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore the crispness of the pastry.
Can I freeze the tart?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it after baking. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
What herbs pair best with this tart?
Sage, rosemary, thyme, or oregano complement the flavors beautifully
