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Mini Salmon Quiches Recipe

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4.9 from 93 reviews

This classic Onion Tart features a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with sweet, caramelized onions and a rich custard of eggs, cream, and melted cheese. Perfect as a savory appetizer or light meal, it balances creamy texture with the deep flavor of slowly sautéed onions and a hint of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Ingredients

For the crust (shortcrust pastry):

  • 200 g all-purpose flour
  • 100 g cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
  • 1 egg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1-2 tbsp cold water

For the filling:

  • 3-4 large onions (about 500 g)
  • 30 g unsalted butter
  • 100 ml heavy cream (20-30%)
  • 2 eggs
  • 100 g hard cheese (such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or Cheddar), grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and cold butter, rubbing with your fingers until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
  2. Form the dough ball: Add the egg and cold water, then knead gently until a smooth dough forms.
  3. Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
  4. Slice the onions: Thinly slice the onions into half-rings for even caramelization.
  5. Caramelize onions: Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat, then sauté the onions for about 20 minutes until soft and golden, stirring often to prevent burning.
  6. Make the filling mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and cream, then stir in the grated cheese, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg until combined.
  7. Prepare the tart crust: Roll out the chilled dough and line a 23 cm tart pan, trimming and forming edges. Prick the base with a fork to prevent puffing.
  8. Assemble the tart: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the crust, then pour the cheese and cream mixture on top.
  9. Bake the tart: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, until the filling is golden and set.
  10. Cool and serve: Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure onions are caramelized slowly over medium heat for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter tart, but the texture will be less rich.
  • Choose a hard cheese that melts well and adds a sharp or nutty flavor, such as Gruyère or Parmesan.
  • The tart can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
  • For a crispier crust, blind bake the tart shell for 10 minutes before adding the filling.