Tourte aux Courgettes Monégasque
A savory tart featuring thinly sliced zucchini baked in a delicate, olive oil-based crust. This dish highlights the simplicity and fresh flavors of Monegasque cuisine, often prepared with local zucchini and herbs.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Zucchini(about 3-4 medium, thinly sliced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil(plus extra for greasing)
- 2 tbsp Fresh basil(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 50 g Parmesan cheese(grated)
- 1 large Egg(beaten)
- 50 g Cooked rice(optional, for binding)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 150 ml Water(approximate)
- 50 ml Olive oil(for the dough)
- 0.25 tsp Salt(for the dough)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and 50ml olive oil. Gradually add water and mix until a cohesive dough forms. Knead briefly, then wrap in plastic and let rest for 30 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, 4 tbsp olive oil, chopped basil, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and cooked rice (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a tart pan or pie dish.
- 4
Assemble the tart: Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Roll out the larger portion and line the tart pan, trimming any excess. Spread the zucchini filling evenly over the dough.
- 5
Cover the filling: Roll out the second dough portion and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few vents in the top crust.
- 6
Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Let cool slightly before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a crispier crust, brush the top with a little olive oil before baking.
- ✓You can add other herbs like thyme or oregano to the filling.
- ✓If you don't have rice, the tart will still hold together well with the egg and cheese.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes on top of the zucchini filling.
- Incorporate a small amount of ricotta cheese into the filling for extra creaminess.
- Use a mix of zucchini and summer squash for varied texture and flavor.