Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3-6 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 medium red onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Caramelize the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced red onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until they become soft and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Add the balsamic vinegar, light brown sugar, and honey, stirring well to coat. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture is thick and sticky. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the feta cheese, cream cheese, and egg until smooth and well combined. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Assemble the tarts: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small rounds or squares to fit your tart pans or a baking sheet. Place the dough pieces on parchment-lined baking sheets or tart pans. Spread a layer of the caramelized onion mixture evenly onto each piece of dough, then spoon the cheese mixture over the top.
- Bake: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set and slightly browned on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, chill the dough thoroughly before rolling out and baking.
- If you prefer a milder onion flavor, use yellow onions instead of red.
- The tarts can be made in advance and reheated gently in the oven before serving.
- These tarts pair well with a light green salad and a crisp white wine.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Savory Tart
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian