Cottage Cheese and Crème Fraîche Fillo Tart

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fillo Pastry:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush a 9-inch tart pan or a pie dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Then, lay the fillo sheets in the pan, one at a time, brushing each sheet with olive oil before adding the next. Layer the fillo pastry at a slight angle, creating a slight overlap with each sheet to form a rustic, uneven crust that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

You want to create several layers to ensure the pastry is sturdy and flaky. Depending on how thick you want the crust, you can layer anywhere from 6 to 10 sheets of fillo. Once all the sheets are in the pan, gently press the edges to fit into the tart pan.

2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese and Crème Fraîche Filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, crème fraîche, grated Parmesan, and thyme. If you like a smoother filling, you can blend the cottage cheese first to create a creamier texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For added richness, you can also whisk in one egg, which will help bind the filling and create a slightly firmer texture. This step is optional, but it can give the tart a more custard-like consistency.

If you’re adding any optional ingredients such as sautéed spinach, onions, or sun-dried tomatoes, fold them into the mixture now. These ingredients can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the tart.

3. Assemble the Tart:

Carefully spoon the cottage cheese and crème fraîche mixture into the prepared fillo crust. Use a spatula to smooth the filling evenly across the tart, ensuring that the entire base is covered.

4. Bake the Tart:

Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown on top. The fillo crust should be crispy and golden, while the creamy filling will be slightly puffed up. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of your tart pan.

5. Cool and Serve:

Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the filling to set completely, making it easier to slice. Before serving, garnish the tart with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Slice the tart into wedges and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or as part of a larger spread of appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese and Crème Fraîche Fillo Tart:

• Creamy and Tangy Filling: The combination of cottage cheese and crème fraîche creates a smooth, creamy filling with a delightful tang. It’s rich without being overly heavy, making it a perfect dish for any time of day.
• Flaky, Crisp Fillo Crust: The fillo pastry adds a beautiful contrast in texture to the creamy filling. Its light, crisp layers create a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Customizable: This tart is incredibly versatile. You can add any vegetables or herbs you like, such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of garlic. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to adapt it to different seasons or flavor preferences.
• Elegant and Impressive: While it’s easy to make, this tart looks and tastes like something you’d serve at a fancy dinner party. It’s an impressive dish that’s perfect for special occasions, but simple enough for a casual gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the tart in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it an excellent choice for entertaining or meal prepping. Simply bake it just before serving for a warm, fresh tart that’s ready to impress.

Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: Cottage cheese is packed with protein, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full for longer. This makes the tart a great option for a satisfying breakfast or light lunch.
• Calcium-Rich: Both cottage cheese and crème fraîche are excellent sources of calcium, which supports strong bones and overall bone health.
• Versatile for Dietary Preferences: You can make this dish even more nutritious by adding extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or use lower-fat cottage cheese and crème fraîche for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts:

The Cottage Cheese and Crème Fraîche Fillo Tart is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines creamy flavors with the satisfying crunch of fillo pastry. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a savory treat, this tart will be a hit. It’s simple, elegant, and customizable, making it perfect for a wide variety of occasions. Give this recipe a try for your next brunch, dinner party, or family gathering, and enjoy the creamy, flaky goodness in every bite!