Summer has arrived, and with it, a glorious abundance of fresh, vibrant produce! Nothing screams summer quite like the sweet taste of ripe tomatoes and the delicate flavor of summer squash. These two ingredients are the stars of this recipe, offering a delicious and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Get ready to savor the taste of summer!
Summer Squash and Tomato Galette: A Simple, Elegant Dish
This rustic tart is a beautiful showcase for summer's bounty. The flaky crust provides a delightful contrast to the juicy filling, making it a truly satisfying and healthy meal. It’s a great example of easy recipes that deliver impressive results.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¼ cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
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Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Assemble the Galette: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet. Arrange the squash and tomato mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as you go. If using, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the filling.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the vegetables are tender. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Summer Squash and Tomato Galette:
- Use a variety of summer squash for added flavor and color.
- Don’t overcrowd the galette; it’s better to have a slightly thinner layer of filling for even cooking.
- If your tomatoes are particularly juicy, you might want to sprinkle a little extra flour over the filling to absorb excess moisture.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and cheeses to customize the recipe to your taste.
Variations:
- Add protein: Crumble some cooked sausage or bacon into the filling for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian twist: Add some roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer. It's a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish, and let the sunshine of summer flavors brighten your day!