Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

A Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This vegan Italian tart combines fresh zucchini and red onions with a savory batter, making it suitable for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer at gatherings. The unique blend of flavors and textures offers a satisfying experience, while the simplicity of preparation makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this tart in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of zucchini, red onion, and herbs creates a deliciously savory dish that is sure to impress.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course, side dish, or snack, this tart fits into any meal plan.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthy option for those looking to eat more plant-based meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, making it easy to prepare ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure you get the perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mandolin slicer
• Cheesecloth or thin kitchen cloth
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and crispiness in your tart.
• Mandolin slicer: This tool allows you to slice zucchini and onions uniformly, promoting even cooking.
• Cheesecloth or thin kitchen cloth: Essential for draining excess liquid from your vegetables, which prevents a soggy tart.

Ingredients

A delicious summer tart featuring zucchini, red onions, and savory homemade batter!

For the Vegetables

• 3 zucchinis (medium, thinly sliced with a mandolin)
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced with a mandolin)
• 1 tsp salt

For the Batter

• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornmeal
• ½ cup water (or up to ¾)

How to Make Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the zucchini and red onion in a bowl. Add the salt evenly over the vegetables. Place a weight (like a pot or pan) on top with a can inside to help draw out moisture. Allow this mixture to sit for 2 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray a small baking sheet with oil; a size of 13 x 18 inches works well.

Step 3: Drain the Vegetables

After two hours, transfer the zucchini and onion mixture into cheesecloth or a clean kitchen cloth. Drain as much liquid as possible into a large bowl. Set the drained vegetables aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Batter

In the bowl containing the reserved liquid from draining vegetables, add flour, nutritional yeast, dried rosemary, and cornmeal. Gently mix until a batter forms. Adjust thickness by adding additional water (½ cup to ¾ cup) until you reach pancake batter consistency.

Step 5: Combine & Bake

Fold in the drained vegetables into your batter until evenly mixed. Pour this mixture into your oiled baking dish and spread evenly. Lightly spray the top with more oil before placing it in the oven for about 35 minutes or until lightly crisped.

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. Enjoy your Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart!

How to Serve Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it as a light lunch or as part of a dinner spread, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Light Lunch

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing meal.
• Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting combo.

With Dipping Sauces

• Enjoy with balsamic reduction for a tangy twist.
• Try it with a vegan garlic aioli for added flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Cut into smaller squares and serve as finger food at your next gathering.
• Offer with olives and cheese for a Mediterranean platter.

Cold or Warm

• Serve warm straight from the oven for the best texture.
• Enjoy chilled from the fridge for a refreshing snack on hot days.

How to Perfect Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

To make your Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchinis and onions enhance the flavor significantly.
• Drain Thoroughly: Properly draining the vegetables ensures your tart won’t be soggy.
• Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to achieve even cooking.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer, adjust the batter thickness by adding more or less water.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the tart to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

Pairing side dishes with your Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart can elevate the meal. Here are some excellent options to complement this delicious dish.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette enhances freshness.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and flavor to your plate.
3. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta with seasonal vegetables creates an Italian feast.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into sauces.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad provides a hearty contrast.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes add texture and satisfy hunger.
7. Soup of the Day: A warm soup pairs perfectly, balancing flavors and temperatures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the salting step: Skipping the process of salting the zucchini and onions can lead to a soggy tart. Always allow them to sit with salt to release excess moisture.
• Not preheating the oven: If you don’t preheat your oven, the tart may not cook evenly. Make sure your oven reaches 400F before placing the tart inside.
• Using too much or too little water: The batter should have a pancake-like consistency. If it’s too thick, gradually add more water until it thins out correctly.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Spreading the batter too thickly can result in uneven cooking. Spread it into an even layer for consistent crispiness.
• Failing to store properly: Leaving the tart uncovered can dry it out. Always store it in a sealed container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The tart can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart

• Oven: Preheat to 350F, then reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, covering it with a lid to retain moisture while crisping the bottom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart?

Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart is a savory Italian dish featuring zucchini and onions baked in a light batter, perfect for summer meals.

Can I customize my Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or herbs for extra flavor. Experiment with different seasonings!

Is Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart vegan?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and uses no animal products, making it suitable for vegans.

How do I serve Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart?

This tart is versatile; serve it warm as a main dish or cold as an appetizer. It pairs well with salads too!

Final Thoughts

Scarpaccia Zucchini Tart is delicious and adaptable, making it a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Its savory flavors and crispy texture are sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch!