This tasty Irish Cheddar Cheese Spinach Tart is a delightful blend of creamy cheese and fresh spinach, all wrapped in a flaky crust. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of cheesy goodness and the vibrant green of spinach? I love making this when I want something fancy but super easy. Plus, it’s packed with flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for this tart, but if you’re short on time, frozen spinach works too. Just remember to thaw and drain it properly. I often prefer fresh for its vibrant color and flavor!
Irish Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a unique flavor. If you can’t find it, look for sharp cheddar or even a combination of cheddar and Gruyère for a similar taste. Personally, I enjoy using a blend for extra creaminess.
Heavy Cream: If you’re aiming for a lighter tart, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk. Just know it’ll change the richness a bit. When I want to lighten it up, I go with half-and-half—it still tastes great!
Onion and Garlic: Yellow or white onions work best, but you can also use shallots for a milder taste. Sometimes, I add a hint of garlic powder when I’m short on fresh garlic.
How Do I Ensure the Tart Filling Is Well Combined?
Mixing the filling properly is key to a successful tart. Start by whisking the eggs and cream until they’re perfectly blended—this prevents any egg clumps. It helps if your ingredients are at room temperature to mix more easily.
- Combine eggs and cream in a bowl until smooth.
- Slowly fold in the sautéed spinach and cheese mixture, being gentle to maintain fluffiness.
This method keeps your tart light and airy, which is always a hit. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning—a little salt can enhance the flavors significantly!
How to Make Irish Cheddar Cheese Spinach Tart?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tart:
- 1 pre-made pastry crust (9-inch)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Irish Cheddar Cheese Spinach Tart takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 50 minutes, plus a few minutes to cool down before serving. It’s a perfect dish for brunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a pre-made pastry crust, simply place it in your 9-inch tart pan and set it aside. If you’re making your own pastry, roll it out and fit it into the tart pan carefully.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet, pour in a tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells wonderful! This will add a nice flavor to your tart.
3. Add the Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. If you’re using fresh spinach, cook it until it wilts. If you’re using frozen spinach, just heat it through. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper for taste. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Make the Egg and Cream Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs and heavy cream until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to this mixture! It will create a creamy filling for your tart.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the grated Irish cheddar cheese and the sautéed spinach mixture to the egg and cream mixture. Stir it all together so that the spinach and cheese are evenly distributed in the filling.
6. Pour and Bake:
Carefully pour this yummy filling into the prepared pastry crust. Spread it out evenly, then pop it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tart is nicely set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the tart out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, and if you like, sprinkle some extra grated cheddar or fresh herbs on top for garnish. Enjoy your delicious spinach tart!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the tart. This will help prevent a soggy filling. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream to make it dairy-free. Keep in mind that the tart may have a slightly different texture and taste, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a quick option!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Tart?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the total volume to ensure the tart sets properly.
