| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 520 | 30g | 18g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 15g | 1.2g |
My Affection for Leek, Cheese and Ham Tart
In cold Colorado, there is often nothing more welcoming than a warm, hearty meal after a day in the great outdoors. Every bite of this exquisite Leek, Cheese, and Ham Tart is reminiscent of those cozy moments. The hearty ham, melted cheese, and tender leek blend into a culinary experience that rivals the grandeur of the mountains themselves. A similar sense of comfort is found in the French Quiche Lorraine, a traditional culinary jewel that has been around for centuries. This tart is our homage to those timeless recipes. You can learn more about the origins of this dish here.
A Healthful Indulgence
This savory tart is not only delicious, it also packs a nutritious punch. The leeks provide an excellent source of vitamins A and K, which are key for healthy vision and blood clotting respectively. In addition, the eggs, ham, and cheddar cheese in this recipe are all protein-rich ingredients, helping to keep you full and satisfied. You can learn more about the benefits of these ingredients here. It’s a wonderful marriage of tantalizing flavors and nutritional wealth.
A Dish for All Seasons
While the Leek, Cheese, and Ham Tart shares its roots with colder climates, it is a recipe that works well in every season. Imagine savoring a warm slice on a crisp autumn evening or enjoying a chilled piece on a hot summer afternoon. And whether you’re from the Rockies like me, or the bustling city, this tart is an invitation to slow down and savor the moment. If you’re looking for a side dish that can complement this tart, a simple salad or soup like Skillet-Roasted Chicken in Lemon Sauce would do the trick.
In conclusion, this recipe is more than just a compilation of ingredients for me. It represents comfort, fond memories, and a sense of home in the heart of Colorado. Whether you’re preparing it for a quiet dinner or a festive gathering, I hope it brings a touch of warmth and happiness to your table.
What You’ll Need
- 1 store-bought pastry crust
- 2 leeks, trimmed and finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cooked ham, chopped
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan assisted ovens). Roll out your store-bought pastry crust and place it in a greased tart tin. Push down gently to make sure it’s moulded to the shape of your tin then trim off any excess. Set this aside for now.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once heated, add in the finely sliced leeks and sauté until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step Three
Stir in the chopped ham into the pan with the caramelized leeks. Fry this for a couple more minutes then switch off the heat and let this cool for a bit.
Step Four
In a large mixing bowl, beat your eggs together with the heavy cream. Season this with salt and pepper to taste. Then add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir well until combined.
Step Five
Spoon your leek and ham mixture onto your pastry crust. Make sure it’s evenly distributed, then pour over your egg and cream mixture.
Step Six
Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese on top of the tart. Bake this in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the filling has set.
Step Seven
Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Leek, Cheese and Ham Tart!
