Indulge in a taste of coastal elegance with our delightful Crab and Leek Tart! This French-inspired dish combines the delicate sweetness of crab meat with the subtle, earthy flavors of sautéed leeks, all enveloped in a flaky puff pastry shell. Perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or enjoying a sophisticated weeknight meal, this tart is sure to elevate your culinary repertoire. Ready in just under an hour, it’s the ideal recipe for those looking to savor the luxurious flavors of the sea without the fuss. Dive into our step-by-step guide and discover how to create this exquisite dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup crab meat, cooked
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator to soften slightly.
- Clean the leeks thoroughly by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing between the layers to remove any dirt. Chop the leeks into thin half-moon shapes.
- In a skillet, sauté the sliced leeks in a little butter over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Roll out the puff pastry and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan or baking sheet, gently pressing the edges to create a slight rim.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Spread the sautéed leeks evenly across the puff pastry base, then distribute the cooked crab meat on top of the leeks.
- Pour the egg and cream mixture over the leeks and crab, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set and slightly puffy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality crab meat for the best flavor. If possible, use lump crab meat for a more luxurious texture.
- Prepping the Leeks: Take your time cleaning the leeks, as dirt can hide between the layers. Rinse them thoroughly to ensure a clean and tasty filling.
- Sautéing Technique: When sautéing the leeks, avoid high heat to prevent them from browning. You want them soft and translucent, which enhances their sweetness.
- Puff Pastry Handling: Keep the puff pastry chilled until you're ready to use it. This will help achieve a flakier crust when baked.
- Egg and Cream Mixture: Whisk the eggs and cream until smooth to ensure a creamy filling. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the tart while it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden-brown crust and a set filling to ensure perfect results.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your tart warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 125mg