Spring Pea and Ricotta Tart
The Spring Pea and Ricotta Tart is a celebration of the fresh flavours of spring. The vibrant green of the peas contrasts beautifully with the creamy white of the ricotta, making it visually appealing. The subtle sweetness of the peas complements the rich and creamy ricotta, while the hint of lemon zest and fresh mint provides a zesty freshness to each bite. It's perfect for brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer for spring gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust or homemade if preferred
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling optional
Instructions
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a tart pan, trimming any excess. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, blend the ricotta, Parmesan, eggs, cream (or milk), garlic, and lemon zest until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. If using frozen, thaw them. Mix half of the peas into the ricotta mixture.
- Pour the ricotta and pea mixture into the pre-baked crust. Scatter the remaining peas on top.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until set and slightly golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before garnishing with chopped mint, a drizzle of olive oil, and optional pea shoots or microgreens.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
Health Benefits:
Green Peas: High in fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ricotta Cheese: Contains calcium, essential for bone health, and is a good source of protein. Did You Know & Roots and Tradition: Green Peas: Have been cultivated for nearly 7,000 years and were a staple in ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans.
Ricotta Cheese: An Italian whey cheese made from sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. The name "ricotta" means "recooked" in Italian, referencing the method of production by reheating the whey leftover from making other cheeses. Nutrients & Calories: (Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on exact measurements of ingredients and cooking method.) Serving: 1 slice (assuming the tart serves 8)
Calories: 240
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fibre: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Calcium (from ricotta and Parmesan): ~15% of the Daily Value (DV) The Spring Pea and Ricotta Tart is a celebration of the fresh flavours of spring. The vibrant green of the peas contrasts beautifully with the creamy white of the ricotta, making it visually appealing. The subtle sweetness of the peas complements the rich and creamy ricotta, while the hint of lemon zest and fresh mint provides a zesty freshness to each bite. It's perfect for brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer for spring gatherings.
Ricotta Cheese: Contains calcium, essential for bone health, and is a good source of protein. Did You Know & Roots and Tradition: Green Peas: Have been cultivated for nearly 7,000 years and were a staple in ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans.
Ricotta Cheese: An Italian whey cheese made from sheep, cow, goat, or buffalo milk. The name "ricotta" means "recooked" in Italian, referencing the method of production by reheating the whey leftover from making other cheeses. Nutrients & Calories: (Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on exact measurements of ingredients and cooking method.) Serving: 1 slice (assuming the tart serves 8)
Calories: 240
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fibre: 2g
Sugars: 3g
Calcium (from ricotta and Parmesan): ~15% of the Daily Value (DV) The Spring Pea and Ricotta Tart is a celebration of the fresh flavours of spring. The vibrant green of the peas contrasts beautifully with the creamy white of the ricotta, making it visually appealing. The subtle sweetness of the peas complements the rich and creamy ricotta, while the hint of lemon zest and fresh mint provides a zesty freshness to each bite. It's perfect for brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer for spring gatherings.