Savory secrets: Caramelized onion and apple tarts

Preparation time: 40 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes

Caramelized onion and apple tarts recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized onions (approx. 2 lbs or 900g)
• 2 large apples (approx. 1 lb or 450g) 
• 4 sheets of puff pastry (approx. 1 lb or 450g) 
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (approx. 30ml) 
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (approx. 15g) 
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (approx. 15ml)
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves (approx. 6g) 

Total calories per portion: 552

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Peel and thinly slice the onions and apples.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
4. Add the onions to the pan and cook for about 15 minutes, or until they become soft and start to caramelize.
5. Add the sugar, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the pan. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. While the onions are caramelizing, prepare the puff pastry sheets by placing them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the puff pastry sheets, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Arrange the apple slices on top of the onions and sprinkle with the fresh thyme leaves.
9. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
10. Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade caramelized onion and apple tarts!

Creating a healthier caramelized onion and apple tarts

You can easily adjust this caramelized onion and apple tarts recipe to be a little healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Firstly, consider reducing the amount of sugar by half when caramelizing the onions and apples. It may take a bit longer, however, the natural sweetness of the onions and apples will still create a beautiful caramelization.

You could also use whole wheat pastry flour for the crust, to add a dose of whole grains.

Lastly, try using a light cream cheese or a Greek yogurt spread instead of a full-fat one.

Storing your caramelized onion and apple tarts

After you’ve baked and cooled your caramelized onion and apple tarts, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature and should remain fresh for 2-3 days.

If you’d like to extend their shelf-life, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them.

If freezing, place the tarts on a baking sheet until fully frozen, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container.

Just thaw and bring to room temperature when ready to serve, or warm in the oven for a few minutes.

Pairings for caramelized onion and apple tarts

These caramelized onion and apple tarts make a delicious appetizer or dessert, and they pair beautifully with many dishes and drinks.

For dinner, consider a simple roast chicken or a succulent pork roast. Their sweet and savory flavors also make them a delightful contrast to a crisp, green salad.

When it comes to beverages, try a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a hearty craft beer with malty tones. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider would complement the flavors delightfully.