Go Back
–+ servings
Savory Apple and Onion Tart 1

Savory Apple and Onion Tart

This elegant tart transforms forgotten apples into a sophisticated meal that balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in perfect harmony. Featuring caramelized onions, crisp apples, and nutty Gruyère cheese on a flaky pastry crust, it's a delicious way to enjoy apples beyond desserts.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine European, French
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Large Skillet
  • Pastry Cutter

Ingredients
  

For the Pastry

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour substitute whole wheat for extra nutrition
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 8 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cubed
  • 4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling

  • 3 medium onions thinly sliced (sweet varieties like Vidalia work wonderfully)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 medium apples thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith provide ideal texture and flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves rosemary makes an excellent alternative
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese grated (can substitute with goat cheese or sharp cheddar)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. Sprinkle ice water over the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until the dough just holds together when squeezed.
  • Gather the dough and form it into a disk about 1-inch thick. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • While the dough chills, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until they're deeply golden and caramelized. If onions start to stick, add a tablespoon of water and scrape up the flavorful browned bits.
  • Core the apples and slice them thinly (about ⅛-inch thick).
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 12-14 inch circle about ⅛-inch thick. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Spread the Dijon mustard over the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edge. Sprinkle half of the Gruyère cheese over the mustard. Arrange the caramelized onions evenly over the cheese, then layer the apple slices on top in an overlapping pattern. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, the remaining cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
  • Fold the dough border over the filling, pleating as you go to create a rustic edge. Brush the exposed dough with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. For the final 5 minutes, you can drizzle a little honey over the apples if desired.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, try a whole wheat or gluten-free crust. Replace half the butter with cold coconut oil for heart-healthier fats.
The tart keeps well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes rather than microwaving.
The caramelized onions can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making prep much faster.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 7gFat: 18gSodium: 285mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8g
Keyword Apple Tart, Savory Galette, Caramelized Onions, Apple and Onion Tart, Rustic Tart
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!