Makes one 9-inch tart
In many regions of the United States, fresh pasteurized lump crabmeat is readily available April through November, but it also can be purchased flash-frozen or canned. Here the delicate, sweet flavor of the crab is complemented by mild chives, sweet red bell peppers, and Old Bay Seasoning—the traditional flavors of a crab cake in a crispy cornmeal crust.
Ingredients
- Cornmeal Pastry Dough, fitted into a 9-inch tart or quiche pan and chilled
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 3/4 cup grated Gruyère
- 3/4 cup (4 oz) lump crabmeat
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and set the rack in the lowest position.
- Line the chilled crust with lightly oiled or sprayed parchment and fill with weights. Partially blind bake the crust until it is a matte, pale golden color, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer the crust to a cooling rack and remove the weights and parchment. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
- In a medium sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the red peppers and sauté for 5 to 10 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream, eggs, and Old Bay and whisk until thick and smooth.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the bottom of the prepared crust and arrange the sautéed peppers and the crabmeat in an even layer over the cheese. Pour the heavy cream mixture over the peppers and crabmeat layer and sprinkle it with the remaining cheese and the chives.
- Bake until the center of the tart is just set and the edges are golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
- Remove the tart from the oven and place it on a cooling rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
tart // quiche // crab // crabmeat // shellfish // peppers // gruyere // swiss cheese // cheese // savory pie // mother’s day // easter // brunch // lunch // potluck // pot luck // make ahead
