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### How to Make Cottage Cheese Fillo Tart
#### Step 1: Prepare the Fillo Pastry
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your tart will bake evenly and turn out crisp and golden.
2. **Brush the Fillo Pastry**: Take your fillo sheets and carefully lay them out on a clean surface. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each sheet with olive oil. Stack the sheets on top of each other—this layering technique will help create a sturdy base for your tart and give it that flaky, crispy texture.
3. **Layer the Fillo Sheets**: Place 6-8 sheets of fillo pastry in a tart pan, allowing the edges to overlap the sides of the pan. Gently press the sheets into the pan, forming a base. Don’t worry if the edges are uneven; they will add a rustic look to the tart.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Filling
1. **Combine the Filling Ingredients**: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, chopped parsley (if using), oregano or thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-combined. For extra creaminess and flavor, you can add some grated Parmesan or another hard cheese of your choice.
2. **Adjust the Consistency**: If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to loosen it up. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape but still spoonable.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Tart
1. **Fill the Pastry Shell**: Spoon the cottage cheese mixture into the prepared fillo pastry shell. Spread it evenly with a spatula, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. **Fold the Edges**: Gently fold the edges of the fillo pastry over the filling to create a rustic, open-faced tart. Brush the folded edges with a little more olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.
#### Step 4: Bake the Tart
1. **Bake**: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fillo pastry is golden brown and crispy and the filling is set. The top of the filling should be lightly browned, and the edges of the pastry should be crunchy and golden.
2. **Cool Slightly**: Once the tart is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the **Cottage Cheese Fillo Tart** warm or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or some fresh vegetables like tomatoes or arugula for a beautiful presentation. This tart pairs perfectly with a light salad or a glass of white wine for an elevated meal.
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### Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Fillo Tart
1. **Prevent soggy pastry**: To keep your fillo pastry crispy, make sure to drain the cottage cheese thoroughly before using it. You can even press it in a sieve to remove excess moisture. This will prevent the filling from making the pastry soggy as it bakes.
2. **Customize the Filling**: Feel free to get creative with your filling. Add sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or crumbled feta cheese for additional flavor. You can also sprinkle some seeds or nuts like sunflower or pine nuts on top for extra texture.
3. **Use Fresh or Frozen Fillo**: If you have fresh fillo pastry, great! But frozen fillo works just as well. Just be sure to thaw it completely and handle it gently, as fillo can tear easily.
4. **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the tart ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply assemble the tart, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and bake when you’re ready to serve.
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### Why This Recipe Works
The **Cottage Cheese Fillo Tart** is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The fillo pastry provides a light, crispy base, while the cottage cheese filling offers a creamy, savory contrast. The herbs and optional cheese elevate the flavor, making this tart both satisfying and indulgent without being overly heavy. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that each bite is full of fresh, wholesome taste.
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### Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer for guests, **Cottage Cheese Fillo Tart** is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that fits the bill. With a crunchy, buttery pastry and a creamy filling, this tart is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a light yet delicious meal, and with endless customization options, you can make it your own. Try this recipe and enjoy a savory delight that’s as impressive as it is delicious!
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