Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart

This Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart beautifully combines the sweetness of slowly caramelized onions with the creamy tang of goat cheese, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. This dish balances traditional French techniques with a modern twist, making it an elegant appetizer or a light main course. It's vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pastry.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh arugula (for serving, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.
3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the onions.
7. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a border. Brush the edges with the beaten egg.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
9. Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with fresh arugula on the side, if desired.