Crafting a Butternut Squash Galette with Caramelized Onion involves more than just following a recipe; it’s an exploration into the heart of comfort food. As the weather turns cold, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a savory galette to make a house feel like a home. This dish, perfect as a side or a vegetarian dinner, combines the sweet, earthy tones of butternut squash and the deep, rich flavors of caramelized onions, all encased in a herbed flavored crust. The process begins with the roasting of the squash, a step that can be done in advance to save time. The crust, arguably the favorite part of any galette, gains its flakiest texture from a method that involves rolling it out on a baking sheet without fussing over creating a pretty pie crust.
There’s a certain joy in experimenting with the layers of unique flavors that this dish offers. From the baked crumble of the squash to the savory casserole-like filling, every bite is a testament to the effort and care put into its creation. The hard exterior of the squash, once conquered with a sharp knife and some determination, gives way to a tender, flavorful interior that melds perfectly with the herbs and extra flavor from the apple and pear if you choose to add sweet fruit fillings. Yet, the simplicity of finding ingredients, with squash readily available in the produce section of most groceries, often already cubed for convenience, makes this dish accessible to all. Whether served as part of a larger meal with salads and sides or enjoyed on its own, this galette, much like the Chicken Pot Pie Galette and Tomato Galette, quickly becomes one of the family favorites.
Why you’ll love it
- Great flavor. The caramelized onions combined with butternut squash are amazing. If you ask me, anything with caramelized onions just can’t be bad.
- Works great for leftovers!
- Simple enough for dinners at home but also an impressive dish for a casual brunch or lunch for guests.
What You’ll Need
To craft this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: The base for your crust, offering structure and flakiness.
- Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors of your galette.
- Butter: Provides richness and creates those desirable flaky layers in the crust.
- Fresh basil and oregano (dried can be substituted): These herbs infuse the crust with aromatic flavors, complementing the filling.
- Apple cider vinegar: A secret ingredient to ensure your crust has the perfect texture.
- Butternut squash: The star of the show, offering a sweet, nutty flavor that’s irresistible.
- Alternative option: Winter squashes can be used if butternut is unavailable.
- Olive oil (or neutral oil as a substitute): For roasting the squash and sautéing the onions, adding moisture and richness.
- Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla: These varieties caramelize beautifully, adding depth and sweetness.
- Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch to introduce a subtle heat, balancing the dish.
- Fontina cheese: Melty and gooey, it brings all the components together harmoniously.
- Fresh thyme: Its lemony and earthy notes are a perfect match for the squash and onions.
With these ingredients, you’re set to create a comforting and savory galette that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
How to Make a Rustic Butternut Squash Tart
Creating a rustic butternut squash tart starts with the foundation: the crust. Combine flour, a hint of sugar, salt, and herbs in a food processor for a quick blend. Add butter in clumps and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. With a stream of cold water and a dash of vinegar, pulse again until the dough just begins to clump together. If you prefer the touch of tradition, a pastry cutter offers an equally effective method. Shape the dough into round disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This pie crust is not just any crust; it’s the base for an unforgettable galette.
For the filling, roast squash chunks tossed in olive oil until they’re tender and golden. Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium-low heat, cook onions until soft and tender, enhancing their sweetness with a sprinkle of sugar and a pinch of cayenne pepper. The transformation of these ingredients in the heat is where the magic happens, turning them soft, golden brown, and bursting with flavor.
To assemble, roll out the dough into a circle, and spread the mixture of squash and caramelized onions in the center, leaving a border. Dot with cheese and sprinkle with thyme for that herby punch. The edges are then folded over, encapsulating the filling in a rustic embrace. Before baking, a brush of cream on the crust ensures a golden brown finish.
Bake until the aromas fill your kitchen, and the edges of the tart stand proudly golden brown. Letting it stand for a few minutes before serving is crucial; it’s not just about cooling, it’s about anticipation building.
This tart, with its blend of sweet squash, savory onions, herby crust, and melted cheese, becomes more than a meal; it’s a warm, comforting embrace on a plate. Whether as a side or the star of the meal, it promises to be a delightful experience, from the first buttery flake to the last savory bite.
How to Store
Preserving the deliciousness of a Butternut Squash Galette with Caramelized Onion for later enjoyment requires just a few simple steps. For leftovers, tightly wrap the galette or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The fridge serves as a perfect short-term home, keeping your vegetarian galette tasty for up to five days. For longer storage, the freezer offers sanctuary for up to three months, ensuring you have a delightful meal ready whenever the craving strikes.
When you’re ready to relive the experience, reheating is effortless. If frozen, allow the galette to thaw overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°, place the galette on a baking tray, and heat until it’s thoroughly heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This process revives the galette, bringing back its crispy crust and melded flavors, almost as if it were fresh from the oven.
Can I Make Dough for the Galette in Advance?
Absolutely! Preparing the dough for your Butternut Squash Galette with Caramelized Onion ahead of time can be a game-changer, especially when you’re planning to impress guests or simply want to ease your cooking process. You can make the dough up to 48 hours in advance, which not only helps you get ahead of the game but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully in the fridge. After preparing, wrap it tightly in plastic to prevent it from drying out. If you find the dough has become too firm to roll out after refrigeration, let it soften on the counter for about an hour before you start to work with it. This little trick ensures that your dough will be at the perfect consistency for adding the filling and crafting your galette.
This make-ahead strategy not only simplifies the process but also enhances the texture and taste of your galette, making it a standout dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this approach to preparing the galette dough in advance offers flexibility and convenience, ensuring that your culinary creation will be a success without the last-minute rush.
Is Galette Served Hot or Cold?
The Butternut Squash Galette with Caramelized Onion is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways, depending on personal preference and occasion. Typically, a savory galette such as this one is best served warm, straight from the oven, where its crust is at its flakiest and the filling is deliciously gooey. Serving it warm not only enhances its flavor but also makes it a comforting choice for cooler weather. The warmth elevates the sweetness of the butternut squash and the savory depth of the caramelized onions, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
However, this galette is also delightful when eaten at room temperature, making it a convenient option for picnics, potlucks, or easy lunches. While the flavor profile changes slightly as it cools, becoming more subtle, it remains a delicious and satisfying meal. Cold serving is less common, as it tends to mute the flavors somewhat, but it can still be a refreshing choice during the warmer months. Ultimately, whether you prefer your galette warm, at room temperature, or cold, this dish offers a flexible and flavorful experience that can be tailored to suit any preference or dining occasion.
Conclusion
The Butternut Squash Galette with Caramelized Onion offers a delightful culinary experience, whether served warm, at room temperature, or even cold. Its versatility makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, from a cozy dinner at home to a shared meal at gatherings. The rich flavors of the butternut squash and caramelized onions, encased in a flaky, herbed crust, provide a satisfying and gourmet experience for both the novice and the seasoned cook. This galette stands as a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special, making it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a touch of warmth and flavor to their table.
FAQs:
Q1. Can I make the dough for the galette in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. Let it soften at room temperature for about an hour if it’s too firm to roll out.
Q2. Is the galette served hot or cold?
This galette is versatile and can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or cold. Serving it warm is recommended to fully appreciate the melding of flavors, but it’s also delightful at room temperature or cold for convenience or personal preference.
Q3. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust as a time-saving alternative. However, making your own crust with herbs adds a unique flavor that complements the filling beautifully.
Q4. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze the galette for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Q5. Can I substitute butternut squash with another type of squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is preferred for its sweet and nutty flavor, other winter squashes like kabocha or acorn squash can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of squash you choose.
