Nestled in the heart of South America, Argentina boasts a culinary tapestry woven with diverse influences, and one dish that stands out as a true embodiment of this rich gastronomic heritage is the Argentine Tarta. A symphony of flavors and textures, the Argentine Tarta is a savory delight that has graced tables and gatherings for generations, becoming a beloved staple in Argentine households.

In this culinary journey, we'll unravel the layers of this delectable dish, exploring its history, ingredients, and the cultural significance it holds in Argentine society. From its humble origins to the vibrant variations found across the country, join us as we delve into the world of Argentine Tarta, where each bite tells a story of tradition, flavor, and the warmth of shared meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or make your own if you prefer)
• 200g ham, diced
• 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Prepare the Crust: If you're using a pre-made crust, place it in a tart pan. If making your own, roll out the dough and fit it into the tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and red bell pepper until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the Tart: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly over the tart crust. Add the diced ham on top and finish by sprinkling the shredded mozzarella.

Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the ham, cheese, and vegetables in the tart crust.

Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the filling is set.

Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature.

This Tarta de Jamón y Queso is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy the layers of flavors that characterize this classic Argentine dish!

Nutritional Values:

While I can't provide exact nutritional values for the specific brands or variations of ingredients you use, I can offer approximate values based on common nutritional data. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and the actual nutritional content may vary based on the specific products you use:

Tarta de Jamón y Queso (Per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Pre-made pie crust (1/6th of a standard crust):

• Calories: 120-150
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fat: 7-9g
• Protein: 1-2g

Ham (200g):

• Calories: 200-250
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g
• Fat: 12-15g
• Protein: 20-25g

benefits:

• Protein: Ham is a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Vitamins and Minerals: It contains vitamins such as B6, B12, niacin, and minerals like zinc and phosphorus.

Mozzarella cheese (200g):

• Calories: 600-800
• Carbohydrates: 4-8g
• Fat: 40-60g
• Protein: 40-50g

benefits:

• Calcium: Mozzarella is rich in calcium, contributing to bone health and proper functioning of nerves and muscles.
• Protein: Provides additional protein, helping with satiety and muscle maintenance.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 40-50
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Protein: 1-2g

benefits:

• Fiber: Onions are a good source of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
• Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants, such as quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Red bell pepper (1 medium):

• Calories: 30-40
• Carbohydrates: 7-9g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Protein: 1-2g

benefits:

• Vitamin C: Red bell peppers are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
• Fiber: Like onions, they contribute to the overall fiber content of the dish.

Eggs (4 large):

• Calories: 320-360
• Carbohydrates: 2-4g
• Fat: 20-24g
• Protein: 28-32g

benefits:

• Protein: Eggs are a complete protein source, containing all essential amino acids.
• Vitamins: They are rich in vitamins such as B12, riboflavin, and folate.

Milk (1 cup):

• Calories: 80-120
• Carbohydrates: 8-12g
• Fat: 4-8g
• Protein: 4-8g

benefits:

• Calcium: Milk is an excellent source of calcium, promoting bone health.
• Vitamin D: Fortified milk provides vitamin D, crucial for calcium absorption and immune function.

Olive oil (for sautéing, 1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and may help reduce inflammation.
• Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E, that protect cells from damage.

These values provide a rough estimate, and actual nutritional content may vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. For more accurate information, refer to the nutrition labels on the packaging of each product.