Savory tart with chickpea flour, escarole and olives

in , ,

Oven aroma, Mediterranean flavors and a rustic homemade base: this savory tart with chickpea flour and escarole is the perfect solution when you want something simple but full of character. Simple and nutritious, ideal for those who prefer a homemade crust instead of the classic ready-made sheets.
This version is a variant of the traditional pâte brisée: no butter, but extra-virgin olive oil and a portion of chickpea flour that makes the dough more rustic, slightly savory and naturally higher in protein.
The filling of escarole, Gaeta olives, capers and anchovies calls to mind the typical flavors of Southern Italy, particularly Neapolitan tradition, creating a perfect balance between saltiness and the vegetable’s sweetness.
It’s an ideal savory tart for:
a healthy and filling dinner,
a work lunchbox,
a meal away from home,
or to serve in slices during a buffet.

Do you love this savory tart? Then take a look at these recipes:

Savory tart with chickpea flour, escarole and olives
  • Difficulty: Very easy
  • Cost: Very inexpensive
  • Rest time: 30 Minutes
  • Preparation time: 25 Minutes
  • Cooking time: 30 Minutes
  • Portions: 8 people
  • Cooking methods: Oven
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Seasonality: Autumn, Winter and Spring

Ingredients to make the Savory tart with chickpea flour, escarole and olives

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chickpea flour
  • 3.4 fl oz water
  • 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • salt
  • 2.2 lbs escarole (endive)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp capers, salted (rinse well)
  • 3 fillets anchovies in oil
  • chili pepper (optional)
  • 7 oz provolone (or other cheese)
  • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Tools to make the Savory tart with chickpea flour, escarole and olives

  • Bowl
  • Fork
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Tart pan
  • Pot
  • Grater

How to prepare the Savory tart with chickpea flour, escarole and olives

  • Pour the water into a bowl and add the extra-virgin olive oil. Mix with a fork, then add the chickpea flour little by little, continuing to stir.

    Mixing the ingredients in a bowl
  • Then add the all-purpose flour and salt. When the dough starts to come together, work it with your hands until you get a soft, homogeneous ball.
    Cover with plastic wrap or a plate and let rest for 30 minutes.

    Kneading by hand
  • In a large pot sauté the garlic with the oil.
    Add the anchovies, pitted olives, well-rinsed capers and, if you like, a pinch of chili pepper.
    Add the escarole (cleaned) and let it wilt over medium heat until tender and dry.
    At the end of cooking adjust the salt and remove the garlic cloves.

  • Roll out the dough with a rolling pin on parchment paper until you get a thin sheet.

    Rolling out the dough with the rolling pin
  • Line a 9.5-inch tart pan leaving the parchment paper under the base. Prick the bottom with a fork.

    Lining a tart pan with the dough
  • Spread the escarole filling evenly and finish with coarsely grated provolone.

    Distributing the escarole filling

Bake at 356°F for about 30 minutes, until the surface is golden.
Let cool slightly before slicing.

Storage

Keep in the refrigerator for 2–3 days in an airtight container.

You can freeze it already baked and cut into slices.

Also great the next day, lightly reheated.

Tips

Squeeze the escarole well to avoid releasing too much water.

If you want a flakier crust, you can slightly increase the oil.

For a lighter version, reduce the cheese on top.

Variations

Summer: zucchini and zucchini flowers.

Autumn: pumpkin and caramelized onions.

More melty: with scamorza.

Vegetarian: omit the anchovies.

Vegan: without cheese, substitute with a plant-based alternative.

FAQ (Questions and Answers)

  • Does the crust taste strongly of chickpeas?

    No, the flavor is delicate and well balanced with the all-purpose flour.

  • Can I use only chickpea flour?

    Yes, but the dough will be crumblier and less elastic.

  • Can I prepare it in advance?

    Absolutely yes, in fact it’s even more flavorful the next day.

Author image

lericettedisimo

Hello and welcome! Here you will find delicious and reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, along with step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook wonderful dishes at home. You will find traditional recipes as well as modern options, vegetarian, vegan, low sugar, gluten-free, and lactose-free.

Read the Blog