Pineapple Galette

If this were an ordinary year, my family would have been planning a trip to some warm location come fall and winter. But due to the current pandemic, we have been staying close to home and plan to do so for quite a while. So, since we can't be in the tropics, we are channeling tropical vibes and flavors in many of our dishes! 

This pineapple galette is one such dish. Filled with fresh pineapple, sweetened coconut flakes in the crust, and a good pinch of nutmeg, it is reminiscent of the homemade pineapple jam of my childhood in Trinidad - one that, as kids, we would slather unto toast for breakfast. As an added touch, I served it drizzled with a bit of caramel sauce, using this very easy recipe. Also, I am very proud to admit that my 5 year old, who is usually by ym side when I'm baking, offered the most helpful tip with the crust. Instead of trying to lift it unto the baking, simply place the baking sheet at the edge of the counter and gently slid the rolled out crust unto it. Easy squeezy, like he would say. 

Pineapple galette 

For the crust:

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour 

1/2 cup sweetened, shredded coconut 

5 tbsp butter, cut into cubed 

2 to 3 tbsp cold water

For the filling: 

2 cups sliced, fresh pineapple

1/3 cup brown sugar

2 tsp cinnamon 

1/2 tsp grater nutmeg 

2 tbsp cold cutter, cubed

To make the crust:

1. In a food processor, pulse the flour and shredded coconut together until you can no longer see whole shreds of coconut flakes. Add the cubed butter and continue pulsing until the mixture becomes crumbly and takes on the texture of course meal. With the motor running, add two to three tablespoons of ice cold water to the mixture, keeping the motor running just until the mixture begins coming together, not more than 20 to 30 seconds. 

2. Turn the mixture out unto a lightly floured surface, and using your hands bring together to form a ball. wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. 

To assemble the tart:

1. Mix the sugar and spices in a bowl and set aside. 

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll the crust out into a 10 inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick. 

3. Carefully transfer the crust unto a lined baking sheet. (Alternatively, since the crust can be a bit soft and tricky to work with,  tape a sheet of parchment paper (the size of your baking sheet) unto your work surface. and roll out the dough onto the paper. Then, remove and discard the tape, and transfer the parchment paper together with the crust unto your baking sheet.)

3. Arrange the pineapple slices on the tart crust, leaving about a 2 inch border all around. Sprinkle the sugar mixture on top of the pineapple and dot with the cubed butter. Fold the border up over the edge of the pineapple filling, making sure to leave much of the fruit uncovered. Bake in a 375 degree oven for about 50 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. 

Cherry Coconut Overnight Oats

Overnight oats is one of those perfect breakfast foods. It is quick and easy to make, and full of good properties such as fiber and protein, that magical nutrient combo that can keep you satiated until lunch time...on most days! 

For me, its appeal has to do also with its versatility. Overnight oats can be made with any combination of dried or fresh fruit plus additional flavorings: blueberry and almond, cinnamon and raisin, cherry and vanilla. Possible flavor combinations are endless. When it comes to the liquid ingredient, you can use any type of milk, it all depends on your preference or dietary restriction.  

This combination of cherry and coconut is one that I am currently enjoying on mornings. Shredded coconut adds just the right amount of sweetness that I am looking for, as well as additional fiber. And the protein? That comes from the soy milk. This  is a delicious and healthy breakfast that certainly keeps me full all morning. 

Cherry Coconut Overnight Oats

Makes 2 servings 

1 cup old fashioned rolled oats

1/3 cup dried cherries 

1/3 cup sweetened shredded coconut 

1/4 cup coconut yogurt

1 cup soy milk 

1. Mix all of the ingredients together. Place in a sealed container and refrigerate over night. 

2. The following morning, remove oats from he refrigerator and stir to determine if it needs additional liquid to reach desired consistency. Pour into serving bowl, and top with additional coconut flakes and fresh cherries, if desired.