Strawberry Custard Tart

Step 1

To make crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place oats, butter and honey/sugar in a food processor. Pulse while adding one tablespoon of ice water at a time, until the mixture forms a dough. Remove tart dough and place in an ungreased 12-inch tart pan {or 2 6-inch pans}. With your fingers, press the dough into the pan, taking care to push the crust into the indentations in the sides. Pat until the crust is even. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until crust is crispy and browned on the edges. Allow to cool.

Step 2

For the strawberry filling: In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries with balsamic vinegar and sugar.

Step 3

To make the whip: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the half and half until fluffy. Add a dollop of mascarpone at a time until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Mix in the vanilla bean paste and honey/sugar until incorporated. Mixture should be smooth, creamy and stiff like whipped cream.

Step 4

To assemble tart: Fill cooled tart shell with ¾ of the strawberry filling. Top with mascarpone whip and garnish with remaining strawberries and the basil and mint. Remove tart from the tart pan, slice and serve.