Introduction: Ready for a Rustic, Summery Tart?
Craving a deliciously simple dish that showcases summer’s best tomatoes? This Savory Tomato Tart is your perfect choice! Featuring flaky puff pastry, a creamy ricotta filling infused with garlic and herbs, and juicy heirloom tomato slices, this tart is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect for brunches, light dinners, or summer gatherings, it’s both elegant and easy to make. Inspired by your love for veggie-forward dishes like End of Summer Cobb Salad and Chopped Italian Salad Pizza, this recipe is naturally vegetarian and adaptable for gluten-free diets. Ready to bake a stunning tart? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Savory Tomato Tart is a Must-Try
This Savory Tomato Tart combines buttery, golden puff pastry with a creamy, herb-infused ricotta filling and fresh tomato slices, baked to perfection. The raised pastry edges keep the filling neatly contained, while the tomatoes add a juicy, colorful topping. What makes it special? It’s a vegetarian, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in about 45 minutes, naturally adaptable for gluten-free diets, and perfect for showcasing seasonal tomatoes in a rustic yet elegant presentation.
- Time Requirement: About 45 minutes total (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes baking).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Perfect for beginners or casual gatherings.
- Why It’s Special: It’s a vegetarian tart with vibrant summer flavors, adaptable for gluten-free diets.
This tomato tart is a fresh, elegant treat that’s sure to impress. Let’s get baking!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Savory Tomato Tart. Each ingredient adds to the flaky, creamy, and vibrant magic.
- Tomatoes (3 medium, thickly sliced, preferably heirloom): Provide juicy, colorful topping.
- Salt (2 tsp, plus more for seasoning): Draws out tomato moisture and seasons the tart.
- Puff-Pastry Dough (2 store-bought sheets): Forms the flaky, golden crust.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, rich filling.
- Egg (1): Binds the ricotta filling for structure.
- Garlic Clove (1, minced): Adds savory depth.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Brings classic Italian herbaceous notes.
- Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Adds fresh, earthy flavor.
- Fresh Basil (⅓ cup, chopped, plus more for finishing): Offers vibrant, sweet herbaceousness.
- Black Pepper (to taste, freshly ground): Enhances flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Tomatoes: Use Roma, beefsteak, or cherry tomatoes (halved) if heirlooms are unavailable.
- Puff Pastry: Swap with gluten-free puff pastry or phyllo dough for gluten-free diets.
- Ricotta: Replace with goat cheese, mascarpone, or dairy-free ricotta for vegan.
- Herbs: Swap oregano with thyme or rosemary; use cilantro or dill instead of parsley.
- Egg: Omit for vegan and increase ricotta to 1¼ cups for similar texture (may be less firm).
- Add-Ins: Include ¼ cup caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, or sliced olives for extra flavor.
- Keto Adjustment: Use a keto-friendly crust (e.g., almond flour-based) and reduce tomatoes to 2 for lower carbs (~5g net carbs per serving).
- Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Savory Tomato Tart is straightforward, with a simple assembly and baking process. Follow these steps for a perfect tart every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Line one baking sheet with parchment paper.
Tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even baking; parchment prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prep the Tomatoes
- Line a second baking sheet with 3–4 layers of paper towels.
- Place 3 medium tomatoes, thickly sliced, on the towels and sprinkle evenly with 2 tsp salt.
- Cover with additional paper towels to absorb moisture and prevent a soggy tart.
Tip: Slice tomatoes about ¼-inch thick; let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release excess juice.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- On a lightly floured surface, place 2 sheets of puff-pastry dough side by side and gently press them together to join.
- Roll out the dough into a single rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick.
- Roll the dough onto your rolling pin and unfurl it onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cut a 1-inch-wide strip from each side of the rectangle.
- Lightly brush the edges of the dough with water and place the strips on top to form a raised border.
- Trim any excess dough with a knife and chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Tip: Roll dough evenly to avoid thin spots; chill for 10–15 minutes to keep the pastry flaky.
Step 4: Make the Ricotta Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 egg, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp dried oregano, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, and ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil until smooth.
Tip: Whisk thoroughly to blend egg and ricotta; taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Tart
- Spread the ricotta mixture evenly across the center of the chilled puff-pastry crust, staying within the raised borders.
- Arrange the salted tomato slices on top, overlapping slightly to cover most of the ricotta.
- Season the surface with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Tip: Pat tomatoes dry before arranging to avoid excess moisture; overlap for a full, attractive topping.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the tart cool slightly (5–10 minutes) for easier slicing.
- Garnish with extra chopped fresh basil and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tip: Check crust color through the oven window; use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean slices.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Savory Tomato Tart
Making this Savory Tomato Tart is all about creating a flaky, flavorful dish with vibrant textures. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Prep Tomatoes Well: Salt and drain tomatoes to avoid a soggy crust.
- Shape Pastry Carefully: Create a sturdy border to hold the filling securely.
- Spread Filling Evenly: Ensure ricotta covers the base for consistent flavor.
- Arrange Tomatoes Artfully: Overlap slices for a beautiful, full topping.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve on the baking sheet for a rustic look or transfer to a platter for elegance.
- Pair with a keto-friendly side like a cucumber salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garnish with extra basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a polished finish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This tart is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead for convenience. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as puff pastry and tomatoes lose texture.
- Reheating:
- Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to crisp the crust.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent a soggy crust.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep ricotta filling and slice tomatoes up to 1 day ahead; store separately in the fridge.
- Assemble and bake the tart fresh for best texture.
- Salt and drain tomatoes just before assembling to avoid excess moisture.
Tip: Add fresh basil garnish after reheating to restore vibrancy.
Recipe Variations
This Savory Tomato Tart is versatile, drawing on your love for vibrant, veggie-forward dishes like Chopped Italian Salad Pizza and Shredded Thai Salad with Avocado. Here are some fun ideas:
- Keto Tomato Tart: Use a keto-friendly crust (e.g., almond flour-based), reduce tomatoes to 2, and use full-fat ricotta (~5g net carbs per serving).
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry or a gluten-free pie crust.
- Vegan Version: Replace ricotta with dairy-free ricotta and omit egg (increase ricotta to 1¼ cups); ensure puff pastry is vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Tomato Tart: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the ricotta filling.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add ¼ cup crumbled feta, olives, or roasted red peppers to the filling.
Tip: Serve with a side of keto-friendly garlic bread (almond flour-based) or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flair.
Conclusion: A Rustic, Summery Treat to Love
Savory Tomato Tart is the perfect way to enjoy a fresh, flavorful dish that showcases summer’s best tomatoes. With its flaky puff pastry, creamy ricotta filling, and vibrant tomato topping, it’s a dish that’s as elegant as it is delicious. Perfect for brunches, light dinners, or summer gatherings, this tart is sure to become a favorite. Play with the variations, customize with your favorite herbs, and savor every flaky, creamy bite. What’s your favorite way to enjoy this tomato tart? Share your ideas in the comments and let us know how it turned out!
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Savory Tomato Tart Recipe
Description
Craving a deliciously simple dish that showcases summer’s best tomatoes? This Savory Tomato Tart is your perfect choice! Featuring flaky puff pastry, a creamy ricotta filling infused with garlic and herbs, and juicy heirloom tomato slices, this tart is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Savory Tomato Tart. Each ingredient adds to the flaky, creamy, and vibrant magic.
- Tomatoes (3 medium, thickly sliced, preferably heirloom): Provide juicy, colorful topping.
- Salt (2 tsp, plus more for seasoning): Draws out tomato moisture and seasons the tart.
- Puff-Pastry Dough (2 store-bought sheets): Forms the flaky, golden crust.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Creates a creamy, rich filling.
- Egg (1): Binds the ricotta filling for structure.
- Garlic Clove (1, minced): Adds savory depth.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Brings classic Italian herbaceous notes.
- Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Adds fresh, earthy flavor.
- Fresh Basil (⅓ cup, chopped, plus more for finishing): Offers vibrant, sweet herbaceousness.
- Black Pepper (to taste, freshly ground): Enhances flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Tomatoes: Use Roma, beefsteak, or cherry tomatoes (halved) if heirlooms are unavailable.
- Puff Pastry: Swap with gluten-free puff pastry or phyllo dough for gluten-free diets.
- Ricotta: Replace with goat cheese, mascarpone, or dairy-free ricotta for vegan.
- Herbs: Swap oregano with thyme or rosemary; use cilantro or dill instead of parsley.
- Egg: Omit for vegan and increase ricotta to 1¼ cups for similar texture (may be less firm).
- Add-Ins: Include ¼ cup caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, or sliced olives for extra flavor.
- Keto Adjustment: Use a keto-friendly crust (e.g., almond flour-based) and reduce tomatoes to 2 for lower carbs (~5g net carbs per serving).
- Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Line one baking sheet with parchment paper.
Tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even baking; parchment prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prep the Tomatoes
- Line a second baking sheet with 3–4 layers of paper towels.
- Place 3 medium tomatoes, thickly sliced, on the towels and sprinkle evenly with 2 tsp salt.
- Cover with additional paper towels to absorb moisture and prevent a soggy tart.
Tip: Slice tomatoes about ¼-inch thick; let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release excess juice.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- On a lightly floured surface, place 2 sheets of puff-pastry dough side by side and gently press them together to join.
- Roll out the dough into a single rectangle, about ⅛-inch thick.
- Roll the dough onto your rolling pin and unfurl it onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cut a 1-inch-wide strip from each side of the rectangle.
- Lightly brush the edges of the dough with water and place the strips on top to form a raised border.
- Trim any excess dough with a knife and chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Tip: Roll dough evenly to avoid thin spots; chill for 10–15 minutes to keep the pastry flaky.
Step 4: Make the Ricotta Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 egg, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp dried oregano, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, and ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil until smooth.
Tip: Whisk thoroughly to blend egg and ricotta; taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Tart
- Spread the ricotta mixture evenly across the center of the chilled puff-pastry crust, staying within the raised borders.
- Arrange the salted tomato slices on top, overlapping slightly to cover most of the ricotta.
- Season the surface with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Tip: Pat tomatoes dry before arranging to avoid excess moisture; overlap for a full, attractive topping.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the tart cool slightly (5–10 minutes) for easier slicing.
- Garnish with extra chopped fresh basil and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tip: Check crust color through the oven window; use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean slices.
FAQs
1. Can I use other tomatoes?
Yes! Use Roma, beefsteak, or halved cherry tomatoes if heirlooms are unavailable; adjust slicing thickness accordingly.
2. Is this dish keto-friendly?
With puff pastry and tomatoes, it’s not keto-friendly (~20–25g net carbs per serving). Use a keto crust and fewer tomatoes for a keto version.
3. Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free ricotta, omit egg (increase ricotta), and ensure puff pastry is vegan-friendly.
4. Why is my tart soggy?
- Salt and drain tomatoes thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Ensure puff pastry is chilled before baking for a flaky crust.
- Avoid overfilling with ricotta to prevent spillover.
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prep ricotta filling and tomatoes up to 1 day ahead; assemble and bake fresh for best texture.
6. How long does it last?
It lasts in the fridge for up to 3 days; avoid freezing due to texture changes.
7. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Try goat cheese, mascarpone, or mozzarella instead of ricotta for varied flavor.
8. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve warm or at room temperature on a platter, paired with a keto-friendly salad or grilled veggies, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil.