Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry is a delicious, elegant dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bright, juicy flavor of fresh tomatoes, all nestled in a flaky, golden puff pastry crust. The ricotta filling is often flavored with herbs like basil or oregano, and the fresh tomatoes are arranged on top, sometimes with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking. The puff pastry bakes up perfectly crispy, making each bite a delightful combination of textures.
The first time I made Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry, I was looking for something light yet satisfying for a brunch gathering, and this tart was exactly what I had in mind. The creaminess of the ricotta paired so well with the fresh, slightly tangy tomatoes, and the puff pastry added a wonderful crunch. What I love most about this dish is how simple yet sophisticated it is—you can throw it together quickly, but it looks and tastes like a gourmet treat. Whether for a casual meal, a picnic, or a special occasion, Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry is always a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for:
- Brunch
- Light lunches
- Dinner parties
- Picnics
- Tomato lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry will become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Flavorful and Fresh: The balance of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes creates a burst of delicious flavors.
- Flaky, Buttery Crust: The puff pastry adds a light, flaky texture that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
- Simple Yet Elegant: The tart looks impressive with minimal effort, making it ideal for entertaining.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a fancy dinner, this tart fits right in.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Customizable Topping: You can add other veggies, such as spinach or zucchini, to change up the flavor.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh tomatoes and ricotta, this tart is light yet satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Option: This tart can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making it ideal for busy days.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hearty yet meat-free dish.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or cut into smaller pieces as an appetizer or snack.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour (including baking time)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Base:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
The Ricotta Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Topping:
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
- Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy, mild flavor that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- Puff Pastry: Adds a light, buttery texture that crisps up beautifully when baked.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, these tomatoes offer a burst of flavor to the tart.
- Olive Oil: Drizzled over the top to add richness and enhance the flavors of the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Puff Pastry Base:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface to fit a tart pan or baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the puff pastry with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano.
- Dock the Pastry: Use a fork to prick holes in the base of the pastry to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
- Pre-bake Pastry: Bake the puff pastry for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pre-baked puff pastry base.
Assemble the Tart:
- Add Tomato Slices: Arrange the thinly sliced tomatoes on top of the ricotta filling, slightly overlapping in a circular pattern.
- Season the Tomatoes: Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Return the tart to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the tomatoes are tender.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry:
- As a Main Course: Serve the tart as the main dish alongside a crisp green salad.
- As an Appetizer: Cut into smaller slices and serve as a savory appetizer at dinner parties.
- With a Side of Soup: Pair with a light vegetable soup for a well-rounded meal.
- With a Side of Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables for a hearty, vegetable-packed meal.
- For a Picnic: Pack slices of the tart in a picnic basket for an easy and delicious outdoor meal.
- For Brunch: Serve as part of a brunch spread alongside fruit and croissants.
- With a Green Salad: Serve with a side of arugula or mixed greens dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
- For Light Lunches: A slice of this tart with some olives and bread makes a perfect light lunch.
- For Entertaining: Present the tart on a large platter for a gorgeous and delicious addition to your table.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Tomatoes: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, in-season tomatoes.
- Blind Bake Pastry: Make sure to pre-bake the puff pastry so it stays crisp under the ricotta filling.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Use a Tart Pan: A tart pan with a removable bottom makes it easier to slice and serve the tart.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the tart in advance and bake it just before serving for a stress-free meal.
Recipe Variations
- Spinach and Ricotta Tart: Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta filling for a nutrient-packed twist.
- Herb-Infused Crust: Sprinkle the puff pastry with a mix of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for extra flavor.
- Cheddar and Tomato Tart: Replace the Parmesan with sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Caramelized Onion Tart: Add a layer of caramelized onions for a sweet and savory contrast to the tomatoes.
- Goat Cheese Tart: Swap the ricotta for tangy goat cheese for a richer flavor.
- Zucchini and Tomato Tart: Layer thin slices of zucchini with the tomatoes for added color and texture.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free ricotta and replace the egg with a flax egg for a vegan version.
Special Equipment
- Tart Pan: For easy assembly and clean slicing.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry evenly.
- Electric Mixer: Optional, but helpful for smoothing the ricotta filling.
- Sharp Knife: To slice the tomatoes and cut the tart cleanly.
- Basting Brush: For brushing the olive oil on the pastry.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works just as well. Thaw it according to the package instructions before using. - How long does this tart last?
The tart can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, the tart can be frozen before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. - Can I add meat to this tart?
Yes, you can add cooked sausage or bacon to the filling for extra protein. - Can I use store-bought ricotta?
Yes, store-bought ricotta is fine for this recipe. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. - Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. - What’s the best way to slice the tart?
Use a sharp knife and a sawing motion to cut through the puff pastry cleanly. - Can I skip the basil garnish?
You can skip the basil if you prefer, or use fresh thyme or parsley as an alternative. - Can I make this tart gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version. - How do I keep the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Be sure to pre-bake the pastry and avoid overfilling it with moist ingredients to keep it crispy.
Conclusion
Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flaky pastry, creamy ricotta filling, and juicy tomatoes, it offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to suit various tastes, this tart is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the burst of freshness in every bite!