Imagine a golden, flaky puff pastry canvas topped with vibrant, juicy tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and fragrant fresh basil - a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. This Tomato Basil and Cheese Tart is not just a recipe; it's an experience that combines simplicity with gourmet elegance, perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a luxurious yet effortless meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges of the pastry, creating a frame that will help the edges puff up and create a raised border.
- In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly within the scored border of the puff pastry, leaving the edges clear.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes in an overlapping pattern on top of the cheese mixture, covering the surface evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the tomatoes are slightly roasted.
- Remove from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves over the hot tart. The heat will help release the basil's aromatic oils.
- Let the tart cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the pastry to set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into squares or wedges and serve warm as an appetizer or light main course.
Tips
- Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the most intense flavor and best presentation.
- Make sure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold for the flakiest results.
- Don't skip scoring the pastry border - it's the secret to that beautiful, puffy edge.
- Use fresh basil leaves just before serving to maximize their aromatic impact.
- Let the tart rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the pastry to set and make cutting easier.
- For extra flavor, try adding a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
- Serve as an appetizer, light lunch, or paired with a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
