Imagine a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a work of art - our Heirloom Tomato Tarts with Puff Pastry are precisely that culinary magic! These stunning French-inspired tarts blend the buttery, flaky layers of golden puff pastry with vibrant, juicy heirloom tomatoes and a creamy, rich cheese blend that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a gourmet experience, these tarts are not just a recipe, but a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Remove the puff pastry sheet from the refrigerator and let it thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cool.
- Gently unfold the pastry sheet and cut into 4 equal rectangular pieces using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
- Using a small knife, create a light border around each pastry piece, about 1/2 inch from the edge, without cutting completely through the pastry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly across each pastry piece, staying within the scored border.
- Arrange the heirloom tomato slices in an overlapping pattern on top of the cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the tomato slices.
- Drizzle olive oil across the tarts and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed, and the tomatoes are slightly roasted.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, just before serving.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or light main course, accompanied by a crisp green salad if desired.
Tips
- Choose ripe, colorful heirloom tomatoes for maximum flavor and visual appeal
- Ensure puff pastry is cold but pliable before working with it to achieve the best rise
- Use a sharp knife to score the pastry border to help create a beautiful, defined edge
- Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture in your tarts
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or oregano alongside the basil
- Allow tarts to cool slightly before serving to let the cheese set and pastry crisp up
- Select high-quality, fresh mozzarella and ricotta for the most luxurious taste experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 255kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
