Description
This Fresh Tomato Ricotta Tart in Puff Pastry is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring a flaky puff pastry base topped with creamy ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and thinly sliced ripe tomatoes. Enhanced with garlic, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, this tart is baked to golden perfection, making it a perfect light meal or starter for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping and Garnish
- 2–3 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced thin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and transfer it carefully to the prepared baking sheet. Lightly score a 1/2-inch border around the edges of the pastry without cutting through the dough to define the tart perimeter.
- Make Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble Tart: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly within the scored border on the puff pastry, creating a creamy layer. Arrange the thinly sliced tomatoes on top of the ricotta in a single layer, slightly overlapping for full coverage. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomato slices to add richness and flavor.
- Bake the Tart: Place the assembled tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, indicating it is fully cooked and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil and thyme leaves on top to add a fresh herbal aroma and flavor.
Notes
- For added richness, consider adding dollops of pesto or drizzling balsamic glaze on top after baking.
- Heirloom or cherry tomatoes work excellently as alternatives to medium ripe tomatoes, providing different flavors and colors.
