Herbed Ricotta Tomato Tart: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Summer Entertaining

Herbed Ricotta Tomato Tart is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of garden tomatoes and the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in a flaky pastry crust. This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also carries a touch of Italian culinary tradition, where tarts and savory pies have been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of herbs adds a fragrant note that elevates the dish, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a sophisticated gathering with friends.

People love this Herbed Ricotta Tomato Tart for its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with the juicy tomatoes, while the herbs provide a burst of freshness that makes each bite a delight. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made puff pastry sheet (thawed if frozen)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Flour (for dusting)

Preparing the Filling

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. 2. Use a fork or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. 3. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. 4. Set the ricotta mixture aside while you prepare the puff pastry.

Preparing the Puff Pastry

5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 6. On a clean, floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases and to make it slightly larger. This will help it fit into your tart pan better. 7. Carefully transfer the rolled-out pastry to a tart pan (about 9 inches in diameter) or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 8. Gently press the pastry into the corners and up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess pastry hanging over the edges with a sharp knife. 9. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom of the pastry. This will prevent it from puffing up too much while baking.

Assembling the Tart

10. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared pastry shell. 11. Next, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the ricotta mixture. You can place them cut-side up for a beautiful presentation. 12. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes to enhance their flavor while baking. 13. If you have any leftover herbs, feel free to sprinkle them on top for added color and flavor.

Finishing Touches

14. In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. 15. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This will give the tart a beautiful golden color when baked. 16. If you like, you can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top of the tomatoes for added flavor.

Baking the Tart

17. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the tomatoes are slightly blistered. 18. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t over-brown. If the edges are browning too quickly, you can cover them with a strip of aluminum foil.

Cooling and Serving

19. Once the tart is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. 20. Carefully remove the tart from the pan and transfer it to a serving platter. 21. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. 22. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and slice it into wedges for serving.

Storage Tips

23. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 24. To reheat, place the tart in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This Herbed Ricotta Tomato Tart is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes makes it a perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. Enjoy making this delightful tart, and don’t hesitate to get creative with the toppings or herbs based on what you have on hand!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Herbed Ricotta Tomato Tart is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful harmony of flavors that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a stunning appetizer at a dinner party, or even as a savory breakfast option, this tart is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing meal, or serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine for a sophisticated touch. You can also experiment with different herbs or add ingredients like olives or roasted red peppers to customize the tart to your taste. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Herbed Ricotta Tomato Tart a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you decided to make. Cooking is all about exploration and enjoyment, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

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