This Rustic Tomato Cheese Tart is a delightful dish that combines fresh tomatoes and creamy cheese in a flaky pastry. It’s perfect for a special dinner or a casual lunch!
Trust me, every bite is a burst of flavor, and it looks so pretty that you’ll want to show it off. I love serving it warm, and it pairs perfectly with a simple salad—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the tart! It gives a flaky, buttery base. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought is perfect! For a healthier version, try using phyllo dough, but it will be a bit less rich.
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes are key here. Heirloom tomatoes add a beautiful color and flavor. If that’s not an option, on-the-vine or Roma tomatoes will work well. In winter, canned tomatoes can be a last resort, but fresh is best!
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melting quality and Gruyère for richness. Mix it up as you like! If you need a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheeses that melt well. Nutritional yeast can add a nice cheesy flavor too!
Dried Herbs: Italian herbs give great flavor, but you can switch them for fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh basil or thyme can be chopped and sprinkled on top before baking for an extra flavor boost!
How Do I Prevent My Puff Pastry from Puffing Up Too Much?
Pricking the pastry with a fork creates small holes that let steam escape, helping it bake evenly without puffing too much. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference! Here’s how to do it:
- Use a fork to gently poke holes all over the inner area of the pastry, being careful not to poke through the edges.
- Make sure to do this evenly to ensure even puffing and cooking.
- If you want a less puffy base, you can also use weights or baking beans on the pastry while it bakes (this is called blind baking).
Following these tips will help create a beautifully balanced tart that stays flat and holds all that delicious filling!
Rustic Tomato Cheese Tart
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tart:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 9×12 inches), thawed
- 3-4 medium ripe tomatoes (heirloom or Roma), sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Rustic Tomato Cheese Tart takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need around 45 minutes. It’s a quick recipe that results in a beautiful, flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
Take the thawed puff pastry sheet and roll it out onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently score a 1-inch border around the edges without cutting through. This will create a lovely crust once baked.
3. Prick the Pastry:
Using a fork, prick the inner area of the pastry lightly. This step is important as it helps the pastry to not puff up too much during baking, ensuring your filling stays in place.
4. Flavor the Base:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs together. Brush this delicious mixture generously over the inner part of the pastry you just prepared.
5. Add Cheese and Tomatoes:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the brushed area inside the border. Then, layer the sliced tomatoes on top of the cheese in a single layer, allowing for some overlap if needed.
6. Season and Add Parmesan:
Season your tomatoes with salt and pepper. Afterward, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over everything for that extra flavor boost!
7. Prepare for Baking:
To give your tart a lovely golden finish, brush the border of the pastry with the beaten egg. This small step makes a big difference!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the tart into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, allow the tart to cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your Rustic Tomato Cheese Tart warm or at room temperature—it’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner!
FAQ for Rustic Tomato Cheese Tart
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Gruyère are great choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or cheddar. Just make sure they melt well for the best results!
Can I Make This Tart Vegan?
Yes, you can! Use vegan puff pastry and substitute the dairy cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. For the egg wash, simply brush the edges with a little non-dairy milk for a nice finish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for best results. This helps maintain the crispiness of the pastry!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and flavor. Just make sure to slice them thin to ensure they cook through during baking.
