Experience the ultimate blend of Mediterranean flavors with our Savory Tomato Basil Tart Delight. This Italian-inspired creation is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate harmony of garden-fresh ingredients. Whether you’re planning a vegetarian lunch or a quick dinner, this tart is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Pastry Crust

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-4 tablespoons ice water

Filling

• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the butter remains solid, creating flakiness in the crust.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Prick the base with a fork and chill while preparing the filling. Chilling helps prevent the dough from shrinking during baking.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and egg until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled crust. The combination of cheeses adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the tangy tomatoes.
4. Layer the Tomatoes: Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the ricotta mixture. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps the tomatoes to caramelize beautifully during baking.
5. Bake the Tart: Place the tart on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Let cool slightly before serving. The aroma of baked tomatoes and basil will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Tips & Tricks

• For a flaky pastry crust, ensure your butter is very cold and handle the dough as little as possible after adding water. Overworking the dough can make it tough.
• Make-ahead option: The crust can be prepared and chilled up to two days in advance. This is perfect for busy schedules or entertaining guests. Consider baking multiple crusts at once to save time.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a warm oven for the best texture. Microwaving can make the crust soggy.
• Avoid using overly ripe tomatoes, as they can make the tart soggy. Firm tomatoes hold up better and release less juice during baking.
• If the edges of the tart start to darken too quickly, use a pie shield or strips of foil to cover the edges partway through baking.
• For a decorative touch, lay extra basil leaves over the top before serving.

Variations

• For a vegan version, replace ricotta with a plant-based cheese spread and skip the egg. You can use a flaxseed egg as a binder for the filling.
• Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to accommodate dietary restrictions. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for elasticity.
• Add olives or artichoke hearts for additional rustic tart variations. Their briny flavor complements the sweet tomatoes and creamy filling.
• For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
• Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to add an extra layer of flavor to your Savory Tomato Basil Tart Delight.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or at room temperature with a fresh Cucumber Strawberry Salad for a refreshing contrast. The salad’s acidity and sweetness complement the rich flavors of the tart.
• Pair with a chilled glass of Coconut Limeade for a delightful summer meal. The limeade’s citrus notes enhance the savory aspects of the tart.
• Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also add an aromatic finish.
• Consider serving alongside a light vegetable soup for a more substantial meal.
• A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also balance the creamy richness of the tart.

FAQ

• Can I use store-bought pastry? Yes, a pre-made pastry crust can save time, but homemade offers a superior texture and flavor. It allows customization and control over ingredients.
• What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? Cottage cheese or mascarpone are good alternatives in this tomato basil tart recipe. Each brings a slightly different flavor and texture profile, so choose based on preference.
• How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy? Pre-baking the crust for 10 minutes and letting the filling cool slightly before adding tomatoes can help. This ensures a crisp base for your Savory Tomato Basil Tart Delight.
• Is it necessary to use a tart pan with a removable bottom? While it’s not strictly necessary, it makes serving much easier and provides a professional presentation.
• Can the tart be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the tart after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Print

Savory Tomato Basil Tart Delight

Recipe by Laila

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Lunch Cuisine: Italian Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

35 min

🔥

Calories

—

Experience the ultimate blend of Mediterranean flavors with our Savory Tomato Basil Tart Delight. This Italian-inspired creation is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate harmony of garden-fresh ingredients. Whether you're planning a vegetarian lunch or a quick dinner, this tart is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-4 tablespoons ice water
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1.

Prepare the Pastry Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2.

Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Prick the base with a fork and chill while preparing the filling.

3.

Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and egg until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

4.

Layer the Tomatoes: Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the ricotta mixture. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes.

5.

Bake the Tart: Place the tart on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Let cool slightly before serving.