Summer Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe

The summer season brings with it an abundance of fresh produce, and one vegetable that truly shines during this time is the cherry tomato. Bursting with flavor and vibrant color, cherry tomatoes are the perfect ingredient for creating a delicious and visually stunning dish, such as a cherry tomato tart. This recipe, inspired by renowned chef Raymond Blanc OBE, combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with a buttery crust and a delectable herbed ricotta filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme, or parsley), chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheet onto a floured surface and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, toss the cherry tomato halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly over the puff pastry.
4. In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and the chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the cherry tomatoes, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the tomatoes are roasted and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Prepare:

This summer cherry tomato tart is a breeze to prepare, making it an excellent dish for both casual get-togethers and special occasions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. While the oven is heating up, roll out the puff pastry sheet onto a floured surface. This will prevent it from sticking.
3. Transfer the rolled-out pastry sheet onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will ensure that the pastry doesn’t stick to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.
4. In a bowl, halve the cherry tomatoes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The olive oil will help them roast beautifully in the oven, while the salt and pepper will enhance their natural flavors.
5. Spread the cherry tomatoes evenly over the puff pastry, ensuring that they cover the entire surface. This will result in a visually appealing tart.
6. In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the chopped fresh herbs of your choice. The choice of herbs is up to you, but basil, thyme, and parsley work exceptionally well.
7. Season the ricotta mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This will add depth of flavor to the filling.
8. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the cherry tomatoes, making sure to spread it out evenly. The creamy ricotta filling will add richness to the tart, complementing the sweetness of the tomatoes.
9. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry turns a beautiful golden brown and the tomatoes are roasted and slightly caramelized.
10. Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to handle.

Preparation Time:

The preparation time for this summer cherry tomato tart is approximately 15 minutes. This includes rolling out the puff pastry, preparing the cherry tomatoes, and mixing the ricotta filling. The baking time is an additional 20-25 minutes, bringing the total time to about 35-40 minutes.

Servings:

This delicious tart serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. It can be served as a main dish accompanied by a side salad or as part of a brunch spread alongside other savory and sweet treats.

Nutrition Facts:

While this summer cherry tomato tart is undoubtedly a scrumptious treat, it’s also worth considering its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of its approximate nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 8g

Tips:

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this summer cherry tomato tart recipe:

• Choose ripe, colorful cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and visual appeal.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the ricotta filling. Dill, oregano, and chives can add unique and delightful flavors.
• If you prefer a flakier crust, brush the puff pastry with an egg wash before baking. This will give it a beautiful golden color.
• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the tart before baking.
• Serve the tart warm or at room temperature to fully enjoy the flavors.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?

A: Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry can add an extra level of flakiness and flavor to the tart. Just make sure to roll it out to the appropriate size and thickness.

Q: Can I make this tart in advance?

A: While the tart is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the tart and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from chilled.

Q: Can I customize the toppings?

A: Yes, feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, or even sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top for a tangy twist.

Q: What other dishes can I serve alongside this tart?

A: This tart pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with a refreshing green salad, grilled vegetables, or even alongside some roasted chicken or fish.

Now that you have the recipe for this delectable summer cherry tomato tart, it’s time to get cooking and impress your friends and family with a stunning and delicious creation. Enjoy!