Tomato Ricotta Tart

This Tomato Ricotta Tart is a delightful way to showcase the best flavors of fresh summer ingredients. Picture this: golden, flaky crust filled with creamy ricotta, layered with juicy slices of tomato, all baked to perfection. It’s a dish that impresses not just with its beautiful presentation, but also with its incredible taste. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, a casual dinner with friends, or a summer gathering, this tart serves as the perfect centerpiece. As you slice into it, the aroma of garlic and fresh basil fills the air, inviting everyone to come to the table. Trust me, the combination of flavors here is simply irresistible and will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s explore how to make this stunning Tomato Ricotta Tart together!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors that unfolds with each bite. The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy ricotta creates a balance that is both light and satisfying. As you bite into it, you’ll notice how the sweetness of the tomatoes complements the rich creaminess of ricotta, creating a symphony of tastes that celebrates fresh produce.

Utilizing a straightforward crust that comes together quickly allows the filling to shine. You won’t be distracted by overly complicated techniques. Instead, you’ll focus on the delightful union of ingredients that make this tart special.

Baking at the right temperature is key. It enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while ensuring the crust remains tender and flaky. Overall, this Tomato Ricotta Tart is a celebration of deliciousness that suits any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Ricotta Tart

There’s something truly special about this Tomato Ricotta Tart that just feels right for summer. Fresh ingredients burst with flavor, delivering a vibrant taste that tells a story of sun-soaked gardens and family gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, ideal for brunches, light dinners, or to add a bit of flair to your next potluck.

What makes it even more appealing is how effortlessly it comes together. You don’t need to be a master chef to create an impressive dish. The tart looks fancy and elegant, yet requires minimal effort to prepare. The delightful aroma will have everyone gathering around the table, eagerly awaiting a slice of this irresistible treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cup (156 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted and coarsely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup (59 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons ice water
• ¾ cup (185 g) part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup (12 g) chopped fresh basil, divided
• ½ cup (66 g) gruyere cheese, shredded, divided
• 1 pound (454 g) fresh tomatoes, seeded and cut into ¼-inch thick slices

Preparing the Crust

Combining the Dry Ingredients

Start by gathering your ingredients for the crust. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the flour, pine nuts, kosher salt, baking powder, and ground black pepper. Pulse them together until mixed well, ensuring an even texture.

Incorporating Wet Ingredients

In a small measuring cup, mix the olive oil and ice water. While the food processor is running, slowly pour this mixture into the bowl. Continue mixing until the dough becomes crumbly and starts to come together in a ball.

Forming the Dough

Now, take the mixture and transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan. Use your fingers to press the dough evenly across the bottom and up the sides. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just make sure it covers the pan well.

Pre-baking the Crust

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake the crust for 10 minutes. This step helps set the base of the tart. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Making the Filling

Mixing the Ricotta

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, kosher salt, ¼ cup of the chopped basil, and ¼ cup of the gruyere cheese. Mix everything together until it’s uniform in texture. The filling should be creamy and inviting, ready to be placed in the crust.

Filling the Crust

Next, pour the ricotta mixture into the pre-baked crust. Spread it evenly to ensure every slice will have a good ratio of flavors.

Arranging the Tomatoes

Layering the Tomatoes

Now for the star of the show! Start arranging the tomato slices in a circular pattern over your ricotta filling. Give each slice a little overlap. This not only looks nice but also ensures every bite is packed with tomato goodness.

Adding Cheese and Baking

Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of gruyere cheese on top of the tomatoes. It adds a delightful salty richness to the tart. Bake everything for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the filling is set. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!

Final Touches

Garnishing and Serving

Once baked, let the tart sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This little wait helps it firm up, making it easier to cut clean slices. Just before serving, sprinkle the leftover chopped basil over the top for a fresh finish. Warm slices are the best way to enjoy this tart!

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider pairing the Tomato Ricotta Tart with a fresh green salad lightly dressed in vinaigrette. It balances the richness of the tart beautifully. Alternatively, serve it alongside crusty bread or grilled meats for a lovely, complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Choose ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. A well-chosen tomato truly elevates this dish.
• Allowing the tart to cool slightly before slicing will help achieve clean cuts and prevent a mess.

Variations

If you want to switch things up a bit, you could try substituting the gruyere with mozzarella for a different cheese flavor. Or, for those wanting even more texture and taste, adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell pepper can be a delightful tweak!

FAQs

1. Can I make this Tomato Ricotta Tart ahead of time?

2. Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

3. What can I use instead of pine nuts?

4. If you have nut allergies, almonds or walnuts make great substitutes.

5. How do I store leftovers?

6. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

7. Can I freeze the tart?

8. Yes! Just wrap it well and freeze for up to a month. You can reheat straight from frozen at a low temperature.

9. What type of tomatoes work best?

10. Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal for flavor and texture.

This Tomato Ricotta Tart is not only an ode to summer but also a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. The delightful combination of creamy ricotta and juicy tomatoes makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or alongside simple sides, this tart brings joy and flavor to any table. Enjoy the vibrant essence of summer in every bite!

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