Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry are a delightful treat that brings together flaky pastry, creamy ricotta, and juicy tomatoes in a beautiful presentation. Perfect for appetizers, brunch, or snacking, these tartlets are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your guests with this delicious dish that’s ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These tartlets come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings.
• Flaky Delight: The puff pastry provides a light and flaky texture that complements the creamy filling.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as individual tartlets or one large tart for sharing—perfect for any event.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of ricotta, herbs, and fresh tomatoes creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or cheeses to personalize your tartlets.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking the tartlets evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth ricotta mixture effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Tartlets

• 1 8.5 oz sheet puff pastry (e.g. Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry)
• 1 egg

For the Ricotta Filling

• ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese (8 oz)
• ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (4 oz)
• 1 tsp kosher or sea salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tbsp fresh basil (minced, plus more whole leaves for garnish)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano

For the Topping

• ½ lb mini heirloom tomatoes (halved, or cherry, grape, or regular heirloom tomatoes sliced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Flaky sea salt to finish

How to Make Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures that your tartlets bake evenly while preventing sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Place the puff pastry on a cutting board.
2. Slice it into 9 equal pieces.
3. Use a knife to cut rectangles inside each piece, creating about a quarter-inch perimeter.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture and Egg Wash

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, pepper, minced basil, garlic powder, and oregano until well mixed.
2. In another small bowl, whisk the egg and set it aside as an egg wash for later use.

Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets

1. Arrange the puff pastry rectangles on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
2. Spoon approximately 1½ tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the center of each rectangle.
3. Top each piece with sliced tomatoes.
4. Brush the tomatoes lightly with olive oil.
5. Brush the edges of each puff pastry rectangle with egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake

Place your assembled tartlets in the oven:
1. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
2. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even browning.
3. Once done, remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.

Finish by topping with fresh basil leaves, flaky sea salt, and freshly ground pepper before serving! Enjoy your tasty Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry!

How to Serve Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Starter

• Serve warm as an appetizer at your next gathering. They make for a delightful first course that sets the tone for a delicious meal.

At Brunch

• Pair with a fresh salad or fruit platter for a light and satisfying brunch option. The tartlets complement many brunch favorites beautifully.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as balsamic reduction or pesto, to enhance the flavor of each tartlet. This adds an interactive element to your serving style.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each tartlet with additional basil or microgreens before serving. This adds freshness and a vibrant touch.

Accompanied by Cheese Platter

• Create a cheese board alongside the tartlets featuring assorted cheeses, crackers, and fruits. This provides a well-rounded snacking experience.

How to Perfect Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

To ensure your Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Ingredients – Keeping the puff pastry and ricotta cheese cold helps in achieving the flakiness of the pastry while baking.

• Don’t Overfill – Spoon just enough cheese mixture into the pastry to prevent overflowing during baking, which can lead to soggy bottoms.

• Brush Generously – Use egg wash on the edges of the pastry for a rich golden color. A well-brushed crust is visually appealing and adds flavor.

• Rotate During Baking – Halfway through baking, rotate your baking sheet for even cooking. This ensures all tartlets bake uniformly without any burnt spots.

• Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to add other toppings like olives or roasted peppers for added flavor variation based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

Tomato Tartlets pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider these options for a complete meal.

1. Mixed Green Salad – Fresh greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the tartlets.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add both color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing the savory notes of the tartlets.

3. Garlic Bread – Serve slices of garlic bread alongside for those who enjoy extra carbs! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover flavors from the tartlets.

4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and fiber, making it a healthy accompaniment that balances out the dish.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized goodies can be filled with herbs and cheese, providing another layer of flavor complexity on your plate.

6. Fruit Skewers – Brighten up your meal with colorful fruit skewers for dessert-like sweetness that cleanses the palate after savory bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your tartlets turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the egg wash – Not brushing the edges of the puff pastry with egg wash can result in a less golden and flaky crust. Always use an egg wash for that beautiful finish.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet – Placing the tartlets too close together can hinder even cooking. Ensure there is at least one inch of space between each tartlet for optimal puffing.
• Neglecting to preheat the oven – Failing to preheat your oven can affect how well the pastry rises. Make sure your oven reaches 425°F before baking for best results.
• Using cold ricotta – If your ricotta cheese is too cold, it won’t blend well with the other ingredients. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before mixing for a smoother texture.
• Not seasoning adequately – Under-seasoning can dull the flavors of your tartlets. Taste and adjust seasoning as you prepare the filling to enhance its overall taste.
• Rushing cooling time – Cutting into your tartlets right after baking can cause them to lose structure. Allow them to cool on a wire rack to maintain their shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tartlets in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

• Wrap each tartlet individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry.

Can I use different cheeses in my Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry?

Yes! You can experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for varied flavors.

How do I make my Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry more flavorful?

Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance flavor. You can also include finely chopped garlic or shallots.

Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the tartlets ahead of time, then bake them fresh when ready to serve.

What types of tomatoes work best for Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry?

Mini heirloom tomatoes or cherry tomatoes are great choices due to their sweetness. Regular heirloom tomatoes work well too if sliced thinly.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their flaky texture and rich flavor make them perfect as appetizers or snacks at gatherings. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the cheese!

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Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 9 tartlets 1x

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Enjoy quick and delicious Tomato Tartlets with Puff Pastry—perfect for any occasion! Try this simple recipe today!

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Ingredients

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• 1 sheet puff pastry (8.5 oz)
• ¾ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
• ½ lb mini heirloom tomatoes (halved or sliced)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher or sea salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into 9 equal rectangles, creating a border by scoring lightly.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, pepper, basil, garlic powder, and oregano until blended.
4. Place puff pastry on the baking sheet and add about 1½ tablespoons of the cheese mixture to each rectangle.
5. Top with sliced tomatoes and brush with olive oil. Brush the edges of the pastry with an egg wash.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown; rotate halfway through for even cooking.
7. Cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil and sea salt.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tartlet (40g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg