Cherry Tomato and Cheese Tart Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that is both visually stunning and packed with flavor, a Cherry Tomato and Cheese Tart is the perfect option. This savory tart brings together the tangy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the creamy richness of cheese, all enveloped in a light, flaky crust. It's ideal for serving at gatherings, a casual meal with friends, or as a part of a more elaborate spread. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that the tart is easy to prepare, yet the combination of flavors creates a dish that's truly memorable.

Ingredients

To create this delightful tart, you'll need a few basic ingredients:

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water (as needed)
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 200g (7oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup grated cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
• ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese for creaminess
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter into the mixture and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolk and gradually mix in the cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. You want the dough to be soft but not sticky.
3. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to handle and result in a flakier crust.
4. Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick and large enough to fit your tart pan. Carefully transfer the dough into the pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim off any excess dough from the sides.

Step 2: Pre-Bake the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Tart Crust: Prick the base of the tart crust with a fork to prevent air bubbles. Line the crust with parchment paper, and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake the crust for 10-15 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown.
3. Remove the Weights: Take the tart out of the oven, remove the pie weights and parchment paper, and return it to the oven for another 5 minutes to allow the bottom to cook fully. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix the ricotta or cream cheese with a little salt and pepper to taste. Spread this mixture evenly over the base of the tart.
2. Arrange the Tomatoes: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and arrange them neatly on top of the cheese layer. You can place them in concentric circles or a more rustic, scattered pattern.
3. Add the Grated Cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella, cheddar, or your cheese of choice over the top of the tomatoes.

Step 4: Bake the Tart

1. Bake Until Golden: Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the tart for extra flavor. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tomatoes are roasted and slightly caramelized.
2. Final Touch: Once the tart is finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

Serving Suggestions

The Cherry Tomato and Cheese Tart is best enjoyed slightly warm, but it can also be served at room temperature. It's great as a main course when paired with a fresh salad, or you can slice it into smaller portions and serve it as an appetizer.

If you're hosting guests, consider serving the tart alongside other simple dishes such as roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad to complement the flavors of the tart. Its bright, colorful presentation is sure to make it a star on any table.

Variations

One of the joys of making a tart is its versatility. You can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:

• Herb-Infused Tart: Add finely chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the cheese filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and ricotta are mild and creamy, you can substitute them with other cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or even blue cheese for a more robust taste.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to create a more complex tart with varied textures and flavors.

Conclusion

A Cherry Tomato and Cheese Tart is a delightful combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. The combination of tangy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a crisp crust is irresistible, making it a dish that is sure to impress family, friends, or guests at any gathering.

This tart is not only a wonderful option for a casual meal but also an eye-catching dish perfect for special occasions. With its versatility, you can experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and vegetables to suit your preferences. Once you’ve made this tart, it’s likely to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!