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Heirloom Tomato Tart

This rustic tomato tart features thinly sliced heirloom tomatoes layered on a flaky, buttery pastry crust. The dish is assembled with fresh herbs and cheese, then baked until the tomatoes are juicy and slightly smoky, and the crust is golden and crisp. The final result is a vibrant, juicy tart with a flaky exterior and tender, flavorful toppings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for pastry dough
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar optional, for flaky crust
  • about 4 cups heirloom tomatoes firm, ripe, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella or goat cheese crumbled or sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality, extra virgin
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil or thyme chopped
  • to taste sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Equipment

  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Pie dish or tart pan
  • Paper towels
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Begin by preparing your pastry dough: combine flour with a pinch of salt in a bowl, then cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add a splash of vinegar and cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  2. While the dough chills, slice the heirloom tomatoes thinly and lay them out on paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Pat them gently to remove surface water, which helps prevent sogginess.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a rustic circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or tart pan, and trim any uneven edges.
  4. Spread a thin layer of crumbled cheese over the base of the pastry, leaving a 1-2 inch border around the edges. Drizzle with a little olive oil over the cheese.
  5. Arrange the sliced tomatoes over the cheese, overlapping slightly and covering most of the surface for a colorful, layered look. Sprinkle chopped herbs over the top, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. Fold the edges of the pastry border over the tomatoes, pinching gently to create a rustic, crimped edge. Brush the crust with a little olive oil for extra golden color.
  7. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and flaky, and the tomatoes are bubbly and slightly caramelized around the edges. The aroma of baked herbs and roasted tomatoes will fill your kitchen.
  8. Remove the tart from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh herbs or a pinch of flaky sea salt for flavor enhancement.
  9. Slice the tart into wedges and serve at room temperature or slightly warm. Enjoy the crispy crust paired with juicy, smoky tomatoes and the rich, melty cheese for a delightful, rustic flavor.