Imagine capturing the essence of summer in a single, mouthwatering bite - that's exactly what this Last Summer Tomato Tart promises! This French-inspired culinary masterpiece transforms simple, ripe tomatoes into a stunning dish that will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched fields of Provence. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet experience, this tart is your ticket to a flavor-packed journey that celebrates the vibrant, fresh produce of the season.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even baking.
- Roll out the pie crust and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan or baking sheet, gently pressing the dough into the edges and trimming any excess.
- Wash and slice the ripe tomatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the tomato slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which prevents the tart from becoming soggy.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the bottom of the pie crust, creating a protective layer between the crust and tomatoes.
- Arrange the tomato slices in an overlapping circular pattern, covering the entire surface of the crust. Ensure the slices are placed neatly and closely together.
- Drizzle olive oil over the tomato slices, then season generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the tomatoes are slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the tart cool for 10 minutes to allow the cheese to set.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the tart just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
- Slice into 6 equal portions and serve warm as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish.
Tips
- To ensure your Last Summer Tomato Tart turns out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind: • Choose the ripest, most colorful tomatoes you can find - they're the star of this dish • Pat tomato slices thoroughly dry to prevent a soggy crust • Use a sharp knife to create uniform tomato slices for an elegant presentation • Don't rush the cooling process - letting the tart rest helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier • For an extra flavor boost, consider using fresh mozzarella or adding a sprinkle of parmesan • Serve immediately after adding fresh basil to maintain its bright green color and aromatic flavor • This tart is best enjoyed the same day it's made, preferably while still slightly warm
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
