Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this mouthwatering Tomato Tart with Cheddar - a French-inspired masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a stunning dish that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. Imagine golden, flaky crust, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese creating a symphony of flavors that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe is your ticket to culinary stardom!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your tart cooks evenly and achieves a golden-brown crust.
- Take the pre-made pie crust out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to work with.
- While the crust is softening, wash the large tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Make sure to remove any excess seeds and juice to prevent the tart from becoming soggy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat the tomato slices evenly with the oil and seasoning.
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish, pressing it into the corners and up the sides. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. This will create a barrier to help absorb moisture from the tomatoes.
- Arrange the seasoned tomato slices in a circular pattern over the cheese layer, overlapping them slightly for an attractive presentation. You can also layer them in a spiral for a more decorative look.
- Once the tomatoes are arranged, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tomatoes, ensuring an even distribution.
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
- After baking, remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set slightly, making it easier to cut.
- Garnish the tart with fresh basil leaves just before serving for a burst of color and flavor. Slice into wedges and enjoy your delicious Tomato Tart with Cheddar!
Tips
- Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Roma or beefsteak tomatoes work wonderfully in this recipe.
- To prevent a soggy crust, pat your tomato slices dry with paper towels after slicing to remove excess moisture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light sprinkle of herbs like thyme or oregano along with the basil garnish.
- If you want a more rustic look, use a free-form galette style instead of a tart pan - it's equally delicious and looks beautifully homemade.
- Let the tart rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make slicing easier.
- For a gourmet touch, try using a mix of different cheeses like sharp cheddar and gruyère for a more complex flavor profile.
- Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
