Tomato Ricotta Tart Recipe

This savory tomato and ricotta tart recipe is a perfect dish that can be made from scratch at home. The tart uses a phyllo-parmesan crust giving it a light, crisp base, which is then topped with a creamy ricotta mixture and fresh tomatoes. This scrumptious tart can be served as an appetizer, light lunch, or a classy addition to any dinner party.

Photos of Tomato Ricotta Tart Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common, phyllo dough may be a bit unfamiliar. Also spelled 'filo', it's a paper-thin pastry dough used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. You can generally find it in the frozen foods section of your grocery store, near other pastry doughs. Ricotta cheese, used in the tart's filling, is a creamy Italian cheese that can be found in the dairy or cheese aisle.

Ingredients for Tomato and Ricotta Tart

Ricotta cheese: A creamy Italian cheese used in the tart's filling. It adds a rich and creamy texture.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a salty and nutty flavor.

Thyme: An aromatic herb used for its minty, light-lemon aroma.

Kosher salt: Used for seasoning, it has larger grains than regular table salt.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to the tart.

Garlic: Provides a distinct, robust flavor.

Egg yolk: Binds the ingredients together.

Phyllo dough: A thin, flaky pastry dough used for the tart's crust.

Unsalted butter: Used to brush the phyllo dough for a golden, flaky crust.

Tomatoes: Adds a fresh and slightly sweet flavor.

One reader, Fern Sinclair says:

This tomato and ricotta tart recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy ricotta on a crispy phyllo crust is simply divine. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is a showstopper at any gathering. I highly recommend trying it out!

Fern Sinclair

Essential Techniques for Making a Tomato Ricotta Tart

How to prepare cheese layer: Mix the ricotta, grated parmesan, thyme, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, garlic, and egg yolk together in a bowl. Set aside.

How to prepare phyllo-parmesan crust: Carefully unroll the thawed dough and cover with a damp cloth. Brush the bottom of a 13x18-inch rimmed baking sheet with some of the melted butter. Lay 1 sheet of the phyllo dough on top. Brush the phyllo with some of the butter and place another sheet of phyllo on top. Brush the second sheet with some butter and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the parmesan cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining sheets of phyllo dough and butter, sprinkling 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese on every other sheet. Do not brush the top of the last sheet with butter.

How to assemble: Arrange the tomato slices on top of the cheese mixture. Sprinkle the thyme leaves and salt on top of the tomatoes.

How to bake: Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes until the phyllo is crisp. The phyllo dough will shrink slightly during baking.

How to serve: Let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes, and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!

How To Make Tomato Ricotta Tart

This tasty tomato ricotta tart resembles a pizza made of crispy phyllo layered with savory cheeses, then topped with fresh and juicy tomatoes.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cheese Layer:

2cupsricotta cheese
¼cupparmesan cheese,finely grated
2tbspfresh thyme leaves
1tspkosher salt
¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed
2garlic cloves,grated on a microplane, or finely minced
1egg yolk

For Phyllo-Parmesan Crust:

12phyllo dough sheets,thawed according to package directions
6tbspunsalted butter,melted
5tbspparmesan cheese,finely grated, divided

For Assembling:

2lbstomatoes,ripe, cut into ⅓-inch thick slices
1tspfresh thyme leaves
⅓tspkosher salt

Instructions

Cheese Layer:

Mix the ricotta, grated parmesan, thyme, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, garlic, and egg yolk together in a bowl. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Phyllo-Parmesan Crust:

Carefully unroll the thawed dough and cover with a damp cloth.
Brush the bottom of a 13×18-inch rimmed baking sheet with some of the melted butter.
Lay 1 sheet of the phyllo dough on top. Brush the phyllo with some of the butter and place another sheet of phyllo on top. Brush the second sheet with some butter and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the parmesan cheese over the top.
Repeat with the remaining sheets of phyllo dough and butter, sprinkling 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese on every other sheet. Do not brush the top of the last sheet with butter.
Spread the cheese mixture in an even layer on top of the phyllo crust.

To Assemble:

Arrange the tomato slices on top of the cheese mixture. Sprinkle the thyme leaves and salt on top of the tomatoes.
Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes until the phyllo is crisp. The phyllo dough will shrink slightly during baking.
Let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes, and cut into squares.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Leftovers can be refrigerated, but the phyllo crust will lose its crispness.
This is best served immediately or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 112.73kcal
Fat: 7.26g
Saturated Fat: 4.32g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.35g
Carbohydrates: 7.38g
Fiber: 0.67g
Sugar: 1.11g
Protein: 4.73g
Cholesterol: 26.63mg
Sodium: 176.86mg
Calcium: 91.89mg
Potassium: 125.57mg
Iron: 0.58mg
Vitamin A: 74.97µg
Vitamin C: 5.63mg

Helpful Technique for Making Tomato and Ricotta Tarts

When working with phyllo dough, it's important to keep it covered with a damp cloth when not in use. This prevents it from drying out and becoming brittle. Also, when brushing the dough with butter, be gentle to avoid tearing the sheets. Remember, layering the sheets with butter and parmesan creates a flaky, flavorful crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Tart Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the cheese mixture and slice the tomatoes the night before to save time on the day of baking.

Use store-bought phyllo dough: Opt for pre-made phyllo dough to skip the time-consuming process of making it from scratch.

Multi-task: While the tart is baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare other dishes to maximize efficiency.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Preheat efficiently: Preheat the oven while assembling the tart to save time and ensure it's ready for baking when needed.

Substitute Ingredients For Tomato Ricotta Tart Recipe

ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for ricotta in this recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan, which can work well in the tart recipe.
thyme leaves - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can provide a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients.
phyllo dough sheets - Substitute with puff pastry sheets: Puff pastry can provide a flaky and crispy texture similar to phyllo dough, adding a delicious layer to the tart.
tomatoes - Substitute with sliced zucchini: Sliced zucchini can offer a similar vibrant color and a slightly sweet flavor, adding a refreshing twist to the tart.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a mild heat and smoky flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the tart.

Presenting Your Tomato and Ricotta Tart

Elevate the cheese layer: Create a smooth and creamy ricotta mixture with a hint of parmesan and a touch of thyme for a burst of flavor.
Perfect the phyllo-parmesan crust: Layer the delicate phyllo dough with a generous amount of butter and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a crispy and savory base.
Artfully arrange the tomatoes: Select the finest, ripe tomatoes and delicately place them on top of the cheese layer, ensuring a visually stunning and vibrant presentation.
Garnish with fresh thyme: Sprinkle freshly picked thyme leaves over the tomatoes to add a pop of color and a fragrant aroma to the dish.
Serve with precision: Cut the tart into perfectly portioned squares, ensuring each serving is a work of art on its own.

Essential Tools for Making a Tomato Ricotta Tart

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly. It is used for preparing the cheese layer and for various other mixing tasks.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to bake the tart in the oven. It provides a flat, even surface for the tart to cook on.
Brush: A brush is used to apply melted butter onto the layers of phyllo dough, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to blend the cheese layer ingredients together, creating a smooth and well-combined mixture.
Knife: A knife is used to slice the tomatoes for the tart.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the tomato and ricotta tart to perfection.
Grater: A grater is used to grate the parmesan cheese for the cheese layer and the phyllo-parmesan crust.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush can be used to brush the phyllo dough with melted butter, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Spatula: A spatula can be used to spread the cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo-parmesan crust.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure and portion the ingredients for the recipe.

Storing and Freezing Your Tomato Ricotta Tart

Let the tomato and ricotta tart cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the tart tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the tart:
- Wrap the cooled tart tightly with plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped tart with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped tart in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen tart:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the tart from the freezer and unwrap it.
- Place the tart on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake the tart for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through and the phyllo crust is crisp again.
- If the tart was stored in the refrigerator, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Note that the texture of the phyllo crust may soften slightly after freezing and reheating, but it will still taste delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Tomato and Ricotta Tart

To reheat leftover tomato and ricotta tart, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the phyllo crust from burning while the filling heats through. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tart is warmed to your liking. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to crisp up the crust.
Another option is to reheat individual slices of the tart in a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the tart on a small baking sheet or directly on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the ricotta filling is warm and the phyllo is crispy.
For a quicker method, you can use a microwave to reheat the tart. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds. Keep in mind that the crust may lose some of its crispness when reheated in the microwave.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the tart while maintaining a crispy crust. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of the tart in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the tart is warmed through and the crust is crispy.
Lastly, you can enjoy the leftover tomato and ricotta tart cold, straight from the refrigerator. The flavors of the ricotta cheese, parmesan, and tomatoes will have melded together, creating a delicious and refreshing treat.

Interesting Fact About Tomato and Ricotta Tarts

The tomato and ricotta tart is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for picnics or potlucks. The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese creates a delicious and satisfying flavor. Additionally, the phyllo-parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch to each bite. This dish is a great way to showcase the flavors of fresh, ripe tomatoes and is a perfect addition to any summer meal.

Is Making a Tomato Ricotta Tart Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this tomato and ricotta tart recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your location. Tomatoes and ricotta cheese are generally affordable, while phyllo dough and parmesan cheese can be pricier. The fresh thyme and garlic are relatively inexpensive. Considering the overall cost, this recipe can be moderately cost-effective for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10 for its delicious flavors and versatility.

Is This Tart Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The tomato and ricotta tart recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The crust is made with phyllo dough, which is high in fat and calories due to the butter used between each layer.
The cheese layer contains a significant amount of ricotta and parmesan cheese, both of which are high in saturated fat and sodium.
The recipe calls for a considerable amount of butter, which adds to the overall fat content.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as fresh tomatoes and herbs, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in the phyllo crust or opt for a healthier alternative, such as olive oil spray.
Use low-fat ricotta cheese and reduce the amount of parmesan cheese to lower the overall fat and sodium content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the tart, such as sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density.
Serve the tart with a side salad to add more fiber and balance out the meal.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the tomato and ricotta tart while also making it a more nutritious option. Remember, moderation is key, and indulging in a treat like this occasionally can be part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Tomato Ricotta Tart Recipe

The combination of creamy ricotta, tangy Parmesan, and fresh thyme creates a delightful cheese layer. The phyllo-parmesan crust adds a crispy, flaky texture that complements the rich cheese. The vibrant tomatoes, seasoned with thyme and salt, bring a burst of freshness to each bite. Overall, this tomato and ricotta tart recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Tomato Ricotta Tart Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for complementing the rich flavors of the tomato and ricotta tart.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, adding a bright and refreshing element to the meal.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crisp Brussels sprouts roasted to caramelized perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy tart.

Similar Recipes to Tomato and Ricotta Tart

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto rice makes for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs infuse the chicken with bright and fresh flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Mixed Berry Crisp: This mixed berry crisp is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh berries. The crispy oat topping pairs perfectly with the juicy berries, creating a delicious and comforting treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Tart Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with crispy baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This classic Italian dish is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture of the mousse paired with the lightness of the whipped cream creates a perfect balance of flavors and a luxurious dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy goodness of a classic strawberry cheesecake. The buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect base for the luscious cream cheese filling, while the sweet and juicy strawberries on top add a burst of freshness to every bite. Each forkful is a delightful combination of smooth, rich, and fruity flavors.

Why trust this Tomato Ricotta Tart Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The creamy ricotta cheese layer is enriched with parmesan cheese and aromatic thyme leaves, creating a luscious base. The phyllo-parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch, perfectly complementing the rich cheese layer. The vibrant tomatoes are seasoned with fragrant thyme leaves and a touch of kosher salt, enhancing their natural sweetness. With a harmonious blend of ingredients and a visually stunning presentation, this recipe promises to impress and delight with every bite.

Want to share your experience making this Tomato Ricotta Tart or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta for the cheese layer?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with other soft cheeses such as goat cheese or cottage cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare the tart ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the tart ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or meal prep.

Can I use a different type of herb instead of thyme?

Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different herbs such as basil, oregano, or rosemary to customize the flavor to your preference.

Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of phyllo dough?

While phyllo dough provides a delicate and crispy texture, you can use pre-made pie crust as a substitute. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be different.

Can I add other vegetables on top of the tart?

Certainly, you can personalize the tart by adding other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or caramelized onions to create a unique and flavorful dish.