Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts

Introduction

These Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts are a true delight! I made them recently for a summer dinner with my family, and they were an absolute hit. The flaky puff pastry serves as a perfect base, with creamy ricotta, tangy black olives, and the freshness of ripe tomatoes. The mix of flavors and textures is truly satisfying, and the vibrant colors make the tarts look so inviting on the table. I served them with a simple side salad, and everyone—my husband, kids, and even our picky eater—couldn’t get enough of them. The best part? These tarts are quick and easy to make, which means they’re perfect for a weekday meal or a laid-back weekend gathering. If you’re looking for a flavorful yet simple dish to enjoy during the warmer months, these tarts will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts

These Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts are the ultimate summer dish. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:

1. Light yet satisfying – The combination of light puff pastry, creamy ricotta, and fresh ingredients makes these tarts the perfect balance between indulgent and healthy.
2. Versatile – Serve them as a main dish for a quick and satisfying meal, or as a delightful appetizer at your next gathering. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad.
3. Quick and easy – With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these tarts are perfect for busy nights when you want something both delicious and effortless.
4. Flavor-packed – The blend of ricotta, tomatoes, black olives, and oregano adds vibrant and earthy flavors to every bite. The puff pastry adds a crisp, buttery crunch that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

To make these Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts, you’ll need:

• 320g puff pastry sheet
• 150g ricotta cheese, well-drained
• 50g pitted black olives, sliced
• 15g pack fresh oregano, leaves chopped
• 4 tbsp black olive tapenade or red pesto
• 300g red tomatoes, sliced

Instructions

Making these Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts is quick and simple. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unroll the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base
Using a knife, score a 1 cm border around the edge of each pastry rectangle, being careful not to cut all the way through the dough.
Spread 1 tablespoon of black olive tapenade (or red pesto) onto the center of each rectangle, staying within the border.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Spoon the drained ricotta evenly across each tart, spreading it gently with the back of a spoon.
Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the ricotta, slightly overlapping if necessary to fit them all.
Sprinkle the sliced black olives and chopped fresh oregano over the tarts.

Step 4: Bake the Tarts
Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy, and the tomatoes are slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Serve
Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm with a fresh salad or enjoy them as a standalone snack.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6 tarts
Calories per serving: 250 kcal

Preparation Time

Total time: 45 minutes
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes

How to Serve

Here are some great ways to serve your Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts:

• Serve them as a main dish with a refreshing salad on the side, such as a green salad or a Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives.
• Pair them with a glass of chilled white wine for a light and satisfying meal.
• Serve them as an appetizer at your next dinner party or picnic.
• Enjoy them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
• These tarts can also be served with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt sauce for a creamy contrast.

Additional Tips

1. Use high-quality ricotta – For the creamiest filling, make sure you’re using good-quality ricotta cheese. You can also try making your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
2. Customize the toppings – While tomatoes, olives, and ricotta are a delicious combo, feel free to get creative! Add some sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even some crumbled feta cheese for variety.
3. Chill the puff pastry – If you’re working with frozen puff pastry, be sure to let it thaw completely and keep it cool until you’re ready to use it. This helps prevent the pastry from becoming too soft and difficult to work with.
4. Make ahead – You can prepare the tarts in advance up to the baking step, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake them fresh for about 15–20 minutes for a golden crisp finish.
5. Try a gluten-free option – If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free puff pastry at your local store. It’s a great way to make this recipe accessible to everyone.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before using it.

2. Can I make these tarts vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! You can also add extra veggies like spinach or roasted peppers for added flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
While ricotta adds a creamy texture, you can substitute it with other cheeses like goat cheese, cream cheese, or even mascarpone for a different flavor.

4. Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just prepare the tarts and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

5. How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well before spreading it on the pastry. This helps reduce moisture, preventing the pastry from becoming soggy.

6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover tarts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to get the pastry crispy again.

7. Can I make these tarts smaller for appetizers?
Absolutely! You can cut the puff pastry into smaller squares to make mini tarts, perfect for appetizers at parties or gatherings.

8. What can I serve these tarts with?
These tarts pair wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even a light pasta dish.

9. Can I use green olives instead of black olives?
Yes, green olives would work as well! Just keep in mind that green olives tend to have a stronger, tangier flavor than black olives.

10. Can I add more seasoning to the ricotta filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add some garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.

These Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. They are simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

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