Description
These Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts are a delicious Mediterranean-inspired appetizer or brunch option featuring flaky puff pastry topped with creamy ricotta, tangy Parmesan, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny black olives. Perfectly golden and puffed, they make a delightful light lunch or impressive starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry and Cheese Mixture
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings and Finishes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet just slightly to smooth it out. Then cut the pastry into 4 equal rectangles and place them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Score Pastry Borders: Using a sharp knife, carefully score a 1/2-inch border around each rectangle. Be sure not to cut all the way through the dough, as this will help the edges puff up beautifully during baking.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly inside the scored border on each pastry rectangle, creating a creamy base layer. Top each tart with halved cherry tomatoes and sliced black olives for a savory burst of flavor.
- Add Finishing Touches: Brush the exposed edges of each pastry rectangle with the beaten egg wash to create a glossy, golden crust when baked. Drizzle olive oil lightly over the tomatoes and olives to add richness.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown, puffed, and crisp.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- These tarts are best served warm or at room temperature.
- You can add roasted red peppers for extra sweetness and color.
- Swap in goat cheese for ricotta to vary the flavor profile.
- Great as an appetizer, brunch item, or light lunch option.
