Description
These Tomato, Black Olive, and Ricotta Puff Tarts offer a delicious Mediterranean-inspired appetizer or brunch option featuring flaky puff pastry topped with creamy ricotta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy black olives. Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining, they bake to golden perfection with a fresh basil garnish that adds a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cheese Mixture
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Finishing
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and cut it into 4 equal rectangles. Place the rectangles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Score the Borders: Use a knife to lightly score a 1/2-inch border around each tart without cutting all the way through. This helps the edges puff up while baking.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Tarts: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly inside the scored border of each pastry rectangle. Top each with halved cherry tomatoes and sliced black olives.
- Apply Egg Wash and Olive Oil: Brush the pastry edges with the beaten egg to ensure a golden finish. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tomatoes and olives for extra flavor and moisture.
- Bake: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the tarts to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- These tarts are best served warm or at room temperature.
- For variety, add roasted red peppers or swap ricotta for goat cheese.
- Perfect as an appetizer, brunch dish, or a light lunch option.
