Description

Tomato Mozzarella Puff Pastry Tarts are a delightful summer treat, featuring a flaky puff pastry base topped with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to dinner parties.

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. Cut it into four equal squares. Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheet.
Using a sharp knife, lightly score a border around each square, about ½ inch from the edges. Be careful not to cut all the way through the pastry.
Use a fork to poke holes within the inner square of the pastry. This helps prevent the center from puffing too much during baking.
Brush the outer edges of each pastry square with the beaten egg. Drizzle the inner part of the pastry lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Start by placing a slice of tomato in the center of each pastry square, followed by a slice of fresh mozzarella on top. Repeat with additional layers if desired, alternating the ingredients for added visual appeal.
Top each tart with torn basil leaves, and drizzle with a bit more olive oil for added flavor.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving to add a sweet and tangy finish.
Serve warm as an appetizer or light lunch.

Notes

Add More Veggies: Add thinly sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the top of the tarts for more substantial veggie additions.

Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for goat cheese, ricotta, or feta for a unique twist on flavor.

Herb Variations: Try using oregano, thyme, or rosemary in place of basil for a different herbaceous flavor profile.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tart
Calories: 280
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg