Introduction to Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of fresh tomatoes and melted cheese dances in the air! Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful way to celebrate summer’s bounty. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a busy day or a dish to impress your loved ones, this tart is your answer. With its flaky crust and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Why You’ll Love This Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
This Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy cheeses creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase summer produce, bringing a taste of the South right to your table!
Ingredients for Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your flaky crust. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors of the crust and filling. Don’t skip it!
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it’s essential for that tender, flaky texture. If you prefer, you can use margarine or a vegan butter alternative.
- Ice water: This helps bring the dough together without warming the butter. Keep it icy for the best results!
- Fresh tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish. You can use medium-sized ones or halved cherry tomatoes for a sweeter bite.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This adds a gooey, melty texture. Feel free to swap it with provolone for a different flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: It brings a sharpness that complements the tomatoes beautifully. A mild cheddar works well too.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute if you’re looking for something bolder.
- Mayonnaise: It creates a creamy filling that binds everything together. Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the tart with a lovely aroma. You can use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a hint of spice. Adjust to your taste!
- Paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness. Smoked paprika can elevate the flavor even more.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish, they add a pop of color and a fragrant finish. You can also use other herbs like thyme or oregano.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious tart that will impress everyone.
Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour and salt in a bowl. I like to use a pastry cutter to cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s like creating little clouds of buttery goodness!
Next, add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Don’t rush this part; the colder the water, the flakier your crust will be. Once it’s ready, shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Blind Bake the Crust
After the dough has chilled, roll it out to fit your 9-inch tart or pie dish. Press it into the dish, trim the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. This helps prevent bubbling during baking.
Now, it’s time to blind bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the crust for about 12 minutes. Let it cool slightly before adding the filling. This step ensures a crisp base for your tart.
Prepare the Tomatoes
While the crust cools, slice your fresh tomatoes and place them on paper towels. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, preventing a soggy tart.
After 10 minutes, pat the tomatoes dry with another paper towel. Trust me, this little trick makes a big difference in the final texture!
Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the mayonnaise, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything until well combined. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise binds the cheeses beautifully!
Assemble the Tart
Now comes the fun part—layering! Start by placing half of the prepared tomatoes over the cooled crust. Then, spread the cheese mixture evenly on top. Finally, arrange the remaining tomatoes cut side up. It’s like creating a colorful masterpiece!
Bake the Tart
Pop the assembled tart into the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Once baked, let the tart cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Then, slice and serve. Enjoy every bite of this Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil!
Tips for Success
- Use cold ingredients for the crust to ensure it stays flaky.
- Don’t skip the salting step for the tomatoes; it’s key to avoiding sogginess.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Let the tart cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.
- Serve warm for the best taste, but it’s also delicious at room temperature!
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch tart or pie dish: A standard dish works well, but a quiche dish adds a nice touch.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size you have; just make sure they’re sturdy.
- Pastry cutter: If you don’t have one, a fork or your fingers will do the trick!
- Rolling pin: A wine bottle can serve as a great alternative in a pinch.
- Oven mitts: Safety first! Protect your hands when handling hot dishes.
Variations of Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
- Herbed Crust: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the crust for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture for a spicy version.
- Vegetable Medley: Mix in sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese and use a plant-based mayonnaise for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions for Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.
- A chilled glass of white wine complements the tart beautifully.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Slice into wedges and serve as an appetizer at your next gathering!
FAQs about Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil
Can I use store-bought crust for the Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought pie crust is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.
What type of tomatoes work best for this tart?
Ripe, juicy tomatoes are ideal for this recipe. I love using heirloom varieties for their flavor, but cherry or grape tomatoes work beautifully too!
Can I make the Southern Tomato Tart ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tart a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven before serving for the best taste.
What can I serve with the Southern Tomato Tart?
This tart pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables. A chilled glass of white wine also complements the flavors perfectly!
Can I freeze the Southern Tomato Tart?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the tart before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. Bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Making this Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. The joy of slicing into that golden crust, revealing layers of vibrant tomatoes and gooey cheese, is simply unmatched. Each bite is a celebration of summer’s bounty, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this tart is sure to bring a smile to your face. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the flavors transport you to the heart of the South!
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Southern Tomato Tart with Cheese & Basil: A Must-Try Recipe!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious Southern Tomato Tart featuring a flaky crust, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses, topped with fragrant basil.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3–4 tbsp ice water
- 4–5 medium ripe tomatoes (or 2 cups cherry/grape tomatoes, halved)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter with a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together.
- Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out dough to fit a 9-inch tart or pie dish. Press into dish, trim edges, and prick bottom with a fork.
- Blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Slice tomatoes and place them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Pat dry with another paper towel.
- In a bowl, mix mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic, black pepper, and paprika until combined.
- Layer half the tomatoes over the cooled crust.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly on top.
- Arrange the remaining tomatoes on top, cut side up.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing.
Notes
- For a quicker option, use a store-bought pie crust.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese.
- Ensure tomatoes are ripe for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
