Are you craving a dish that's both beautiful and bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further than this French Tomato Tart! This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a delightful appetizer, or even a simple yet impressive dinner. It showcases the vibrant taste of ripe tomatoes, perfectly complemented by herbs and a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this quick and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
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For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup ice water
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For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
- Whisk together flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Assemble and Bake the Tart:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
- Trim and crimp the edges of the dough. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up.
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, canned diced tomatoes (undrained), halved cherry tomatoes, basil, thyme, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the tomato mixture into the prepared tart crust. Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the tart cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best French Tomato Tart:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade pie crust.
- Don't overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the egg wash on the crust.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese over the tomato mixture before baking.
- Meat lover's twist: Add cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier tart.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This delicious French Tomato Tart is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable meal. It's a perfect dish for showcasing seasonal tomatoes and is easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!