The Puff Pastry Tart with Tomatoes & Burrata is a delightful and sophisticated dish that marries the buttery, flaky goodness of puff pastry with the fresh, vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and creamy burrata cheese. This tart is not only visually appealing but also bursting with contrasting textures and tastes, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch, an elegant appetizer, or even a show-stopping side dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party or simply want to indulge in a gourmet treat at home, this tart is sure to impress.
One of the great joys of this recipe is its simplicity. The use of store-bought puff pastry means you can put together this impressive dish in minimal time while still delivering maximum flavor. The combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes with the rich, creamy burrata, all brought together with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, makes this tart a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 8 oz), drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the tart from sticking and ensure even browning.
Step 2: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit your baking sheet, approximately 12×10 inches. Trim the edges if necessary to create a neat rectangle or leave them as is for a rustic look.
Step 3: Carefully transfer the puff pastry to the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a border about 1 inch from the edge of the pastry. Be careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a raised edge as the pastry bakes.
Step 4: Prick the center of the pastry all over with a fork. This will prevent it from puffing up too much in the middle while baking.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and olive oil. Brush this mixture over the center of the pastry, avoiding the edges. This adds a lovely garlic flavor that will infuse the tart as it bakes.
Step 6: As the tart bakes, prepare the burrata cheese by draining it and gently patting it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Step 7: Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer over the center of the pastry, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful presentation. Season the tomatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 8: Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. This will give the tart a lovely golden-brown finish.
Step 9: Slide the tart into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed, with softened tomatoes.
Step 10: After baking, remove the tart from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This short cooling period allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.
Step 11: Tear the burrata into pieces and arrange them over the warm tart. The heat from the pastry will gently soften the burrata, making it even creamier and more luscious.
Step 12: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the tart, followed by a generous drizzle of olive oil. Scatter fresh basil and thyme leaves over the top for a burst of freshness.
Step 13: For an extra touch of elegance, finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Cooking Note:
- If you want to make this tart ahead of time, you can bake the puff pastry base and prepare the tomatoes up to a few hours in advance. Assemble the tart with the burrata and fresh herbs just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
- The quality of the tomatoes and burrata is key to this dish. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes and the freshest burrata you can find.
Serving Suggestions:
The Puff Pastry Tart with Tomatoes & Burrata is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion and your personal preference. Here are some expanded serving suggestions to help you get the most out of this delightful dish:
-
As a Standalone Meal:
- Lunch or Light Dinner: This tart can easily stand alone as a light lunch or dinner, especially during the warmer months. Serve it with a side of mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette will complement the richness of the burrata and the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a well-balanced meal.
- Brunch: This tart makes an excellent addition to a brunch spread. Pair it with scrambled eggs or a simple frittata, fresh fruit, and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a mimosa. The tart’s vibrant colors and flavors will brighten up your brunch table.
-
As an Appetizer:
- Cocktail Parties: When serving as an appetizer for a cocktail party, cut the tart into small, bite-sized squares or rectangles. Arrange them on a large platter with fresh basil leaves for garnish. These tart bites are perfect for guests to enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or a sparkling rosé.
- Holiday Gatherings: This tart can also be a star at holiday gatherings. The red tomatoes and green basil create a festive color scheme, making it a visually appealing dish for Christmas or other celebrations. Pair it with other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a charcuterie board for a varied spread.
-
As a Side Dish:
- With Grilled Meats: This tart pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or lamb. The juicy, acidic tomatoes help cut through the richness of the meat, while the burrata adds a creamy contrast. Serve alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
- With Seafood: For a more sophisticated pairing, serve the tart alongside grilled or roasted seafood. The fresh, delicate flavors of fish such as salmon, sea bass, or shrimp are enhanced by the bright, tangy tomatoes and creamy burrata. A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will complement this pairing perfectly.
Tips:
- Tomato Selection: Heirloom tomatoes add a beautiful variety of colors and flavors to this tart. If heirlooms aren’t available, use the ripest, freshest tomatoes you can find.
- Burrata Substitution: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella is a good alternative, though it won’t have the same creamy center.
- Pastry Handling: Work quickly with the puff pastry, especially if your kitchen is warm, to prevent it from becoming too soft. If it starts to get too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up before proceeding.
- Flavor Enhancements: For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the tomatoes before baking.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (assuming 6 servings)
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I make the puff pastry from scratch?
A: Absolutely! While store-bought puff pastry is convenient and works wonderfully, homemade puff pastry adds an extra layer of flavor and flakiness. If you’re up for the challenge, it can be a rewarding experience.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the puff pastry will lose its crispness as it absorbs moisture from the tomatoes and burrata.
Q: Can I use different herbs?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs such as oregano, parsley, or chives. Each herb will bring its unique flavor to the dish.
Q: Is there a vegan alternative to burrata?
A: Yes, there are vegan cheeses available that mimic the texture and creaminess of burrata. Alternatively, you can use a combination of cashew cream and a soft vegan cheese.
Conclusion
The Puff Pastry Tart with Tomatoes & Burrata is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The buttery, flaky puff pastry serves as the perfect canvas for the vibrant tomatoes and luscious burrata, all enhanced by fresh herbs and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this tart is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. It’s a dish that can easily transition from a casual meal to a more refined gathering, making it versatile, delicious, and always impressive. Enjoy this tart warm with your favorite glass of wine, and savor the simple yet profound pleasure of well-crafted, seasonal cooking.