Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart

Name: Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup cold water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup mixed heirloom tomatoes, sliced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Inspiration

I absolutely adore making this Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart; it’s a delicious and comforting dish that brings a taste of summer to my kitchen. The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and a flaky crust creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Every time I serve this tart, it’s met with smiles and compliments. Whether enjoyed for brunch or as a light dinner, it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for any lazy Sunday!

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:05:34.846Z

When I first attempted this tart, I was experimenting with ways to make the most out of my summer tomato bounty. The result was nothing short of magic! The secret lies in using a mix of sweet and tangy heirloom tomatoes to create a dynamic flavor profile that tantalizes the palate. I also discovered that letting the tart cool slightly before serving intensifies the flavors, which is a gentle reminder to be patient.

This tart is wonderfully versatile; you can add in fresh herbs or swap out the ricotta for goat cheese depending on your mood. Every time I create it, I’m reminded of the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. It’s a true celebration of seasonal produce!

        Why You'll Love This Tart
        Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Creamy ricotta that complements the juicy tomatoes
A visually stunning dish that impresses any guest

      

Mastering the Tart Crust

Creating the perfect tart crust is essential for the integrity of this dish. When combining the flour and chilled butter, aim for a crumb-like texture; this will ensure a flaky crust. I recommend using a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour efficiently, avoiding warm hands that might melt the butter. If the crust seems too crumbly and won't come together, adding an extra tablespoon of cold water can help. Additionally, make sure to chill the crust thoroughly before baking to prevent shrinkage during the cooking process.

After fitting the rolled-out dough into the tart pan, pricking the bottom is a crucial step. This not only allows steam to escape while baking but also helps prevent the crust from puffing up. You should see the edges of the crust turning golden brown during baking, which indicates a perfectly cooked tart shell. If you notice any bubbling, use a fork to gently press down any rising areas.

Elevating the Filling

The ricotta cheese is the star of the filling, providing a creamy texture and subtle flavor. For an even richer filling, consider using whole milk ricotta, which can enhance the creamy profile. If you’re looking for a lighter version, part-skim ricotta can also work but may yield a less rich texture. Be sure to whisk the filling until smooth and glossy to avoid any graininess in your tart. This also helps to incorporate air, which can slightly lighten the filling during baking.

When it comes to the heirloom tomatoes, using a variety of colors and sizes makes for a visually stunning tart. Heirlooms have a robust flavor that stands up well against the creaminess of the ricotta. Slice them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly; thinner slices will caramelize nicely while thicker ones will retain more juiciness. If you find the tomatoes too watery, let them drain on paper towels for a few minutes before layering them over the ricotta to prevent a soggy tart.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your tart shine:

For the Tart Crust

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup mixed heirloom tomatoes, sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you will be able to create a tart that's bursting with flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your tomato ricotta tart:

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and chill for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until well combined. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled tart crust.

Add the Tomatoes

Arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes on top of the ricotta filling, overlapping them slightly for an attractive presentation.

Bake the Tart

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the tart for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Enjoy your delicious tart with friends and family for a fantastic meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some chopped garlic or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture. If you have extra vegetables, they can be incorporated into the filling as well.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the tart crust a day in advance and store it, wrapped in plastic, in the refrigerator. This actually enhances the crust's flavor as the butter melds with the flour over time. Additionally, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just be sure to combine everything right before baking to keep the texture fresh and vibrant.

Once baked, this tart can be served warm or cooled to room temperature. It’s also perfect for serving later, as the flavors often deepen and improve. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore its original texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this tart is delightful on its own, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy filling. A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the tart beautifully. This makes it an excellent choice for brunch or a light dinner with friends.

If you want to switch up the flavors, try adding different herbs like thyme or oregano to the ricotta filling for a fragrant twist. You can also substitute other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for the tomatoes in the filling, which can complement the creaminess of the ricotta while adding their unique flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pastry for the crust?

Absolutely! Store-bought pastry can save time and still yield a delicious tart.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or add vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is it possible to freeze the tart?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked tart for up to a month. Just bake it from frozen, adding a bit of extra time.