As summer unfolds and the sun graces us with longer days, I’m reminded of the fresh bounty that this season brings. Walking through farmer’s markets, the vibrant hues of ripe tomatoes practically leap off the tables, whispering promises of juicy delight. This Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust captures that essence beautifully—bringing together the buttery crunch of an easy crust and the rich, creamy custard that cradles those luscious summer tomatoes. Perfect for a leisurely brunch or a light dinner, this dish not only dazzles the eyes but tantalizes the taste buds with every bite. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge in homemade goodness without the fuss. Join me in creating a dish that celebrates summer and sparks joy at every meal!
Why You’ll Love This Simple Tomato Tart!
Simplicity at your fingertips: This Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust requires minimal effort with maximum flavor impact, perfect for busy cooks or those new to baking.
Flavor explosion: Each slice bursts with the taste of fresh summer tomatoes, creamy custard, and aromatic thyme, creating a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.
Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a light lunch, a brunch centerpiece, or a casual dinner, this tart fits seamlessly into any menu.
Crowd-pleaser: Its gorgeous presentation will impress guests, while the comforting flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
Make-ahead ease: Prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat for perfect convenience, making it ideal for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Simple Tomato Tart Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-Purpose Flour – Structure for the crust; you can use whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
- Salt – Enhances flavor in both crust and filling; consider sea salt for a fresher taste.
- Sugar – Balances the flavors in the crust; can be reduced or swapped with a sugar alternative.
- Baking Powder – Provides lift to the crust; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; coconut oil can substitute for a dairy-free option.
- Cold Water – Binds dough together without heating the butter; use ice-cold water for best texture.
For the Filling
- Eggs – Provides structure and richness; consider flax eggs for a vegan substitute.
- Heavy Cream – Delivers creaminess; half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative work well too.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tang to the custard; can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Fontina Cheese – Offers creamy flavor and great melting quality; Gruyere or mild cheddar are good alternatives.
- Fresh Tomatoes – The star ingredient for sweetness and moisture; opt for heirloom or ripe varieties.
- Fresh Thyme – For garnish and aromatic flavor; basil or oregano can be used for different profiles.
With these delicious ingredients in hand, you’re ready to embark on your journey to creating the perfect Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust that captures the essence of summer on your plate!
How to Make Simple Tomato Tart
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Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Pour in melted butter and cold water, then mix until a dough forms. Press this dough into a 10-inch tart pan, ensuring it reaches the edges, and chill for 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the tart.
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Make the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Stir in the grated Fontina cheese until well combined, creating a luscious custard filling.
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Assemble the Tart: Pour the custard mixture into the chilled crust, then arrange tomato slices over the top. Sprinkle with any reserved cheese to enhance the flavor and presentation.
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Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The tart is ready when the custard is set and the crust turns golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme for an aromatic touch.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Simple Tomato Tart
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Room Temperature: Allow the Simple Tomato Tart to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or covering it with foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours if uncut.
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Fridge: To keep leftovers fresh, store your tart in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best taste.
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Freezer: If you’d like to save it for longer, wrap the cooled tart tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: For optimal flavor and texture, reheat individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the crust may lose its crispness.
What to Serve with Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust?
A slice of this delightful tart pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors and textures, perfect for a complete summer meal.
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Italian Chopped Salad:
A vibrant mix of crisp greens, olives, and tangy cheese that brings freshness to every bite while complementing the tart’s richness. -
Mediterranean Bean Salad:
Bursting with protein and flavor, this dish adds a delightful contrast to the creamy custard with its hearty beans and zesty dressing. -
Garlic Roasted Asparagus:
The crunchy, roasted asparagus provides a nice crunch and subtle garlic flavor, enhancing the earthy notes of the fresh tomatoes. -
Charcuterie Board:
Artfully arranged cured meats, cheeses, and fruits create a beautiful pairing that adds variety and indulgence to your meal. -
Crusty Baguette:
Freshly baked bread allows for dipping into the delicious custard and makes for a satisfying addition to your dining experience. -
White Wine Spritzer:
A refreshing spritzer with a hint of citrus elevates the tart’s flavors and adds a bubbly touch to your summer gathering. -
Lemon Sorbet:
This light and refreshing dessert provides a sweet, tangy finish, cleansing the palate after the savory flavors of the tart.
Each of these options will enhance your Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust, creating a meal that sings with summer freshness!
Simple Tomato Tart Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize this delicious tart to suit your taste!
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Cherry Tomatoes: Swap heirloom tomatoes for assorted colorful cherry tomatoes to create a vibrant, eye-catching tart.
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Zucchini & Peppers: Add sliced zucchini or bell peppers for a delightful mix of textures and an extra dose of veggies.
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Bacon or Ham: Incorporate crispy bacon bits or diced ham into the filling for a savory, non-vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
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Herbed Cheese: For an aromatic upgrade, try using herbed goat cheese instead of Fontina. This adds a tangy flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the custard mix for a subtle heat that enhances the tart’s overall flavor profile.
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Mustard Variation: Substitute Dijon mustard for a dollop of pesto in the custard for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
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Nutty Crust: Experiment by replacing half the all-purpose flour with ground almonds or hazelnuts for a nutty flavor and added health benefits.
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Seasonal Veggies: In addition to tomatoes, toss in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or corn, which can elevate the dish and make it even more summer-friendly.
Expert Tips for Simple Tomato Tart
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill before baking helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a flaky crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Select Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, choose heirloom or ripe tomatoes. They add sweetness and moisture to the custard in your Simple Tomato Tart.
- Avoid Overmixing: When blending the custard ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent air bubbles. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use a Removable Bottom Pan: A tart pan with a removable bottom allows for beautiful presentation and makes slicing easier.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tart as it bakes; ovens vary. It should be golden brown and firm but not dry. Enjoy while warm for the best experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Tomato Tarts with a Press-In Crust are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and custard filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the crust ingredients and press them into the tart pan, then refrigerate. For the custard, combine the eggs, cream, and cheese mixture, and store it separately in the fridge. On the day you plan to serve, just pour the custard over the chilled crust, layer your fresh tomato slices, and bake! This method saves you valuable time and ensures the tart is just as delicious, maintaining perfect freshness and flavor. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust Recipe FAQs
What kind of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Simple Tomato Tart, I highly recommend using ripe heirloom tomatoes. They offer a natural sweetness and juicy texture that elevates the tart’s taste. If you can’t find heirlooms, vine-ripened varieties also work well. Look for tomatoes that are brightly colored and slightly soft to the touch, which indicates ripeness.
How should I store leftover tomato tart?
To keep your Simple Tomato Tart fresh, allow it to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the tart for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures it stays nice and tasty, just like when it was freshly baked!
Can I freeze the Simple Tomato Tart? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing is an excellent option for longer storage. Wrap the cooled Simple Tomato Tart tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw the tart overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
What can I do if my tart crust shrinks while baking?
Very! If your crust shrinks, it could be due to overworking the dough or not chilling it long enough. To prevent this, be gentle when mixing and roll the dough out just enough to fit your tart pan. After pressing it in, chilling it for 20-30 minutes is critical. Next time, try leaving the dough in the fridge longer to relax the gluten, making it less prone to shrinkage during baking.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This Simple Tomato Tart contains common allergens like eggs and dairy (from milk and cheese). For a dairy-free option, consider substituting vegan cheese and using a dairy-free cream alternative. If you’re allergic to eggs, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) as a binder in the custard. Always double-check ingredients for allergen information, especially if serving to guests.
Savory Simple Tomato Tart with a Press-In Crust for Summer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Pour in melted butter and cold water, then mix until a dough forms. Press this dough into a 10-inch tart pan, ensuring it reaches the edges, and chill for 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for the tart.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Stir in the grated Fontina cheese until well combined, creating a luscious custard filling.
- Pour the custard mixture into the chilled crust, then arrange tomato slices over the top. Sprinkle with any reserved cheese to enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The tart is ready when the custard is set and the crust turns golden brown.
- Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme for an aromatic touch.