Imagine a dish that combines the delicate, buttery layers of puff pastry with vibrant, garden-fresh vegetables and creamy ricotta cheese - a true symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the charming countryside of France. These elegant Puff Pastry Vegetable Tarts are not just a recipe; they're a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that looks like it was crafted by a professional chef. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet lunch, these tarts are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cool.
- Dice the mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and onions) into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper, creating a smooth and seasoned base for the tarts.
- Unfold the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangular portions using a sharp knife.
- Spread a thin layer of seasoned ricotta cheese in the center of each pastry rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Distribute the diced mixed vegetables evenly over the ricotta cheese layer.
- Whisk the egg and gently brush the exposed pastry edges with the egg wash to create a golden, shiny crust.
- Transfer the prepared tarts to the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the tarts cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the pastry to set.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, light lunch, or side dish, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Always thaw puff pastry slowly at room temperature to maintain its delicate structure and prevent tearing.
- Cut vegetables into uniform, small pieces to ensure even cooking and a professional presentation.
- Don't skip the egg wash - it's the secret to achieving that gorgeous golden, glossy crust that makes these tarts look bakery-worthy.
- Leave a small border around the edges when adding fillings to prevent leakage and help the pastry rise beautifully.
- Let the tarts rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the pastry to set and make cutting easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil before baking, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- These tarts are best served immediately but can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven for a crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
