A visually stunning and delicious savory tart made with vibrant heirloom tomatoes, this dish showcases summer produce at its finest. Layered over a bed of herbed cheese and Dijon mustard, and encased in a golden, buttery puff pastry crust, this tart is rustic, elegant, and incredibly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This heirloom tomato tart combines the richness of flaky puff pastry with the acidity and sweetness of fresh tomatoes for a delightful contrast. It’s the perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or light dinner—and ideal for summer entertaining when tomatoes are at their peak. It looks impressive, but comes together quickly with store-bought puff pastry and minimal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4–5 medium heirloom tomatoes (mixed colors), thinly sliced
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Herbes de Provence
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or tart pan with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to fit your tart pan or shape into a rustic rectangle directly on the sheet.
3. Prick the center of the pastry with a fork, leaving a ½-inch border around the edge unpierced so it can puff up during baking.
4. Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the pricked area of the pastry.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella (or Gruyère) and Parmesan cheese over the mustard.
6. Arrange the tomato slices on top in a slightly overlapping pattern.
7. Lightly season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme or Herbes de Provence.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the pastry is golden and the tomatoes are slightly roasted and caramelized.
10. Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil or thyme leaves, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This tart serves 4 to 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and baking time is about 35 minutes. Total time: roughly 50 minutes.

Variations

• Cheese swap: Try goat cheese, ricotta, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Pastry base: Use a homemade tart crust or phyllo dough for a variation in texture.
• Add caramelized onions: A layer of sweet onions adds depth and richness beneath the tomatoes.
• Add pesto: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto in place of mustard for a fresh herbaceous twist.
• Mini tarts: Cut pastry into smaller portions for individual servings or appetizers.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom?

Yes, but heirloom tomatoes offer better flavor and color variety. Just be sure to pat regular tomatoes dry to reduce excess moisture.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Pricking the dough and layering cheese and mustard beneath the tomatoes helps create a barrier. Avoid overly juicy tomato slices and pat them dry before arranging.

Do I need a tart pan?

No, you can create a freeform tart directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a rustic presentation.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, bake the tart in advance and reheat in the oven just before serving. It’s also delicious served at room temperature.

Is puff pastry the same as phyllo dough?

No, puff pastry is rich and buttery, while phyllo is thin and crisp. Substituting phyllo will change the texture, but it can still work.

Can I freeze this tart?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 15–20 minutes.

What herbs pair well with this tart?

Fresh basil, thyme, oregano, or chives all complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use vegan puff pastry and substitute plant-based cheese and yogurt or mustard. Skip Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.

What can I serve with this tart?

It pairs well with a crisp green salad, chilled white wine, or a light soup.

Can I use cherry tomatoes?

Yes, halved cherry tomatoes work well and add a burst of sweetness and visual appeal.

Conclusion

The heirloom tomato tart with flaky puff pastry is a seasonal delight—beautiful to look at and even better to eat. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this rustic tart makes an elegant centerpiece for summer meals, brunches, or garden parties. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s a dish that highlights the best of fresh produce and timeless French-inspired baking.

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