Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart

Name: Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pie crust; 4 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Collection

I absolutely love making this Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart as it brings a burst of freshness to our weekend meals. The combination of ripe tomatoes and creamy ricotta nestled in a flaky crust is simply irresistible. Every bite melts in your mouth, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a stunning appetizer for dinner guests, it never fails to impress. This recipe is a celebration of simple yet vibrant ingredients, perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of deliciousness.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:49:34.712Z

Preparing this Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart has become a cherished tradition in our home. I love the way the kitchen fills with the aroma of baking tomatoes and herbs, creating a cozy ambiance. The process is fairly straightforward, but I found that using fresh, seasonal tomatoes makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Slicing them thinly helps them cook evenly, resulting in a beautiful presentation.

What truly sets this tart apart is the blend of ricotta and herbs that creates a creamy base, enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. I’ve learned to be generous with the seasoning, as this really elevates the overall taste. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh flavors that brighten your table
Creamy ricotta with a hint of herbs
Deliciously flaky crust that complements the filling

      

Creating the Perfect Crust

A flaky crust is essential for the success of your Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart. If you're using a pre-made pie crust, make sure to keep it chilled until you are ready to use it, as this helps prevent shrinking during baking. When pressing it into the tart pan, aim for an even thickness to ensure that every bite has that delightful crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own crust using flour, butter, and a hint of salt for extra flavor and texture.

When baking the crust, pricking the bottom with a fork is vital. This technique prevents air pockets from forming, which can lead to a bubbly crust that detracts from the overall presentation. If you notice the crust puffing up during baking, gently pressing it down with a spatula will help maintain its shape.

Tomato Selection and Preparation

The choice of tomatoes significantly impacts the flavor of your tart. Opt for large, ripe tomatoes that are in season for maximum sweetness and juiciness. Varieties like heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes work exceptionally well. To ensure your tart isn’t too watery, sprinkle the tomato slices with a little salt after slicing—this helps draw out excess moisture. Allow them to rest for about 10 minutes before layering, ensuring a perfectly structured tart.

When layering the tomatoes, arranging them in a circular pattern not only provides an aesthetically pleasing presentation but also ensures even cooking. Start from the outer edge of the crust and work your way in, overlapping the slices slightly. This approach not only looks sophisticated but also allows for balanced flavor distribution in every slice.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the classic combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious flavor, feel free to experiment with your preferences. For a zesty twist, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese mixture. A touch of parmesan can also elevate the umami profile of the tart, making it richer and more savory.

This tart can easily be personalized to suit dietary preferences, too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat ricotta and mozzarella. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust or even a crust made from ground nuts for a unique flavor addition. Each variation will provide a different yet delicious experience, ensuring this tart suits everyone's palate.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your tart:

For the Tart

1 pre-made pie crust
4 large ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your tart:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Crust

Place the pie crust into a 9-inch tart pan, pressing it into the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Layer the Ingredients

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Then layer the sliced tomatoes on top, arranging them in a circular pattern.

Drizzle and Bake

Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and season with additional salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Serve

Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. You can also experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this Sunday Tomato Ricotta Tart ahead of time is a fantastic way to reduce stress on busy days. You can prepare the filling and layer the tomatoes a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the tart and bake it fresh for an enticing aroma that will delight your guests.

If you have leftover tart, store it in the fridge, tightly wrapped, for up to three days. Reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes will revive its flaky texture and flavors, making it almost as wonderful as when it was freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

This tart is an excellent centerpiece for any gathering, whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a show-stopping appetizer at dinner parties. Pair it with a simple mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the tomatoes. Adding toasted pine nuts to the salad can bring an extra crunch and flavor dimension.

For an elegant brunch, serve slices of the tart alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a platter of assorted cheeses. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the tart's fresh flavors beautifully, making your presentation feel special and inviting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with tarts is moisture accumulation from the tomatoes, which can lead to a soggy bottom. To counter this, pat the tomato slices dry after salting and add a thin layer of breadcrumbs or grated cheese to the crust before adding the filling. This acts as a barrier and absorbs excess moisture during baking.

If your crust appears to be browning too quickly while baking, loosely cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Monitoring the tart a few minutes before the recommended baking time is crucial, adjusting as necessary to achieve that perfect golden hue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or even feta for a tangy twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can this tart be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart a day in advance and then bake it just before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with this tart?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.