Hey there, food lovers! If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and is sure to impress, you’ve got to try this Black Pepper and Cheddar-Crusted Tomato Tart. It’s savory, cheesy, and perfect for any meal of the day. Trust me, once you try making this tart, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe! So, let’s dive in and break this down step by step.
What You’ll Need
Before you start cooking up a storm, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious tart:
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 tsp salt
3-4 tbsp cold water
For the Filling:
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes (preferably heirloom for flavor)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp black pepper (adjust to your taste)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Crust
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the softened butter, and combine until it looks like coarse crumbs.
Add Water: Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Don’t overwork it; just until it’s combined!
Chill: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it up in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling
Slice the Tomatoes: While your dough chills, slice your tomatoes into thin rounds. You can sprinkle a little salt on them to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit on paper towels to absorb some of the juices.
Mix the Cheese and Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix in the grated cheddar cheese. This filling is rich and cheesy, just how we like it!
Assembling the Tart
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll Out the Dough: Take your dough out of the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. You want it to be about ¼ inch thick. Carefully place it into a tart pan, pressing it against the sides. Trim any excess dough.
Layer the Tomatoes: Begin layering your sliced tomatoes in a circular pattern over the crust. You can be as creative as you want here—make it pretty!
Pour the Cheese Mixture: Slowly pour the cheese and egg mixture over the tomatoes, making sure it fills in all the gaps.
Baking the Tart
Bake It Up: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Let It Cool: Once out of the oven, let the tart cool for about 10-15 minutes. This helps everything set up nicely.
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Black Pepper and Cheddar-Crusted Tomato Tart warm or at room temperature. You can garnish it with some fresh basil leaves for that extra pop of color and flavor. It pairs perfectly with a simple salad or as a part of a brunch spread.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your tomatoes and cheese, the better your tart will taste. If you can, go for local or organic produce!
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to mix in herbs or spices you love. A pinch of cayenne or some Italian seasoning can change the game!
- Make Ahead: You can prep the crust and filling in advance, making it easy to pop in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
FAQs about Black Pepper and Cheddar-Crusted Tomato Tart
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! While cheddar offers a yummy sharpness, you can use mozzarella or even goat cheese for a different flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to believe because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven for the best results.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative—sautéed onions, bell peppers, or olives can add great flavor and texture.
And there you have it! A delightful Black Pepper and Cheddar-Crusted Tomato Tart that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, this tart will hit the spot. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
