This Zucchini and Cheese Puff Pastry Tart is a flaky, cheesy, and savory delight that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Featuring fresh zucchini slices, gooey cheese, and crispy puff pastry, it’s a quick and elegant dish that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Makes: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (approximately 9×12 inches or 23×30 cm), thawed if frozen
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 g) ricotta or cream cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases.
- Transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet.
- Create a Border:
- Using a knife, score a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges of the puff pastry without cutting all the way through.
- Poke the center area of the pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much.
- Prepare the Cheese Base:
- In a bowl, mix ricotta or cream cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly inside the scored border.
- Assemble the Tart:
- Arrange the zucchini slices in overlapping layers on top of the cheese mixture.
- Brush the zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Egg Wash the Edges:
- Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake:
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Pair with a bowl of soup for a hearty lunch.
- Enjoy as an appetizer at a dinner party.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for even zucchini slices.
- Swap out the cheeses with your favorites, such as feta or gouda, for a different flavor.
- Sprinkle red chili flakes for a hint of heat.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C.
- Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.
- Puff pastry: Provides a satisfying flaky texture.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made gluten-free using gluten-free puff pastry.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or toaster oven for the best texture.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked tart for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual meals to elegant gatherings.
- The combination of flaky pastry and cheesy zucchini is simply irresistible!
Conclusion
The Zucchini and Cheese Puff Pastry Tart is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and visually stunning. Its flaky crust, creamy cheese base, and fresh zucchini topping make it a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Try it for your next brunch or dinner and watch it disappear in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use other vegetables? Yes, tomatoes, bell peppers, or asparagus work well as substitutes.
2. How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy? Ensure the zucchini slices are patted dry before layering.
3. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead? Yes, though the texture will differ slightly.
4. Can I make this tart ahead of time? You can assemble the tart and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking.
5. What can I serve this with? A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or soup are excellent pairings.
6. Can I freeze leftovers? While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month.
7. What cheese works best? Mozzarella and Parmesan create a melty, savory flavor, but feel free to experiment.
8. Can I make this recipe vegan? Use dairy-free puff pastry and vegan cheese substitutes.
9. How do I reheat this tart? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
10. Can I add protein? Yes, cooked bacon, ham, or grilled chicken can be added for extra protein.