Description
These Caprese Pesto Tarts are a delightful blend of flaky puff pastry, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil pesto. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant appetizer, they combine classic Italian flavors in an easy-to-make tart that’s golden, crispy, and bursting with freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
Fillings
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 3 medium-sized tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup basil pesto
Other
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the tarts evenly and creating a crispy, golden crust.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry so it is slightly larger than its original size. Cut the dough into 4 to 6 equal squares to form individual tart bases.
- Score Pastry Borders: Place the pastry squares on a lined baking tray. Carefully score a 1-inch border around each square without cutting through the dough. This allows the edges to puff up while keeping the filling contained.
- Spread Basil Pesto: Within the scored borders of each tart, spread a thin layer of basil pesto evenly to infuse the base with fresh herb flavor.
- Layer Cheese and Tomatoes: Arrange the sliced mozzarella evenly on top of the pesto, followed by the thin tomato slices. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush the edges of each tart with the egg wash. This step will give the crust a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is risen and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top each tart with fresh basil leaves for added aroma and freshness.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the tarts to add shine and a slight fruity richness.
- Serve: Serve the tarts warm or at room temperature, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Use ripe, firm tomatoes to avoid sogginess in the tart.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the pesto does not contain Parmesan or use a vegan pesto.
- These tarts can be made ahead and reheated gently in the oven.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat to restore crispiness.
