Heirloom Tomato Tart

Name: Heirloom Tomato Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; 4 to 5 medium heirloom tomatoes (sliced); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

75 min 8 slices Medium

All Recipes

Savour the rich flavours of heirloom tomatoes in a flaky tart crust, perfect as a side or light lunch.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Heirloom Tomato Tart is a celebration of summer's bounty, showcasing the vibrant colours and rich flavours of heirloom tomatoes. This dish is ideal for those who appreciate the natural sweetness and unique textures of these special tomatoes. The tart combines a flaky, buttery crust with a savoury filling of mustard and cheese, topped with fresh slices of heirloom tomatoes. Each bite promises a burst of flavour, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a light lunch on its own.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure butter stays cold for a flaky crust.

Blind bake the crust

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough and fit into a 23 cm (9-inch) tart pan. Prick with a fork, line with parchment, and fill with weights. Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights, bake 5 more minutes.

Pro tip: Blind baking prevents a soggy bottom.

Spread mustard and cheese

Spread Dijon mustard over the baked crust. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese evenly.

Pro tip: Mustard adds a tangy undertone.

Arrange tomatoes

Layer tomato slices over the cheese. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.

Pro tip: Use a mix of tomato colours for visual appeal.

Bake the tart

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until tomatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Pro tip: Let the tart cool for easier slicing.

Serve

Allow the tart to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pro tip: Cool slightly for neat slices.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose a variety of heirloom tomatoes for a colourful tart.
Blind bake the crust to prevent sogginess.
Use Dijon mustard for a tangy base.
Let the tart cool slightly for easier slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tarte à la tomates?

It is a savoury tart featuring ripe tomatoes, often paired with cheese and herbs in a flaky crust.

How do I make a tomato tart?

Prepare a crust, blind bake it, add a layer of mustard and cheese, arrange tomatoes, and bake until golden.

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, while heirloom tomatoes are recommended for their flavour and colour, other ripe tomatoes can be used.

What is the purpose of mustard in the tart?

Mustard adds a tangy flavour that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

How do I avoid a soggy tart crust?

Blind bake the crust before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tart warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of flavour. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water. This tart can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a low oven to restore the crust's crispness before serving.