Description
These Caprese Pesto Tarts combine flaky puff pastry with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil pesto, and a golden egg-washed crust for a delightful appetizer or light meal. Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, these tarts offer a vibrant Italian-inspired flavor profile in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 3 medium-sized tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup basil pesto
Others
- 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’s ready for baking the tarts.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly larger than its original size. Then, cut the pastry into 4 to 6 equal squares depending on your desired tart size.
- Score Pastry Borders: Place the pastry squares on a lined baking tray. Use a knife to score a 1-inch border around each square without cutting all the way through—this helps create a puffed edge.
- Apply Pesto Layer: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto within the scored border of each pastry square, providing a flavorful base for the toppings.
- Add Cheese and Tomato: Layer slices of fresh mozzarella followed by the thinly sliced tomatoes on top of the pesto-spread pastry. Season each tart with salt and pepper to taste.
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and carefully brush the edges of each tart with the egg wash. This step ensures a golden, shiny crust when baked.
- Bake Tarts: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed, golden, and cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Top with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Just before serving, drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the tarts to enhance their flavor and add richness.
- Serve: These tarts can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them suitable for any occasion.
Notes
- If puff pastry is frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- Use ripe, firm tomatoes to avoid excess moisture that could make the pastry soggy.
- Basil pesto can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the pesto does not contain Parmesan cheese if strict vegetarianism is required.
- These tarts pair excellently with a light salad or a glass of chilled white wine.
- To make ahead, assemble but do not brush with egg wash or bake; refrigerate and bake when ready, adding the egg wash before baking.
