If you have ever wondered how to bring together creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors in one stunning dish, the Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe is a must-try. This tart marries the rustic goodness of homemade pastry with the bright sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the distinctive creaminess of goat cheese, all elevated by a touch of aromatic Herbes de Provence. It’s an irresistible combination that makes for a perfect light lunch, impressive appetizer, or even a delightful picnic treat. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to for any occasion that calls for something simple yet incredibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list because each ingredient is straightforward, accessible, and plays a vital role in bringing out the vibrant flavors and textures of this tart. The balance between the flaky crust, tangy goat cheese, and juicy cherry tomatoes is what makes this dish truly special.
- 250g all-purpose flour: The foundation for a flaky, tender pastry crust that holds everything together perfectly.
- 125g butter, cubed: Cold butter ensures a rich, crumbly texture in the dough—don’t skip chilling it!
- 80ml water: Helps bind the pastry dough without making it tough—add gradually for the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the subtle flavors in your dough and filling.
- 1 log of goat cheese: The star of the show, offering creamy tanginess that melts beautifully during baking.
- A handful of cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color on every slice.
- 100ml heavy cream: Brings luscious richness to the filling, balancing acidity from the cheese and tomatoes.
- 1 egg: Helps set the filling for a smooth, custardy texture.
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with goat cheese.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural tastes of the ingredients.
- Herbes de Provence, to taste: A fragrant herb mix that infuses the tart with a lovely aromatic essence, elevating every bite.
How to Make Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
Start with combining the all-purpose flour and chilled cubed butter in a bowl. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse sand. This step is crucial because it creates the deliciously flaky texture of the crust. Make a well in the center and gradually add water as you mix gently to bring the dough together. Wrap your dough ball in plastic and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes—this chilling step helps the dough relax and prevents shrinking during baking.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While your dough chills, turn on your oven to 180°C (350°F) so that it’s perfectly heated and ready to bake the tart once assembled.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Dust your clean surface lightly with flour and roll out the chilled dough into a size that fits your tart pan. Transferring it gently to a greased tart pan, press the dough evenly along the base and sides. Don’t forget to prick a few holes with a fork to prevent the crust from puffing as it bakes.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and whole-grain mustard until smooth. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will add a wonderfully creamy, tangy layer that beautifully supports the toppings.
Step 5: Assemble the Tart
Pour the cream filling evenly over the tart base. Slice the goat cheese log into thick rounds and halve your cherry tomatoes. Arrange these goat cheese slices and tomato halves stylishly on top of the tart. Finally, sprinkle Herbes de Provence all over for that fragrant boost.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling is set but still creamy. The tomatoes will be beautifully roasted, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the tart to cool just for a few minutes before slicing and serving. It tastes amazing both warm and at room temperature, making it wonderfully versatile for any time of day!
How to Serve Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil immediately before serving enhances the tart’s freshness and flavor. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right at the end can add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that makes each bite shine.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and a dash of balsamic vinegar. For a heartier meal, consider roasting some seasonal vegetables alongside or serving with a bowl of light soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this tart on a rustic wooden board with a scattering of fresh herbs around creates an inviting and homely feel. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares for party platters, pairing each piece with a toothpick and a small dollop of pesto or tapenade for an elegant appetizer option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and the flavors deepen over time, making for delightful next-day bites.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the tart, it’s best to bake it fully and cool it completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen tart will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain that lovely flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pastry instead of making my own?
Absolutely! While homemade pastry adds a wonderful personal touch, store-bought shortcrust or puff pastry can save time and still yield delicious results with this Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe.
What variety of goat cheese works best in this tart?
A mild to moderately tangy log of goat cheese is ideal, as it melts nicely without overpowering the other ingredients. Soft goat cheeses with a creamy texture balance beautifully with roasted tomatoes.
Can I substitute cherry tomatoes with other types?
Yes, grape tomatoes or halved small heirloom tomatoes can be great alternatives. Just choose ripe tomatoes for the sweetest, juiciest effect.
Is it possible to make this tart vegetarian or vegan?
The tart is vegetarian as is, but for a vegan version, you’d need to replace the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and swap the heavy cream and egg for non-dairy substitutes like cashew cream and flaxseed egg.
How long does it take to prepare and bake this Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe?
It takes about 1 hour in total, with 30 minutes dedicated to chilling the dough and approximately 30 minutes for baking. The prep work is simple and very rewarding!
Final Thoughts
This Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity and elegance effortlessly. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it promises to deliver bright, fresh flavors with a comforting, flaky finish. Trust me, once you make this tart, it will quickly become a favorite staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the joyful experience of baking this delightful dish!
Print
Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Goat Cheese & Cherry Tomato Tart is a delightful savory pastry that combines a buttery homemade crust with a creamy goat cheese and cherry tomato topping. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, it features a blend of tangy goat cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a smooth custard filling infused with whole-grain mustard and Herbes de Provence for an aromatic finish.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 125g butter, cubed
- 80ml (8cl) water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 log of goat cheese
- Cherry tomatoes (about a handful)
- 100ml (10cl) heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Herbes de Provence, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cubed butter. Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Create a well in the center, gradually add the water, and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to rest and firm up.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare it for baking the tart.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough evenly to fit your tart pan. Grease the tart pan and carefully transfer the dough, pressing it into the sides and bottom. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and whole-grain mustard. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. This mixture will form the custard base of the tart.
- Assemble the Tart: Pour the cream mixture evenly over the tart base. Slice the goat cheese log into rounds and halve the cherry tomatoes. Arrange the goat cheese slices and halved cherry tomatoes on top of the custard layer. Finally, sprinkle Herbes de Provence evenly over the entire tart for added fragrance and flavor.
- Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set and slightly puffed.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm or cold as a light meal or an elegant appetizer.
Notes
- The dough can be prepared up to a day ahead and kept refrigerated to save time.
- For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before baking.
- Substitute cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the dough is well chilled before rolling to make it easier to handle and improve the tart’s flakiness.
- This tart pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a chilled glass of white wine.
