Description
Caprese Pesto Tarts combine flaky puff pastry with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto for a delightful Italian-inspired appetizer or light meal. These tarts are easy to prepare, baked to golden perfection, and topped with fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
Cheese and Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 3 medium-sized tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
Sauce and Seasoning
- ½ cup basil pesto
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the puff pastry tarts.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet slightly larger than its original size. Then, cut it into 4 to 6 equal squares depending on preferred tart size.
- Score Borders: Place the pastry squares on a lined baking tray. Using a knife, score a 1-inch border around each square carefully without cutting all the way through to create a raised edge after baking.
- Spread Pesto: Evenly spread a thin layer of basil pesto inside the scored border of each pastry square, serving as a flavorful base.
- Layer Toppings: Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the pesto, followed by thin slices of tomato. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg thoroughly and brush the mixture along the edges of each tart to promote a golden, glossy crust.
- Bake Tarts: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry has puffed up and turned golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Top with fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbal freshness.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Just before serving, drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the tarts to add richness and shine.
- Serve: Serve the Caprese Pesto Tarts warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be sure not to cut fully through the pastry when scoring the borders to keep the edges raised for holding the toppings.
- Using fresh, ripe tomatoes will significantly improve the flavor of the tarts.
- The tarts can be served as an appetizer, light lunch, or part of a brunch spread.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently to retain crispness.
- For a vegetarian diet, ensure the basil pesto does not contain any non-vegetarian ingredients like animal rennet or anchovies.
