Tomato and cheese tarts are a delightful combination of savory flavors wrapped in crispy filo pastry. These bite-sized tarts are perfect as an appetizer or a light lunch option. The recipe features layers of filo pastry filled with low-fat soft cheese, fresh basil leaves, and juicy tomato slices. The tarts are then baked to golden perfection, resulting in a delicious and visually appealing dish. With their delicate balance of textures and flavors, these tomato and cheese tarts are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 sheets filo pastry
- 1 egg white
- 100g/4oz low-fat soft cheese
- Handful of fresh basil leaves
- 3 small tomatoes, sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas mark 6.
- Brush the sheets of filo pastry lightly with the egg white and cut them into 16 squares, each measuring about 10cm/4in.
- Layer the filo pastry squares in pairs, placing them in eight patty tins.
- Spoon the low-fat soft cheese into the pastry cases.
- Season the tarts with salt and pepper and top them with fresh basil leaves.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the tarts and season again with salt and pepper.
- Bake the tarts for 10-12 minutes or until they turn golden.
TIPS:
- Make sure to brush the filo pastry with the egg white lightly to ensure a crisp and golden crust.
- When layering the filo pastry squares, press them gently into the patty tins to form the tart shells.
- Experiment with different types of cheese such as feta, goat cheese, or mozzarella for variations in flavor.
- Feel free to add additional toppings such as olives, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic to enhance the taste of the tarts.
- Serve the tomato and cheese tarts warm for the best flavor and texture.
YIELD:
- The recipe makes 8 tomato and cheese tarts.
Tomato and cheese tarts are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your taste buds. These bite-sized tarts feature layers of crispy filo pastry filled with low-fat soft cheese, fresh basil leaves, and juicy tomato slices. Baked to a golden perfection, these tarts are not only delicious but also visually appealing.
To prepare the tarts, brush the filo pastry sheets with egg white and cut them into squares. Layer the squares in pairs, forming tart shells in patty tins. Fill the tart shells with low-fat soft cheese and season with salt and pepper. Top the tarts with fresh basil leaves and arrange tomato slices on top. Season again with salt and pepper, then bake until golden.
These tomato and cheese tarts offer a perfect balance of flavors. The creaminess of the cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes, while the fresh basil adds a hint of aromatic freshness. The filo pastry provides a crispy and light texture that complements the filling.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add additional toppings such as olives, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic to customize the tarts to your liking. Serve them warm to enjoy the full flavors and textures.
Whether you serve these tomato and cheese tarts as an appetizer for a party or as a light lunch option, they are sure to be a hit. Their elegant presentation and delicious taste make them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
So, gather your ingredients and indulge in these delectable tomato and cheese tarts. They are quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
