This tart balances a flaky, buttery pastry with a medley of caramelized vegetables including zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. The filling blends crème fraîche, eggs, and melted Gruyère cheese, topped with fresh basil for aromatic notes. Roasting the vegetables brings out natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this dish pairs well with green salads or chilled white wine.
The first time I made this roasted vegetable tart, it was a spontaneous decision when I found some fresh veggies in my fridge that needed using. The vibrant colors and warm, comforting aromas filled my kitchen and instantly made me feel like I had stumbled upon a new favorite to share with friends.
I remember the first time unexpected guests arrived and I threw this together with what I had. The crispy edges and soft filling earned me instant compliments and requests for the recipe, making it a warm memory that sticks.
Ingredients
- Puff pastry: Ready-made ones save time and get golden and flaky like a dream
- Zucchini: Sliced thin for even roasting and subtle sweetness
- Red and yellow bell peppers: Their color and slight crunch add beautiful contrast
- Red onion: Thin slices caramelize beautifully adding depth
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved to burst and add a juicy pop
- Olive oil: Quality matters for that lovely roasted flavor
- Herbes de Provence: A sprinkle adds that classic French twist
- Crème fraîche or sour cream: Creamy base that keeps the filling tender
- Eggs: Bind everything together
- Gruyère or Emmental cheese: Melts into cheesy goodness
- Fresh basil: Added for brightness and garnish
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to a nice hot 200°C (400°F) and line your baking tray with parchment. It’s the start of that warm roasted smell you’ll love.
- Roast Those Veggies:
- Spread out sliced zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes evenly on the tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the herbes de Provence plus salt and pepper. Toss until they gleam and begin to soften. Pop them in the oven, turning halfway to get those lovely caramelized edges.
- Prepare the Base:
- Lower oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out your puff pastry in a tart pan, trimming edges and pricking the base with a fork. This keeps it from puffing too much.
- Mix the Filling:
- Whisk together crème fraîche, eggs, cheese, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until smooth and promising.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the creamy filling over your pastry base, then layer on those roasted vegetables like a colorful blanket. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the filling sets and golden edges beckon.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the tart rest for 10 minutes before slicing so it holds together well. Garnish with extra basil and dive in!
This tart became more than food one Sunday afternoon, turning a casual meal into a celebration of simple ingredients dancing together—a perfect moment of comfort and joy shared around the table.
Keeping It Fresh
If you’re making this ahead, roast the vegetables and keep them refrigerated separately from the pastry and filling. Assemble just before baking to preserve that fresh, crisp contrast.
When You're Missing Something
Don’t have herbes de Provence? Try oregano or thyme instead. No Gruyère? Emmental or even a sharp cheddar bring a different but tasty twist.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
We love pairing this tart with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and a chilled white wine. It’s casual elegance that feels effortless.
- Remember to serve warm for the best texture
- Leftovers reheat nicely but lose some crispness
- A sprinkle of fresh basil right before serving adds the perfect finishing touch
Thanks for spending some kitchen time chatting about this tart—it’s one I hope will bring you as much joy as it has brought me and mine!
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for roasting in this tart?
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Zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes are ideal, offering sweet and savory flavors that caramelize nicely.
- → Can I prepare the tart ahead of time?
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Yes, you can roast the vegetables and make the filling in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving for freshness.
- → What cheese enhances the tart's flavor?
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Gruyère or Emmental cheese adds a creamy, nutty element that complements the roasted vegetables well.
- → How should I store leftovers?
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Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for best taste and texture.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for the pastry?
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Gluten-free puff pastry can be used to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flakiness.