Tarte 'A La Tomate
A savory tomato and cheese tart featuring thinly sliced gruyere and fresh tomatoes, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer with a rich, cheesy flavor and crispy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the pie shell and let it cool. Sprinkle sliced tomatoes with salt and drain for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place overlapping slices of gruyere cheese in the pastry shell. Arrange tomato slices side by side on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle with pepper, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle melted margarine over the tomatoes.
- Bake on the top rack for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the pie shell with pie weights to prevent it from puffing up. If Gruyere isn't available, you can substitute with Swiss cheese for a similar flavor. For added depth, sprinkle some garlic powder or onion powder on the tomatoes before baking. If you prefer a vegetarian option, this dish fits perfectly into vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This tart can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for brunch or as a light dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For an extra treat, serve alongside French Silk Frosting for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the tart to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispiness of the crust and melt the cheese evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tarte 'A La Tomate contains roughly 50 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1299mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to mix different cheeses based on your preference. Fontina or mozzarella can work well alongside Gruyere, offering varied flavors and textures.
What can I substitute for fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are out of season, you can use canned tomatoes. Just ensure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the tart soggy.
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tart a day in advance. Just bake and let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven before serving to maintain its texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).