When it comes to creating delicious and visually appealing dishes, few can compare to the beauty of a tart. The combination of a buttery, flaky crust with a flavorful filling is simply irresistible.

One popular variation of tart is the Eggplant and Tomato Tart with a Twist.

The Perfect Crust

Every great tart starts with an exceptional crust. For this twist on the classic recipe, we recommend using a homemade herbed crust. To make this crust, you will need the following ingredients:.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
3 tablespoons ice-cold water
1 tablespoon fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, chopped

To prepare the crust, follow these simple steps:.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the ice-cold water over the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, and gently mix until a dough forms.
Add the chopped herbs and knead the dough just until the herbs are evenly distributed.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

While the dough is chilling, you can start preparing the filling for your Eggplant and Tomato Tart.

The Flavorful Filling

This tart filling is a delightful combination of roasted eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and a rich cheese base. Here’s what you’ll need:.

1 medium-sized eggplant, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
2 large tomatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

To assemble the filling and complete your tart, follow these steps:.

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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the sliced eggplant rounds on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast them in the oven for about 15 minutes or until they become soft and slightly golden.
In the meantime, gently mix the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Once the eggplant rounds are done, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly.
Roll out the chilled herbed crust on a lightly floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about ¼ inch. Transfer the crust to a tart pan, pressing it gently against the sides.
Spoon the ricotta cheese mixture onto the crust and spread it evenly.
Arrange the roasted eggplant rounds and tomato slices on top of the ricotta mixture in an alternating pattern, creating a visually appealing design.
Place the tart in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust turns golden and the filling is set.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This Eggplant and Tomato Tart with a Twist is best served warm or at room temperature. It makes a perfect appetizer for a dinner party or a delightful main course when paired with a fresh green salad.

Experiment with Additional Flavors

While the classic combination of eggplant and tomato is already a winner, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to add more depth and flavor to your tart.

For a touch of sweetness, you can include caramelized onions alongside the eggplant and tomatoes. The sweetness of the onions will complement the savory flavors beautifully.

Alternatively, you can add some tanginess by incorporating crumbled feta cheese into the ricotta mixture.

Don’t shy away from exploring other herbs and spices as well. Fresh mint can provide a refreshing twist, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring some heat to the tart. Let your creativity run wild and make this recipe truly your own!.