Description

Tomato Tartlets are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer combining fresh ripe tomatoes with creamy plant-based cheese and aromatic herbs on a crisp puff pastry base. Perfect for casual or elegant occasions, these bite-sized tartlets offer vibrant, fresh flavors and a simple preparation suitable for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients

Fresh tomatoes (cherry or grape), thinly sliced – about 1 cup
Plant-based cheese – 1/2 cup, smooth and spreadable
Puff pastry sheets – 1 sheet, thawed if frozen
Fresh basil leaves – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped plus extra for garnish
Garlic (natural flavoring), minced – 1 clove
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons, plus extra for drizzling
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Freshly ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Natural gelling agent – 1 teaspoon

Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry Base: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a floured surface, cutting it into small circles or squares about 3 inches in size. Place the dough pieces onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Prick the center lightly with a fork to prevent unwanted puffing. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and just set. Remove and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Tomato and Cheese Filling: While the pastry bakes, thinly slice the tomatoes and gently toss them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic (natural flavoring), salt, and pepper. In a bowl, mix the plant-based cheese with the natural gelling agent to achieve a smooth, spreadable texture. Add the finely chopped fresh basil leaves to the cheese mixture for extra freshness and stir well.
Assemble the Tartlets: Once the pastry bases are cool enough to handle, spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture evenly on each one. Top generously with the seasoned tomato slices, piling them slightly for an attractive presentation.
Final Bake and Garnish: Return the assembled tartlets to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, just enough to warm the tomatoes and slightly melt the cheese. Remove from the oven and garnish each tartlet with fresh basil leaves. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil for a glossy and appetizing look.

Notes

Choose firm tomatoes to prevent sogginess and maintain tartlet structure.
Keep puff pastry chilled before baking for a crisp and flaky crust.
Avoid overloading the tartlets with toppings to keep pastry crisp.
Add fresh herbs just before serving to retain their bright flavor.
A small amount of natural gelling agent helps achieve a silky, smooth cheese texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: International

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tartlets
Calories: 180
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Tomato Tartlets, Plant-based Cheese, Puff Pastry Appetizer, Vegan Appetizer, Easy Bite-sized Snack, Fresh Tomato Recipe