
Gourmet Garlic and Zucchini Ratatouille Tart
Savor the Mediterranean magic with this Gourmet Garlic and Zucchini Ratatouille Tart, where a flaky puff pastry crust envelops a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables. This tart is a celebration of summer's bounty, featuring tender zucchini, luscious eggplant, and sweet red bell peppers, all sautéed to perfection with aromatic garlic. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a touch of tang, while a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan and fragrant basil provides the perfect finishing touch. Historically, ratatouille originates from the sun-soaked fields of Provence, France, where farmers created rustic dishes to highlight seasonal produce. This tart transforms that humble tradition into an elegant dish that delights the senses, perfect as an appetizer or a stunning main course.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- Puff pastry (1 sheet, thawed)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Zucchini (1 medium, diced)
- Red bell pepper (1, diced)
- Eggplant (1 small, diced)
- Tomatoes (2 medium, sliced)
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon)
- Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated)
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit a baking sheet (approximately 12x16 inches). Transfer the pastry to the sheet and gently press it into place, leaving a slight border around the edges.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and eggplant to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Spread the sautéed vegetable mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving the border clear for a beautiful presentation.
- Arrange the tomato slices on top of the vegetable layer in an overlapping pattern for an eye-catching finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the tart from the oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese to add an aromatic touch.
- Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Dietary Information
Servings: 6 • Dish Type: Appetizer/Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 250 • Fat: 15g • Carbs: 22g • Protein: 6g • Sodium: 280mg • Sugar: 4g