A savory tomato crostata is the perfect way to enjoy heirloom tomatoes and a great summer appetizer. The butter flakey pasta pairs wonderfully with the sweet and acidic tomatoes. While many recipes call for goat cheese fillings, I prefer the lighter flavor of ricotta. For me, I want the beautiful tomato flavor to be the star in this recipe and goat cheese can overpower it.
If you never had a tomato crostata before, give this recipe a try! It will be your new go to summer appetizer!
Heirloom Tomato Crostata
Description
A rustic heirloom tomato crostata, or pie, with a simple ricotta and basil filling drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients
Pie Filling
Pie Dough
Instructions
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Prepare the tomatoes
Cut the tomatoes in thick slices. Place the cut tomatoes in a bowl with a 1/2 teaspoon of salt and let rest for 30 minutes.
The salt will help draw out the moisture and prevent the pie from being soggy. -
Make the pie dough
Cube and place the butter in the freezer for 10 minutes. Using a food processor or pastry blender combine the flour and butter. Blend until the butter is fully mixed and crumbly. Slowly drizzle in the water 1 tablespoon at a time. Press to combine the dough into a disk then cover and let rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
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Make the ricotta filling
Combine the ricotta, egg yolk, sliced basil, salt and pepper.
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Roll out the dough
Remove the dough from the fridge and roll into a 14 inch round diameter.
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Prepare the pie
Evenly spread the ricotta mixture on the pie dough, leaving a 1.5 inch from the edge. Add the tomatoes overlapping then drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
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Shape the pie
Fold the edges over to seal the pie. Beat together an egg and brush over the crust. This will help the crust turn golden brown. Lightly sprinkle kosher salt on the crust.
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Bake the pie
Bake the tomato crostata for 30 minutes at 450.
Let cool completely before serving.
