Ricotta Tart with Roast Strawberries

Let me tell you, this Ricotta Tart with Roasted Strawberries is pure magic. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust, topped with a rich and creamy ricotta filling, all crowned with sweet, caramelized strawberries that bring a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust me, once you taste it, you won’t be able to stop. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, this dessert is a winner.

And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to put together. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe—prepare to impress!

Why You’ll Love Ricotta Tart with Roast Strawberries

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
• Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this Ricotta Tart with Roasted Strawberries—simple ingredients that create something extraordinary. Let’s break it down:

For the Tart Crust:

• Buttery, flaky pastry—this forms the perfect base for the rich filling. You can use store-bought pastry to save time or make your own for an extra touch of homemade love. Either way, it’s all about that crispy texture.

For the Ricotta Filling:

• Ricotta cheese—smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy. This is the heart of the tart, giving it that perfect balance of richness and lightness.
• Eggs—binding everything together and adding richness to the filling.
• Vanilla extract—just a dash to bring out the sweetness of the strawberries and enhance the overall flavor.
• Sugar—adds a touch of sweetness to the ricotta without overpowering the delicate flavors.

For the Roasted Strawberries:

• Fresh strawberries—these beauties are roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and create that jammy texture.
• Honey—a natural sweetener that makes the strawberries even more irresistible.
• Fresh lemon juice—brightens the strawberries, adding a zesty contrast to the sweetness.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your crust bakes evenly and your strawberries roast to perfection.

Prepare the Tart Crust:
Roll out your pastry dough on a floured surface to fit your tart pan. Gently press it into the edges of the pan and trim the excess. Blind bake the crust for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Ricotta Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar. Whisk together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.

Fill the Tart Shell:
Once your crust is ready, pour the ricotta mixture into the tart shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Roast the Strawberries:
In a separate bowl, toss the strawberries with honey and fresh lemon juice. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Tart:
Once the tart shell has cooled and the strawberries are ready, place the roasted strawberries on top of the ricotta filling, arranging them beautifully.

Bake the Tart:
Bake the tart for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden around the edges. Let it cool before serving.

Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up this beauty and enjoy! You can serve it warm or at room temperature for the ultimate indulgence.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 310

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve Ricotta Tart with Roast Strawberries

This tart is a showstopper on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more delightful:

• Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the tart’s rich flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices from the strawberries.
• Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or a vanilla bean ice cream to elevate each bite.
• As a Standalone: Sometimes, this tart is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Just garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: Make the crust and ricotta filling a day ahead and store in the fridge. When you’re ready, just assemble, roast the strawberries, and bake.
• Customize Your Fruit: Swap the strawberries for other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or even peaches in the summer for a new twist.
• Dietary Adjustments: If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a dairy-free ricotta or a vegan crust option to make it suitable for all guests.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve that crispy crust.
• Freeze for Later: This tart freezes well! Just bake it, allow it to cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to a month.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese?
A1: You can try mascarpone or cream cheese, though it will change the flavor a bit. Ricotta adds a specific lightness that’s hard to replicate, but these will still work beautifully!

Q2: Can I make this tart ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Make the tart and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven to warm it up before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great the next day, but the crust may soften a bit.

Q4: Can I freeze this tart?
A4: Absolutely! After baking, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q5: Can I use frozen strawberries for roasting?
A5: Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before roasting. They may not be as sweet as fresh, so you might need to add a bit more honey.

Q6: Can I make the crust from scratch?
A6: Absolutely! If you’re up for it, a homemade pie crust will make this tart even more special. There are plenty of great recipes out there.

Q7: How do I get a crispier crust?
A7: Blind-bake the crust for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling to help it stay crispy.

Q8: What if my ricotta filling is too runny?
A8: If your ricotta mixture is too runny, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help firm it up. Be sure to mix gently!

Q9: Can I add other fruits on top?
A9: Absolutely! Roasted peaches, plums, or even figs would make delicious alternatives. Get creative with what’s in season!

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, you can easily double this recipe to make two tarts! Just adjust your baking times accordingly.

Conclusion

This Ricotta Tart with Roasted Strawberries is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to end a meal or a dessert that will impress your guests, this recipe has you covered. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know how much you love it! Happy baking!

Print