🍅 Vibrant Caprese Tart with Basil Drizzle

Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products I genuinely trust and believe will bring value to my readers. Also, some of the content was created with strategic use of AI tools. For more information, please visit the Privacy Policy page. Thank you for supporting my blog and helping me continue to provide valuable content.

Flaky puff pastry layered with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a drizzle of aromatic basil oil—a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad.

When my garden is bursting with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, I find myself inspired to create dishes that showcase these summer treasures. This Italian Caprese Tart with Basil Oil is a testament to the season’s bounty. The combination of buttery puff pastry, luscious tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all elevated by the vibrant basil oil, makes for a dish that’s both rustic and refined.

It’s perfect for a light lunch, a stunning appetizer, or a side dish that steals the show. And the best part? It’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat.

📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients
• ✅ Simple yet elegant presentation
• ✅ Versatile: serve warm or at room temperature
• ✅ Perfect for gatherings or a special family meal
• ✅ Naturally vegetarian

📌 Quick Reference

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Info: Vegetarian

⭐ Key Ingredients at a Glance

puff pastry • fresh tomatoes • mozzarella • fresh basil • olive oil

📌 Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4–5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

📝 Substitutions & Notes:

• Use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
• Substitute burrata for mozzarella for a creamier texture.
• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free puff pastry.

📌 Step-by-Step Instructions

🍃 1. Prepare the Basil Oil

In a blender, combine basil leaves and olive oil. Blend until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. Set aside.

🧑‍🍳 2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

🥐 3. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unfold the puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a 1-inch border around the edges, being careful not to cut all the way through. Prick the center with a fork to prevent puffing.

🍅 4. Assemble the Tart

Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately within the scored border. Season with salt and pepper. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.

🔥 5. Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

🌿 6. Finish with Basil Oil

Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the basil oil over the top, and add a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.

📌 Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad for a light meal.
• Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Cut into smaller squares for an elegant appetizer at gatherings.

📌 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the basil oil and slice the tomatoes and mozzarella ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving.

📌 Final Thoughts

This Italian Caprese Tart with Basil Oil is a celebration of summer’s finest flavors. It’s a dish that brings together simplicity and sophistication, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag @SouthernSoilSunshine. For more garden-inspired dishes, check out our Zucchini Noodles with Thai Peanut Sauce and Lemongrass-Ginger Iced Tea with Mint.