Introduction
Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta is a refreshing, vibrant dessert that takes a classic root vegetable and transforms it into something truly special. The sweet, earthy flavor of the carrots pairs beautifully with the creamy, herb-infused Green Goddess ricotta, creating a balanced and surprising combination. The tart’s light, flaky crust holds it all together, providing the perfect base for the fresh, zesty filling. This dessert isn’t just unique—it’s a bold statement of flavor that works well as both a savory-sweet dish and a playful twist on traditional desserts.
This tart holds a personal meaning for me. I first made it for a spring dinner party, and it quickly became the star of the show. The bright, green herbs in the ricotta offer an unexpected but delightful contrast to the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the delicate texture of the tart shell adds the right amount of crunch. The creamy, aromatic Green Goddess ricotta lifts the dish to a level of sophistication, making it feel like both a culinary and creative triumph.
Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta is perfect for those who want something refreshing and light but still indulgent. It’s a fantastic choice for special occasions, and it can also be served as a savory snack at any gathering. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a brunch or a sweet ending to a meal, this tart will definitely impress anyone lucky enough to taste it!
Perfect for:
- Spring and summer gatherings
- Brunches or light lunches
- Vegetarians and herb lovers
- Special occasions
- A unique take on a classic tart
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta will become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Burst of Flavor: The sweet carrots and fresh herbs bring a unique and vibrant twist to a traditional tart.
- Visually Stunning: The beautiful golden hue of the carrots against the creamy ricotta makes this tart as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Light Yet Satisfying: The creamy ricotta and fresh ingredients make this tart rich in flavor but light enough to enjoy without feeling too heavy.
- Customizable: Add different herbs or vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
- Perfect for Entertaining: This tart is not only delicious but also a showstopper that will steal the spotlight at any event.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
To make your Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the ricotta mixture)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Puff Pastry: The base of this tart offers a buttery, flaky texture that complements the rich, creamy filling.
- Carrots: The star of the tart, adding natural sweetness and color. Roasting the carrots enhances their flavor and soft texture.
- Green Goddess Ricotta: A vibrant ricotta filling made with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and a touch of cream cheese to create a creamy, herby flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, and chives are the key ingredients that elevate the ricotta filling to “green goddess” status, bringing a refreshing, aromatic taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta:
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll Out the Pastry: Place the puff pastry sheet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently roll out the dough to smooth any creases.
- Score the Edges: Lightly score a border around the edges of the pastry, about 1 inch from the edge, to create a frame for the filling. This will help the edges puff up during baking.
Roast the Carrots:
- Toss the Carrots: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the Carrots: Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Green Goddess Ricotta:
- Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, cream cheese, lemon juice, parsley, basil, chives, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Assemble the Tart:
- Spread the Ricotta Filling: Spread the green goddess ricotta mixture evenly across the puff pastry inside the scored border.
- Top with Roasted Carrots: Arrange the roasted carrots on top of the ricotta filling, slightly overlapping.
- Bake the Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed, and the ricotta is set.
Garnish and Serve:
- Drizzle with Honey (Optional): After baking, drizzle a bit of honey over the tart for a touch of sweetness, if desired.
- Garnish with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm or at room temperature as a beautiful appetizer or main dish.
How to Serve
Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta can be served in several creative ways:
- Brunch or Lunch: This tart is perfect as a light main dish for brunch or lunch, served alongside a fresh salad.
- Appetizer: Serve it as an elegant starter to any meal, cutting it into small squares or slices.
- With a Side Salad: Pair it with a refreshing, crisp salad to balance the rich, creamy filling.
- As Part of a Grazing Board: Add this tart to a grazing table with other savory nibbles for a fantastic spread.
Additional Tips
- Use Seasonal Carrots: For the freshest flavor, use in-season carrots, which are typically sweeter and more vibrant.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the ricotta filling and roast the carrots ahead of time to save time on the day of serving.
- Puff Pastry Substitute: If puff pastry isn’t available, you can use a shortcrust pastry for a more dense base.
- Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have all the herbs listed, feel free to swap in herbs like dill, mint, or tarragon to give the ricotta mixture your own twist.
Recipe Variations
- Carrot and Zucchini Tart: Add some thinly sliced zucchini along with the carrots for a delicious vegetable medley.
- Spicy Green Goddess Ricotta: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a small chopped jalapeño to the ricotta filling for a bit of heat.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the ricotta and cream cheese with vegan ricotta and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly tart.
- Add Nuts: For extra texture, top with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts.
- Cheese Addition: Add some crumbled goat cheese or feta on top of the ricotta for a tangy contrast.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: This tart can be frozen either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the tart and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Special Equipment
- Parchment Paper: Useful for lining the baking sheet and preventing the tart from sticking.
- Rolling Pin: To gently roll out the puff pastry to an even thickness.
- Baking Sheet: Essential for both roasting the carrots and baking the tart.
- Sharp Knife: For thinly slicing the carrots and cutting the tart into neat portions.
- Whisk or Spoon: To mix the ricotta filling until smooth.
FAQ Section
- Can I use pre-roasted carrots?
Yes, you can use pre-roasted carrots or even roasted carrot leftovers to save time. - Can I use store-bought ricotta?
Yes, store-bought ricotta works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure to drain it well before using. - Can I make this tart gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version of this tart. - How can I make the tart crust more flavorful?
Add a pinch of salt, garlic powder, or fresh herbs to the puff pastry before baking for extra flavor. - What other vegetables can I use?
You can add vegetables like roasted bell peppers, leeks, or even spinach to the tart for more variety. - Can I serve this tart cold?
Yes, this tart can be served at room temperature or cold, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks. - How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Make sure the ricotta filling is spread evenly, and bake the tart long enough to allow the crust to become golden and crisp.
Conclusion
Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta is an absolute game-changer for any meal, bringing together vibrant, fresh flavors with a rich, creamy texture that makes every bite a celebration. The sweet, earthy carrots perfectly complement the herbaceous, tangy green goddess ricotta, creating a delightful contrast that dances on the palate.
What truly elevates this dish is its balance of healthful ingredients and indulgent flavors, making it versatile enough for brunch, a light dinner, or a stunning addition to any gathering. The flaky, buttery tart crust provides the perfect base, supporting the bright flavors above while maintaining its crisp texture.
Ideal for both casual meals and special occasions, Carrot Tart with Green Goddess Ricotta will quickly become a go-to recipe in your culinary rotation. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this delightful creation! Don’t forget to share your version and tag me—I love seeing your take on it! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
