Ricotta Tart with Rainbow Carrots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually stunning with colorful rainbow carrots.
• Creamy, savory ricotta filling with a hint of herbs.
• Perfect balance of flaky crust, sweet carrots, and creamy cheese.
• Great for entertaining or a weekend brunch.
• Can be served warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pre-made puff pastry or pie crust (thawed if frozen)
• Ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
• Egg (for binding the filling)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Lemon zest
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (chopped)
• Salt and black pepper
• Rainbow carrots (peeled and sliced lengthwise)
• Olive oil
• Honey (optional, for glazing)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the carrots. Toss the sliced rainbow carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of honey if using. Roast for 12–15 minutes until just tender. Set aside.
3. Prepare the pastry. Roll out the puff pastry or pie crust on a floured surface and place it into a tart pan (or on a baking sheet for a rustic look). Prick the base with a fork.
4. Make the ricotta filling. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Assemble the tart. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pastry base, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the roasted rainbow carrots on top in a decorative pattern.
6. Bake. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
7. Finish and serve. Let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Goat cheese twist: Replace half of the ricotta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Add greens: Layer sautéed spinach or kale under the ricotta mixture.
• Sweet-savory version: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few caramelized onions for depth.
• Mini tarts: Make individual portions using smaller tart shells or puff pastry squares.
• Vegan option: Use dairy-free ricotta and a vegan pastry crust.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crust’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular carrots instead of rainbow carrots?

Yes, any variety of carrots will work—rainbow carrots just add beautiful color and visual appeal.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, bake the tart a few hours in advance and reheat before serving, or serve it at room temperature.

What can I use instead of puff pastry?

A homemade pie crust, shortcrust pastry, or even phyllo dough layers can work as alternatives.

Can I freeze this tart?

You can freeze the baked tart for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen until warmed through.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the ricotta filling to help it stay crisp.

Is this tart sweet or savory?

It’s a savory tart with subtle sweetness from the roasted carrots and optional honey glaze.

What herbs pair well with ricotta?

Thyme, rosemary, basil, and chives all complement the creamy ricotta beautifully.

Can I use low-fat ricotta?

Yes, but the tart will be less creamy. Whole milk ricotta gives the best texture and flavor.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pastry crust or gluten-free puff pastry.

What should I serve with this tart?

Pair it with a light green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Ricotta Tart with Rainbow Carrots is a delightful combination of flavor, texture, and color that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its buttery crust, creamy ricotta filling, and sweet roasted carrots, it’s perfect for any occasion—from brunch gatherings to elegant dinners. This simple yet sophisticated tart will impress both your eyes and your taste buds every time.

Ricotta Tart with Rainbow Carrots

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Ricotta Tart with Rainbow Carrots is an elegant and savory tart featuring creamy ricotta cheese, roasted rainbow carrots, and fragrant herbs baked in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or light dinner, this colorful dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Main Dish, Brunch
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 sheet pre-made puff pastry or pie crust (thawed if frozen)
• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (whole milk)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (chopped)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 6–8 rainbow carrots (peeled and sliced lengthwise)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for glazing)
• Extra fresh herbs and olive oil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the sliced rainbow carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey if using. Roast for 12–15 minutes until just tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Roll out the puff pastry or pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Place it into a tart pan or on a baking sheet for a rustic style. Prick the base with a fork.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pastry base, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
6. Arrange the roasted rainbow carrots on top of the ricotta filling in a decorative pattern.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
8. Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Notes

• Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes if you prefer a crisper base.
• Whole milk ricotta provides the best creamy texture.
• Can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to retain crispness.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 55mg