This savory tart combines the sweetness of pumpkin and caramelized onions with the creamy richness of ricotta, the smoky saltiness of bacon, and the earthy aroma of sage. It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for a fall brunch, a light lunch, or as an appetizer for a special occasion. The flaky puff pastry provides a wonderful textural contrast to the smooth filling, making each bite a symphony of flavors and sensations. This tart is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a centerpiece-worthy addition to your table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several compelling reasons:
- Flavor Harmony: The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky elements creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile. The pumpkin provides a subtle sweetness, the caramelized onions contribute a deep, rich sweetness, the ricotta adds creamy tanginess, the bacon delivers salty smokiness, and the sage provides an earthy aroma. This harmonious blend of flavors makes each bite an adventure for your palate.
- Textural Delight: The flaky puff pastry provides a crisp and airy base that contrasts beautifully with the smooth and creamy filling. The caramelized onions add a slight chewiness, while the crispy bacon provides a delightful crunch. This interplay of textures elevates the overall eating experience.
- Versatility: This tart is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at various times of the day and for different occasions. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch, a light lunch, a sophisticated appetizer, or even a vegetarian-friendly main course (simply omit the bacon). It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it convenient for entertaining.
- Seasonal Appeal: The use of pumpkin and sage makes this tart particularly well-suited for the fall season. The warm, comforting flavors evoke feelings of coziness and nostalgia. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn.
- Impressive Presentation: This tart is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The golden-brown puff pastry, the vibrant colors of the filling, and the artful arrangement of sage leaves make it a show-stopping dish that will impress your guests.
- Easy to Customize: This recipe is easily adaptable to your personal preferences. You can add other vegetables, such as roasted butternut squash or spinach, to the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or Parmesan. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The caramelized onions and bacon can be prepared ahead of time, making this tart a convenient option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining. You can also assemble the tart a few hours in advance and bake it just before serving.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions. In a skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook slowly for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience; allow them to cook slowly and evenly until they are a deep golden brown color and have a sweet, concentrated flavor. Avoid browning the butter. Add a pinch of salt to help draw out the moisture and speed up the caramelization process. If the onions start to stick, add a tablespoon of water to deglaze the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon. In another skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Set aside. Crumble the bacon into smaller pieces once cooled.
Step 4: Prepare the Puff Pastry. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry to fit your baking sheet. You want to create a thin, even layer without tearing the pastry. Carefully transfer the rolled pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Alternatively, use pre-rolled puff pastry sheets if available.
Step 5: Mix the Pumpkin and Ricotta. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and ricotta cheese. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth. Mix until well combined. For a smoother filling, use a hand mixer or food processor.
Step 6: Assemble the Tart. Spread the pumpkin and ricotta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Distribute the caramelized onions and crispy bacon evenly over the pumpkin and ricotta layer.
Step 7: Add the Sage. Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in a small bowl. Brush the melted butter over the fresh sage leaves to infuse them with flavor and prevent them from burning in the oven. Arrange the sage leaves on top of the tart, spacing them evenly for visual appeal.
Step 8: Create the Crust. Fold the edges of the puff pastry inward to create a rustic border. This will help to contain the filling and create a visually appealing crust. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to promote browning and create a glossy finish.
Step 9: Bake the Tart. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The filling should be set and slightly bubbly. Check the tart periodically during baking to ensure that the pastry is not burning.
Step 10: Cool and Serve. Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet before slicing and serving. Garnish with extra fresh sage leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Medium
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Pairs well with a side salad, such as mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Serve as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a brunch dish.
- Accompany with a glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Top with a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream for extra richness.
Tips:
- For best results, use high-quality puff pastry.
- Do not overcook the caramelized onions; they should be soft and sweet, not burnt.
- Drain the bacon thoroughly to remove excess grease.
- Use fresh sage leaves for the best flavor.
- If the puff pastry starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
- Let the tart cool slightly before slicing to prevent the filling from running.
Prep Time:
25 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Estimates will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Calories:
Approximately 350-450 per serving
Protein:
Approximately 10-15 grams per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 300-400 mg per serving
Conclusion
This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Bacon and Sage is a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its harmonious blend of flavors, delightful textural contrasts, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy fall brunch or a sophisticated appetizer, this tart is a winner! Enjoy the symphony of flavors and the warmth of autumn with every delightful bite. Experiment with different variations and make this recipe your own!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this tart ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can definitely make components of this tart ahead of time! The caramelized onions and bacon can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the entire tart a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, for the best results, bake the tart just before serving to ensure that the puff pastry is crisp and flaky.
Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While ricotta cheese provides a lovely creamy texture and mild flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses to customize the tart to your liking. Goat cheese would add a tangy and slightly pungent flavor, while crumbled feta cheese would bring a salty and briny note. You could even try using a combination of cheeses, such as ricotta and Parmesan, for a more complex flavor profile.
Q3: I’m vegetarian. Can I make this tart without bacon?
A: Of course! To make this tart vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can replace it with other savory ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. These additions will provide a similar depth of flavor and textural contrast to the bacon.
Q4: How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy, there are a few key techniques to follow. First, make sure that the pumpkin and ricotta mixture is not too wet. Drain any excess moisture from the ricotta before mixing it with the pumpkin puree. Second, pre-bake the puff pastry for a few minutes before adding the filling. This will help to create a barrier that prevents the filling from soaking into the pastry. Finally, bake the tart on a preheated baking sheet to ensure that the bottom crust cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
Q5: Can I freeze this tart?
A: While it’s not ideal to freeze the entire baked tart (as the puff pastry may lose some of its crispness), you can freeze the unbaked tart for up to 1 month. To do so, assemble the tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw the tart overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze the caramelized onions and bacon separately and use them as needed.
