Savory Ricotta Tartlets Olives Capers

Savory Ricotta Tartlets with Olives and Capers are the answer to last minute Mediterranean cravings perfect for a quick gathering or a special family night These mini tarts come together so easily and yet feel festive with a rich creamy filling of ricotta and a punch of briny flavor from olives and capers

I remember throwing these together for a picnic on a whim My friends could not get enough and now they always ask for these tartlets at every get together

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheet: Provides a flaky buttery base buy frozen all butter pastry for authentic results
• Ricotta: Lends creaminess and a mild tang look for a fresh tub with no added thickeners
• Chopped black olives: Offer a briny salty bite kalamata or oil cured work especially well
• Capers: Contribute pops of acidity and zesty contrast rinse them first to tone down the salt

Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Unfold the chilled puff pastry sheet onto a clean surface Press out any creases gently with your hands Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut six even circles Try not to tug or stretch the dough preserving its layers is key for flakiness

Prep the Baking Sheet:

Place the pastry rounds on a parchment lined baking sheet Arrange them at least one inch apart so the edges can puff up During testing I once crowded my tray and ended up with soggy sides so give them space

Assemble the Tartlets:

Spoon a generous tablespoon of ricotta into the center of each round Using the back of the spoon nudge the cheese just shy of the pastry edges Sprinkle the chopped olives evenly over the ricotta Add a few capers to each tartlet Distribute the toppings so every bite is balanced

Bake Until Golden:

Slide the tray into a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius Bake for fifteen minutes Check that the pastry is deeply golden at the edges and the ricotta looks set If needed rotate the tray halfway through for even browning

Garnish and Serve:

Let the tartlets cool a minute or two then finish with chopped fresh parsley or basil The fresh herbs lift all the savory flavors Serve these warm for the ultimate crisp and creamy contrast

Ricotta keeps these tartlets creamy without feeling heavy My favorite part is plucking juicy olives from the jar Each time I make these my daughter insists on sprinkling the capers herself It became our shared kitchen moment

Storage Tips

Cool any leftovers to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container Refrigerate up to two days Reheat in a toaster oven at a low temperature to revive the crispness The baked tartlets do not freeze well but the unbaked assembled rounds freeze for up to two months Prepare through the assembly stage freeze on a tray then store in a bag and bake straight from the freezer adding a couple extra minutes

Ingredient Substitutions

Ricotta can be swapped for whipped feta or goat cheese for a sharper flavor If you do not have black olives use green olives instead Capers bring essential zing but if you are out try a few chopped pickled peppers or even diced sundried tomato

Serving Suggestions

Set these tartlets on a platter with cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices for a vibrant spread For a filling lunch pair with a big leafy salad and a drizzle of olive oil These also add color and variety to a brunch table

Cultural and Seasonal Variations

Puff pastry and ricotta tarts are a classic in Italian antipasti In summer add a few halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of lemon zest Swap in thinly sliced zucchini or roasted peppers for spring and autumn versions Fresh herbs like dill or chives always work as a finishing touch

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer use roasted cherry tomatoes for a sweet bright note Add lemon zest when serving in spring Top with fresh arugula or baby spinach for extra color and crunch

Success Stories

Many readers have shared that these tartlets steal the show at baby showers and book clubs Once I made these for an outdoor movie night and they vanished before the opening credits My sister even made a double batch for her work potluck and brought home an empty tray

With these savory ricotta tartlets every bite tastes like you are celebrating the Mediterranean coast Whether for parties or cozy afternoons they always bring warmth and lively flavor to the table

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green olives instead of black?

Yes, green olives work well and offer a slightly sharper flavor profile. Adjust amounts to taste preferences.

→ How do I prevent soggy pastry bottoms?

Ensure oven is fully preheated and use a metal baking sheet for even heat, resulting in crisp pastry bases.

→ Are these tartlets best served warm or cold?

They are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, though they can be served at room temperature if preferred.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

You can assemble in advance and bake just before serving for freshest texture and flavor.

→ What herbs pair best as garnish?

Chopped parsley, basil, or chives add freshness and complement the Mediterranean flavors well.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate dietary needs while maintaining delicious results.