Easy Mini Pesto Tomato Galettes: The Ultimate Savory Tart Recipe

These delightful mini Pesto Tomato Galettes are incredibly versatile and irresistibly addictive! This savoury tart recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch, a sophisticated appetizer, or even a charming entree for your next gathering. Embrace the rustic elegance of a galette and impress your guests (or yourself!) with these beautiful, flavorful tarts.

Delicious mini pesto tomato galette on a grey surface

The Allure of Seasonal Produce: Why Fresh Matters

There’s a special kind of excitement that comes with discovering vibrant, seasonal fruits and vegetables at the local market. For any home cook or baker, these fresh ingredients aren’t just staples; they are a source of endless inspiration. Cooking with produce that’s in season not only guarantees the best flavor and nutritional value but also connects you to the natural rhythms of the culinary world. Imagine biting into a juicy, sun-ripened tomato – it’s a completely different experience than one picked prematurely.

Living in Australia, we are incredibly fortunate to have access to an abundance of local, fresh produce year-round. On my last visit to the supermarket, I simply couldn’t resist a beautiful bunch of super colorful cherry tomatoes. And the best part? They were on special for a fantastic price! Finding these gems truly sparked the idea for these mini galettes.

While the various colors of cherry tomatoes certainly make these savory galettes visually stunning, their deliciousness doesn’t depend on a rainbow assortment. Feel free to use any type of cherry tomato available to you. Whether they’re bright red, golden yellow, or deep purple, the sweet and tangy notes of the tomatoes will shine through, perfectly complementing the rich pesto and flaky crust. The key is ripeness and freshness, which will elevate your galettes from good to extraordinary.

A Classic Flavor Combination: Tomato, Basil & Fresh Mozzarella

Sometimes, the simplest combinations are the most satisfying. While I enjoy experimenting with unique flavor pairings, for this recipe, I decided to stick with a timeless classic: tomato, basil, and fresh mozzarella. It’s a combination that evokes the sunny flavors of a Caprese salad, which I adore. If you’re a fan of Caprese and savory tarts, then you’re in for a real treat because this recipe brings the best of both worlds together!

The fresh basil plays a double role here, both blended into the vibrant pesto sauce and used as a fragrant fresh topping. To complete the Caprese-inspired profile, I simply added pieces of creamy fresh mozzarella on top of the mini galettes just after they emerged from the oven. The warmth of the freshly baked tart gently melts the mozzarella, creating a wonderfully gooey texture and a harmonious blend of flavors with the sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil.

Vibrant cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, ingredients for savory galettes

Mastering the Savory Galette: Rustic Elegance, Simple Steps

Making a galette might sound fancy, but it’s genuinely one of the easiest and most forgiving tart recipes you can try. Unlike traditional pies or tarts that require precise crimping and perfect edges, the beauty of a galette lies in its rustic, free-form nature. As I often say, the more imperfect it looks, the more charming it becomes! This is a recipe where you truly embrace the “rustic” aesthetic, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a relaxed baking project.

For these galettes, I’ve crafted a simple yet delightful savory shortbread pastry that forms the perfect base. This dough is designed to be light and deliciously flaky, providing a wonderful contrast to the fresh, juicy filling. The pastry relies on a generous amount of butter, which is crucial for achieving that desirable flaky texture. When working with the butter and flour, ensure your butter is at room temperature but still firm enough to handle. This will allow for easier incorporation and the formation of those essential small crumbs that lead to a tender crust.

To give this galette crust its savory character, I primarily used a pinch of salt. However, this is where you can truly let your culinary imagination run wild! The dough is a fantastic canvas for additional flavors. Consider incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an aromatic twist. Spices such as a touch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a hint of cayenne pepper could add an extra layer of complexity. I frequently use cumin seeds in my savory tart doughs, as seen in my Onion, Fig and Feta Tart, and it remains one of my absolute favorite ways to infuse a unique flavor into the crust. Experiment to discover your own signature galette pastry!

Rustic homemade cherry tomato and pesto savory galette

Crafting Your Own Basil Pesto: Freshness You Can Taste

For those who love to grow their own herbs, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as using fresh basil from your windowsill to make a vibrant homemade pesto sauce. After a few attempts at growing other herbs (and regrettably, killing a few!), I’ve found that basil truly thrives in my indoor garden. This consistent supply makes crafting fresh pesto a regular and delightful activity in my kitchen.

While store-bought pesto is convenient, I often find it to be excessively salty and sometimes lacking the bright, fresh flavor that homemade pesto delivers. Making your own allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your preference, resulting in a far superior taste. However, if time is short or fresh basil isn’t readily available, a good quality pre-made pesto can certainly be used for this recipe without compromising too much on flavor.

My recipe for pesto stays true to the classic Ligurian style, utilizing the foundational ingredients: fresh basil leaves, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, aromatic pine nuts, and savory Parmesan cheese. These components come together to create a rich, herbaceous, and incredibly flavorful sauce. But don’t feel limited to tradition! Pesto is wonderfully adaptable. You can experiment with different herbs – a touch of mint or parsley can add a refreshing note. Various nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews can replace pine nuts, each offering a distinct texture and flavor profile. You can even include other vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes or spinach, to create unique variations that perfectly complement these galettes.

Step-by-step guide showing preparation of tomato pesto galettes

Perfect for Any Occasion: Lunch, Appetizer, or Potluck Star

I am constantly on the lookout for new, simple, yet utterly delicious ways to make lunch exciting. These individual Cherry Tomato and Pesto Mini Galettes are an absolute game-changer. Their convenient individual portions make them incredibly easy to pack for work, reheat on the spot, and enjoy as a satisfying mid-day meal. Last week, I indulged in one every day for lunch, and I have zero regrets! Their size is just right for a light yet surprisingly filling lunch, ensuring you stay energized without feeling weighed down.

Beyond being a fantastic lunch option, these Cherry Tomato and Pesto Mini Galettes also excel as an elegant appetizer or a charming entree. Their beautiful appearance and delightful flavors make them ideal for entertaining. I’m already planning to serve them the next time friends come over for dinner. Imagine a platter of these golden, savory tarts alongside a fresh green salad or a light soup – a truly delightful culinary experience for any guest.

Tips for the Perfect Pesto Tomato Galettes

Achieving a perfect galette is easier than you think, especially when you keep a few key tips in mind. Here’s how to ensure your mini pesto tomato galettes turn out wonderfully flaky and flavorful every time:

Chill Your Dough Properly: Don’t skip the chilling step for the shortbread pastry. This allows the butter to firm up, preventing the dough from becoming too sticky and ensuring a wonderfully flaky crust.
Work with Cold Hands: When making the pastry, try to work quickly and with cold hands to avoid melting the butter. If your kitchen is warm, you can briefly chill your hands or even the mixing bowl.
Roll Thin, but Not Too Thin: Aim to roll your dough as thinly as possible without tearing it. A thin crust bakes up crisper and provides a better balance with the filling.
Avoid Overfilling: While tempting, overfilling the galettes can make them difficult to fold and may result in a soggy crust. Stick to the suggested amount of pesto and tomatoes.
Pat Dry Your Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can release a lot of moisture. After cutting them in half, gently pat them with a paper towel to remove excess water. This prevents your galette from becoming watery.
Don’t Forget the Egg Wash: Brushing the folded edges of the galette with an egg yolk wash (or a little milk/cream) before baking gives them that beautiful golden-brown color and a lovely sheen.
Pre-bake if Needed (Optional): If you are concerned about a soggy bottom, you can par-bake your pastry shells for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. However, with a good shortbread crust, it’s often not necessary.
Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: These galettes are delicious both warm from the oven and at room temperature, making them excellent for meal prep or picnics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pesto Tomato Galettes

Got questions about making these savory mini galettes? Here are answers to some common queries to help you on your baking journey:

Can I use store-bought pesto? Absolutely! While homemade pesto offers unparalleled freshness, a good quality store-bought pesto is a convenient alternative that will still yield delicious results. Just be mindful of the salt content in pre-made options.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes, the shortbread pastry dough can be made a day or two in advance. Store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling it out to make it more pliable.
How do I store leftover galettes? Leftover galettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 150°C/300°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust has re-crisped. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the crust soggy.
Can I freeze these galettes? Yes, you can freeze unbaked or baked galettes. For unbaked, assemble them, then flash freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time. For baked, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven.
What other vegetables can I use? These galettes are highly adaptable! Consider thinly sliced zucchini, bell peppers, spinach (sautéed to remove moisture), or even roasted mushrooms. Adjust the spices in the pesto or dough to complement your chosen vegetables.

Close-up of a freshly baked mini cherry tomato and pesto galette

Mini Pesto and Tomato Galettes Recipe: Your Culinary Journey Begins

Ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure? Below you’ll find the full recipe for these incredible Mini Cherry Tomato and Pesto Savory Galettes. Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of rustic, flavor-packed tarts that are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of crafting these beautiful savory treats!

Recipe

Mini Cherry Tomato and Pesto Savory Galettes

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Delicious savoury Galette with colourful Cherry Tomatoes and Homemade Basil Pesto

Servings:

4
Mini Galette

Author:

Sylvie

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Resting Time

30 minutes

Total Time

50 minutes

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Ingredients

Shortbread Pastry

1 1/2
cup (225gr)
Plain Flour
1/3
cup (50gr)
Semolina Flour
170
grams (6 oz)
Butter,
at room temperature
1
tbsp.
Cornstarch
1
pinch
Salt
1/4
cup (60 ml)
Water

Basil Pesto

1/2
cup
Fresh Basil Leaves
1/2
cup
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2
cup
Pine Nuts
1/2
cup
Grated Parmesan
1/2
teasp. each
Salt, Pepper, Cumin Powder, Garlic Powder

Galette Filling

400
grams (14 oz)
Cherry Tomatoes
Dozen
Fresh Basil Leaves
1/4
cup (50gr)
Fresh Mozzarella
1
Egg Yolk,
optional

Instructions

Shortbread Pastry

Cut the Butter at Room temperature in small cubes and place them on a deep plate. With a fork, mash them quickly to remove any hard bits.
Place the Flour, Semolina Flour, Cornstarch and Salt in a large bowl.
Add the Butter and work with your adds to create small crumbs. To do so, take a little bit of butter and flour and rub it in between your palms and fingers. After a few minutes, your dough should look like small crumbs.
Add a little bit of water and knead the dough into a ball. Start with only a little bit of water and add more if the dough is too hard. If it turns the dough to something really sticky, add a little bit more flour.
Cover with Cling Wrap and place in the fridge for at least 30 Minutes.

Basil Pesto

In the meantime, place all the ingredients for the Pesto in a blender and mix in small pulse to form the sauce. Set aside.

To Assemble the Mini Galettes

Preheat your oven on 160’C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Knead the Shortbread crust for a minute to re-heat it and cut in four.
Pour some flour on your kitchen bench and roll each dough into a small circle. Try to roll it as thin as possible without breaking.
Place the 4 galette crusts on your lined baking tray.
Brush some Pesto on the Galette crust.
Cut the Cherry Tomatoes in half and place them over the Pesto, leaving the edges free to fold over.
Fold the edges of the Shortcrust dough over the Cherry Tomatoes to create a Galette.
Optional: brush some beaten Egg Yolk over the Galette edges to create a nice coloration in the oven.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
When ready to serve, sprinkle some hand-torn Fresh Mozzarella and Chopped Basil Leaves.

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Nutrition (per serving)