Courgette Tart | A Light, Savoury Bake for Summer Days

Introduction: A Simple and Elegant Seasonal Dish

Courgette tart is a deliciously light yet satisfying savoury bake, perfect for showcasing this versatile summer vegetable. With a flaky pastry base, a creamy cheese or ricotta filling, and thin slices of courgette arranged beautifully on top, this tart makes a fantastic centrepiece for summer lunches, garden picnics, or meat-free dinners. It’s easy to prepare, customisable, and looks as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love Courgette Tart

• Seasonal and Fresh – Ideal for making the most of homegrown or market courgettes
• Simple and Elegant – Great for entertaining or everyday meals
• Versatile – Works as a main, starter, or picnic dish
• Vegetarian-Friendly – Packed with flavour, no meat required

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 sheet of ready-rolled shortcrust or puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing, optional)

For the Filling:

• 250g ricotta cheese or cream cheese
• 1 egg
• 50g grated cheddar, feta, or Parmesan
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• 2–3 small courgettes, thinly sliced into rounds or ribbons
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh herbs: thyme, parsley, or basil (optional)

How to Make Courgette Tart – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Base

• Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
• Unroll the pastry and place it on a lined baking tray or tart tin.
• Lightly score a 1–2cm border around the edge if using puff pastry.
• Prick the base with a fork and chill while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

• In a bowl, mix the ricotta, egg, cheese, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
• Spread the mixture evenly over the pastry, avoiding the border.

Step 3: Add the Courgette

• Arrange the courgette slices or ribbons over the cheese filling in overlapping circles or lines.
• Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs if using.

Step 4: Bake

• Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg if desired for a golden finish.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden and the courgettes are just browned.
• Cool slightly before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm or at room temperature with a green salad
• Add new potatoes or couscous for a fuller meal
• Great for brunch, picnics, or light dinners
• Pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or elderflower cordial

Tips for the Perfect Courgette Tart

• Use small, firm courgettes for best flavour and texture
• Salt the slices lightly and let sit for 10 minutes to reduce moisture before baking
• Try a mandoline for even slicing
• Add depth with a spoon of pesto, mustard, or caramelised onion under the cheese mix

Flavour Variations

• Courgette & Goat’s Cheese Tart – Use soft goat’s cheese instead of ricotta
• Mediterranean Tart – Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted peppers
• Courgette & Tomato Tart – Layer thin tomato slices with courgette for extra colour and acidity
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free pastry sheet or crustless base

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Enjoy cold or reheat in the oven at 160°C for 10–15 minutes
• Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry crisp
• Can be frozen before baking – cook from frozen, adding extra time

Conclusion

Courgette tart is a beautifully simple dish that celebrates seasonal produce in a stylish and delicious way. With its flaky base, creamy filling, and golden courgette topping, it’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve. Whether for lunch, a light supper, or your next picnic, this tart is guaranteed to become a summer favourite.