Tomato Galette with Whipped Ricotta

Name: Tomato Galette with Whipped Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 2 cups assorted ripe tomatoes, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Tomato Galette with Whipped Ricotta because it’s a delightful blend of flaky pastry and fresh tomatoes, all topped with a creamy ricotta spread. Each bite feels like a warm hug on a cool day. The combination of savory and slightly tangy flavors is irresistible, and it’s impressively easy to make, perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. I'm always amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a stunning dish!

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:52:12.151Z

When I first tried making this galette, I was surprised at how easily the pastry came together. I learned that using cold butter is key to achieving that beautifully flaky crust. The addition of fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the presentation of the dish.

A little tip I discovered is to let the tomatoes drain after slicing. This helps to avoid a soggy bottom crust and allows the flavors to shine through even more. Each time I make it, the compliments never fail to come my way!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky, buttery crust that pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes
Creamy whipped ricotta adds a luxurious touch
Perfect dish for entertaining or a casual dinner night

      

Understanding the Galette Technique

The beauty of a galette lies in its rustic charm and simplicity. When making the pastry, it's crucial to handle the dough minimally to ensure a flaky texture; over-kneading can lead to a tough crust. Chilling the dough is equally important as it helps the butter solidify, resulting in a tender, flaky crust once baked. Keep an eye on your butter; if it becomes too warm while mixing, you may lose that desired flakiness.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch. This helps ensure that the crust cooks evenly and doesn't become soggy under the weight of the filling. Use a floured surface and a rolling pin to achieve a nice round shape. If the edges crack, simply pinch them back together—this rustic appearance adds to the galette's character! Remember that the crust will shrink slightly during baking, so make it slightly larger than the desired final size.

Choosing and Preparing Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are the star of this galette, so selecting the right varieties is essential. Look for ripe heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes for their rich flavor and firm texture. If using more watery varieties like beefsteak, be sure to drain the slices thoroughly; excess moisture can lead to a soggy galette. Allowing the tomatoes to rest in a colander with a sprinkle of salt not only helps draw out moisture but also enhances their flavor through slight curing.

You can experiment with different varieties of tomatoes to add color and taste dimensions. Cherry tomatoes, for example, can bring a sweet burst, while Roma tomatoes offer a meaty texture. If you want to mix flavors, consider adding a few slices of roasted tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for an additional layer of depth to your filling.

Perfecting the Whipped Ricotta

The whipped ricotta is an elegant complement to the galette. For the best texture, ensure your ricotta is well-drained before mixing. This prevents excess moisture that could make the spread too runny. Whipping the ricotta with heavy cream not only adds creaminess but also lightens it up, creating a luxurious texture that contrasts beautifully with the flaky crust. Using a hand mixer will yield a smoother consistency compared to mixing by hand.

If you want to enhance the flavors of the whipped ricotta further, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest or a dash of vanilla extract. These additions can infuse a subtle brightness and complexity that elevate the entire dish. You can also make the whipped ricotta ahead of time; it stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep before a gathering.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Tomato Galette with Whipped Ricotta:

For the Galette

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup cold water
2 cups assorted ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For the Whipped Ricotta

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon honey
Salt to taste

Make sure you have everything ready before you start assembling your galette!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Tomato Galette:

Make the Pastry

In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Add chilled butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water until the dough comes together. Form a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

While the dough chills, slice the tomatoes and place them in a colander to drain. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and chopped basil.

Prepare the Whipped Ricotta

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, heavy cream, honey, and salt. Use a hand mixer to whip until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Assemble the Galette

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch round. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the whipped ricotta in the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Arrange the drained tomatoes on top.

Bake

Fold the edges of the dough over the tomatoes, pleating it as you go to create a nice rustic look. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Serve

Let the galette cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with additional fresh basil on top.

Enjoy your delicious Tomato Galette with Whipped Ricotta!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavorful crust, you can add a teaspoon of dried herbs to the pastry dough. Additionally, feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables for the filling!

Serving Suggestions

This Tomato Galette pairs wonderfully with a light salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the ricotta beautifully. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of grilled vegetables, which enhances its fresh flavors. For a more casual vibe, slice the galette into wedges and serve it alongside dips like pesto or a balsamic reduction.

For a heartier version, add toppings such as olives, goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking. This not only diversifies the flavor profile but also offers a more gourmet touch, perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve the galette for an event, you can prepare the pastry dough and whip the ricotta the day before. Store the dough wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator, and the ricotta can be kept in an airtight container. On the day of serving, simply roll out the dough, prepare the filling, and assemble the galette just before baking for maximum freshness.

As for the tomatoes, you can slice them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, but be mindful of moisture; it’s best to season them just before assembling to avoid sogginess. This recipe holds up surprisingly well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers warmed gently in the oven for a quick snack or light meal.

Freezing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, this galette can be frozen, although it's best to do so before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it directly from frozen at a temperature of 400°F (200°C), increasing the baking time to about 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden and cooked through.

To reheat a baked galette, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the crust while warming the filling efficiently. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to a soggy crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the galette in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the galette and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time.

→ What tomatoes are best for this recipe?

Use a mix of heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor. Look for ripe and flavorful tomatoes.

→ Can I freeze the galette?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked galette, then bake it directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How can I make the whipped ricotta sweeter?

You can add more honey or a splash of vanilla extract to the whipped ricotta for a sweeter flavor.