The Heirloom Tomato & Herb Cream Cheese Tart is a vibrant, no-bake dish that showcases the beauty of summer produce. With a crisp herb-infused cracker crust and a whipped cream cheese filling, this tart is topped with a rainbow of juicy heirloom cherry tomatoes and finished with fresh basil. It’s light, elegant, and ideal for warm-weather entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tart is both visually stunning and refreshingly flavorful. It’s easy to assemble, requires no baking, and offers a delightful contrast of textures—from the crunchy crust to the creamy, herby filling and the burst of freshness from ripe tomatoes. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, serving a light lunch, or offering a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish stands out for its beauty and taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups whole grain crackers or crispbread, crushed
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, oregano, and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the crust mixture evenly into the base of a tart pan or springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
3. In another bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, grated garlic, chopped chives, dill, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and fluffy.
4. Spread the herb cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust using a spatula.
5. Arrange the halved heirloom cherry tomatoes in a colorful, decorative pattern on top.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle lightly with olive oil if desired.
7. Chill until ready to serve. Slice and serve cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 25 minutes, plus at least 20 minutes of chilling.

Variations

• Cheese base variation: Substitute goat cheese or ricotta for a tangier or lighter filling.
• Add-ins: Include thinly sliced cucumbers or radishes for additional crunch and color.
• Crust alternatives: Use crushed pretzels, savory shortbread, or toasted nuts in the crust for different flavor profiles.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based cream cheese and yogurt substitutes.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for gentle heat.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: This tart is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Do not reheat.
• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the crust and filling separately a day in advance. Assemble the tart just before serving for best presentation.

FAQs

Can I make this tart a day in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the entire tart a day in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

What kind of crackers work best for the crust?

Whole grain or multigrain crispbreads work well, but buttery crackers or savory biscuits can also be used.

Can I use large tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, but slice them thinly and remove excess moisture with paper towels before placing on the tart.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Chilling the crust helps it firm up. If the tomatoes are particularly juicy, pat them dry before topping.

Is this tart gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free crackers for the crust. All other components are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are recommended for optimal flavor and texture, but you may substitute with dried herbs at reduced quantities.

How long does the tart stay fresh?

It’s best consumed within 1–2 days. The crust may begin to soften after that due to moisture from the filling and tomatoes.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Yes, add thinly sliced smoked salmon or prosciutto for a more substantial tart.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A dry rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the fresh, herbal flavors.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

You may, but keep in mind that pre-flavored varieties may alter the balance of the dish. Plain cream cheese allows full control of flavor.

Conclusion

The Heirloom Tomato & Herb Cream Cheese Tart is a refreshing and colorful dish that captures the essence of summer. With its no-bake crust, creamy herb filling, and juicy tomato topping, this tart offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Whether for entertaining or enjoying a light meal, it’s a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to serve.

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