Pumpkin, Ricotta and Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Savory meets sweet in this Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage. This delightful dish is perfect for brunch, appetizers, or a cozy dinner. With its flaky pastry and rich flavors, it stands out as a seasonal centerpiece that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy ricotta, rich pumpkin, and smoky Turkey Bacon, all elevated by caramelized onions and fresh sage.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from casual brunches to elegant dinners, this tart is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe makes cooking enjoyable and stress-free.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden crust and vibrant filling create an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and efficient, gather the essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking Turkey Bacon and caramelizing onions evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ricotta and pumpkin purée smoothly.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the puff pastry easily to the desired thickness for a flaky crust.

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Ingredients

For the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage, you will need:

For the Tart Filling

• 6 slices Turkey Bacon, chopped
• 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced
• Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup apple cider
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1⅓ cups pumpkin purée
• 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• 2 handfuls fresh sage leaves

For the Pastry

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 2 large eggs + 2 tsp water (for egg wash)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

How to Make Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Step 1: Cook Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped Turkey Bacon until crisp. Remove it from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

In the same skillet with some of the rendered Turkey Bacon fat:
* Add thinly sliced sweet onions along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
* Cook over medium-low heat for about 25–30 minutes until they are deeply golden and soft.
* Pour in apple cider and cook for an additional 5 minutes to enhance sweetness.

Step 3: Prep Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Roll out each sheet of frozen puff pastry slightly on a floured surface.
* Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
* Score a 1-inch border around the edges of each pastry sheet using a knife and prick the center with a fork.

Step 4: Make Filling

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine ricotta cheese with pumpkin purée. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
* Spread this mixture evenly inside the scored borders of each pastry sheet.

Top with:
– Caramelized onions,
– Freshly grated mozzarella,
– Crumbled Turkey Bacon.

Step 5: Add Sage & Bake

Scatter fresh sage leaves over the top of each tart. Brush the edges of the pastries with an egg wash made from whisking together eggs and water.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Step 6: Finish

Once baked, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the tarts before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

This Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether it’s for brunch, lunch, or dinner, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

For a Cozy Brunch

• Pair with fresh fruit: Slices of seasonal fruits like pears or apples add a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a light salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the tart’s richness.

As an Elegant Appetizer

• Cut into small squares: Serve the tart in bite-sized pieces for easy serving at gatherings.
• Add a dollop of crème fraîche: This adds a creamy touch that balances the savory flavors.

With a Hearty Dinner

• Accompany with roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots can bring extra color and nutrition to your plate.
• Pair with a warm soup: A bowl of butternut squash soup enhances the fall flavors beautifully.

For Leftover Lunches

• Pack it as part of a lunch box: The tart holds up well in the fridge and makes for an easy on-the-go meal.
• Reheat in the oven: Crisp it back up for lunch the next day by reheating it slightly before serving.

How to Perfect Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

Creating the perfect pumpkin tart takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose quality ingredients: Fresh ricotta and seasonal pumpkin make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Cook onions slowly: Patience is key when caramelizing onions; low heat will draw out their natural sweetness.
• Don’t rush the pastry: Allow the puff pastry to thaw completely before using for best results; this ensures flakiness.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage adds depth; consider adding other herbs like thyme for additional flavor dimensions.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

To create a complete meal alongside your tart, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes provides freshness.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roast beautifully together for added sweetness.
3. Butternut Squash Soup: Creamy soup enhances fall flavors and complements the tart perfectly.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: These provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft tart.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and bright color to your plate.
6. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa infused with herbs offers a healthy grain option full of protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes that can impact your tart’s quality.

• Skipping the caramelization: Not allowing enough time for the onions to caramelize can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to cook them slowly for that deep golden color.
• Overcrowding the filling: Adding too much filling can cause the tart dough to become soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfectly balanced tart.
• Not using chilled pastry: Working with warm puff pastry can make it tough to handle and affect its rise. Ensure your pastry is cold before rolling it out.
• Ignoring egg wash: Skipping the egg wash on the edges results in a dull finish. Brush it generously for golden, flaky crust edges.
• Cutting into it too soon: Letting the tart rest after baking allows flavors to settle and makes slicing easier. Wait for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in individual slices for easy reheating.

Freezing Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

• Freeze whole or sliced portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet covered with a lid for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for Turkey Bacon?

You can use chicken turkey bacon or omit it altogether if you prefer a vegetarian option. The tart will still be delicious!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just roast or steam fresh pumpkin until tender, then mash it before adding to the filling.

How do I ensure my tart crust is flaky?

Keep your puff pastry cold and handle it minimally. Pricking the center also helps prevent sogginess while baking.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge unbaked. Bake just before serving for best results.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to mix in different cheeses like goat cheese or add other herbs such as thyme for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin, Ricotta & Caramelized Onion Tart with Turkey Bacon and Sage is not only a delightful combination of flavors but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main dish for any gathering. Customize it by experimenting with various vegetables or cheeses based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a wonderful culinary experience!