Mini Caprese Tarts Perfect for Any Occasion

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly simple with just a handful of ingredients.
• Perfect for entertaining—these tarts add a sophisticated touch to any gathering.
• Customizable! You can make them vegetarian or add your favorite toppings.
• A quick 30-minute recipe that tastes like something you’d find in a fine-dining restaurant.

### Ingredients Breakdown

• Puff Pastry Sheets: Store-bought puff pastry is a lifesaver. Thawed in the fridge overnight, it’s ready to roll—literally! If you want to make your own, go for it, but no judgment if you opt for the pre-made kind.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Slice it thin for that gooey, melty texture. If you’re dairy-free, a plant-based mozzarella works beautifully too.
• Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, these are great for even cooking. Slice them in half for the best presentation.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a pop of freshness and color. Dried basil can work in a pinch, but fresh is supreme here.
• Balsamic Glaze (optional): Drizzle it over the top for a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Olive Oil: For brushing the pastry and giving it that perfect golden-brown glow.
• Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning that really lets the ingredients shine.

### Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps, and before you know it, you’ll have a tray of golden, cheesy tarts that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the sheet into 3×3-inch squares—you should end up with 9-12 pieces depending on the size of your sheet.
3. Place the pastry squares onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Lightly score a ½-inch border around the edges of each square—this will help create a puffed crust.
4. Brush the edges with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Dock the center of each square with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much.
5. Add a slice of mozzarella to the center of each square, followed by a couple of halved cherry tomatoes. Season with a touch of salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and your kitchen smells like heaven.
7. Once out of the oven, immediately add a basil leaf to each tart and drizzle with balsamic glaze if you’re using it. Serve warm or at room temperature!

### Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Keep your puff pastry cold until you’re ready to work with it—this helps achieve that beautifully flaky texture.
• If you’re short on time, use pre-sliced mozzarella and pre-diced tomatoes to save a few minutes.
• Want to make these tarts ahead of time? Assemble them up to step 5, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Pop them in the oven just before your guests arrive!

### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Make It Vegan: Use a plant-based puff pastry (check the label for butter) and swap in your favorite dairy-free mozzarella.
• Add Protein: Top each tart with a thin slice of prosciutto before baking.
• Serving Ideas: These pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad for a light meal.

### FAQs

• Can I freeze these tarts? Yes! Freeze them after assembling but before baking. Bake straight from the freezer, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• How do I store leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Can I use different herbs? Absolutely! Thyme or oregano would work beautifully here as well.