The Foundation: A Flaky, Golden Crust

One of the key components of any tart is its crust, and this recipe calls for a refrigerated pizza dough that can easily be found in any grocery store. While homemade pastry dough can be used for a more refined texture, using pizza dough in this case is not only convenient but also provides a chewy and buttery texture that complements the creamy filling. The dough is rolled out and pressed into a tart pan, where it bakes to a perfect golden-brown crispness. The result is a hearty base that contrasts beautifully with the light, airy filling.

The tart dough forms the foundation for the rich and savory ingredients, holding them together and allowing the flavors to meld. With a crust that’s both tender and firm, it serves as a satisfying base that makes each bite of the tart as delightful as the filling itself. The use of refrigerated dough also cuts down on preparation time, making this dish more accessible for busy home cooks who want a delicious homemade meal without the time commitment of creating a dough from scratch.

The Creamy Filling: Ricotta Cheese as the Star

At the heart of this tart is the ricotta cheese filling—smooth, creamy, and wonderfully mild. Ricotta serves as the perfect base for the tart, providing a rich, velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy crust. When mixed with heavy cream and egg, the ricotta transforms into a luxurious, custard-like filling that melts in your mouth. The mild flavor of ricotta allows the other ingredients—such as ham, scallions, and fresh herbs—to shine through, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful base.

The addition of heavy cream further enhances the richness of the filling, ensuring it has a smooth consistency that holds together while still being light and airy. It also helps to keep the filling moist, preventing it from becoming dry after baking. The egg helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring the tart sets into a beautiful slice that holds its shape when served.

Savory Additions: Ham, Scallions, and Fresh Herbs

While the ricotta filling provides a rich and creamy base, it’s the ham, scallions, and fresh herbs that give this tart its distinctive savory depth and vibrant flavor profile.

• Ham: The ham brings a salty, savory element to the tart, complementing the mildness of the ricotta. By using deli-sliced ham, cut into small pieces, the texture becomes tender and integrates beautifully with the creamy filling. The flavor of the ham also works in harmony with the sweetness of the scallions, creating a well-rounded, satisfying dish.

• Scallions: Scallions (or green onions) add a fresh, slightly sharp bite that balances out the richness of the cheese and ham. They are used in two ways in this recipe—first, minced into the ricotta filling, and second, sautéed until tender to top the tart. The contrast between the raw and cooked scallions gives the tart a layered flavor, elevating the overall dish.

• Fresh Herbs: A combination of parsley and dill (or tarragon) adds a refreshing, aromatic quality to the tart. The herbs provide a vibrant pop of color and flavor, offering a contrast to the savory richness of the ham and the creamy texture of the ricotta. Parsley brings a bright, grassy note, while dill (or tarragon, if you prefer) adds a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors perfectly. The fresh herbs are not only a flavorful addition but also contribute to the overall visual appeal of the tart.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

The Ricotta, Ham, and Scallion Tart is an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different settings:

• Brunch or Lunch: This tart is perfect for a laid-back brunch or lunch. Its savory filling is hearty enough to serve as the centerpiece of a meal while still being light and fresh. Pair it with a simple green salad or a side of fruit to round out the meal.

• Light Dinner: For a simple yet satisfying dinner, serve this tart with a light side dish like roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or even a bowl of soup. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a flavorful meal without feeling overly full.

• Holiday or Special Occasion: This tart is also great for special occasions such as Easter, Mother’s Day, or dinner parties. It’s easy to make in advance and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal dish for a buffet or potluck-style gathering.

• Meal Prep: This tart is also excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors only improve as it sits, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal on busy days with minimal effort.

A Dish for All Ages

One of the best things about the Ricotta, Ham, and Scallion Tart is its appeal to all ages. The mild flavor of the ricotta and the savory elements of the ham and scallions make it a hit with both adults and children. Its soft, comforting texture and the blend of familiar flavors make it an approachable dish for even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a family or serving guests, this tart is sure to please everyone at the table.

A Make-Ahead Delight

The beauty of this tart lies in its convenience. It can easily be made ahead of time, saving you valuable prep time during busy mealtimes. Once assembled, the tart can be stored in the refrigerator and baked just before serving. Alternatively, you can bake it fully, then let it cool and store it for later. It makes for a great make-ahead option for a busy week or a gathering where you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.

Conclusion: A Savory and Flavorful Delight

The Ricotta, Ham, and Scallion Tart is a savory, delicious, and satisfying dish that is perfect for a variety of occasions. Its combination of creamy ricotta, tender ham, and fresh scallions is complemented by the aromatic herbs and buttery crust, creating a truly mouthwatering meal. Whether enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this tart is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s easy to make, versatile, and guaranteed to impress your guests or satisfy your family. With the option to make it ahead of time and serve it at your convenience, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion.