The old saying goes, “it’s summertime and the cooking is easy”. Well, yes, that’s true, to an extent. It’s definitely true that our refrigerators and counters fairly overflow with the abundance of incredibly beautiful and absolutely delicious produce that is so much a part of this season. It’s also true that fresh fruit and vegetables usually need no embellishment to relish their incredible goodness. Sometimes, however, a little more dressing up is called for. This is when savoury tarts are a welcome addition to our summer entertaining repertoire. With the addition of golden crispy phyllo, buttery pastry or even an olive oil hued base, summer vegetables rise to newly found heights of awesome. These recipes were designed not to overwhelm the vegetable’s earthy flavour but rather to complement them and serve them in new and elegant ways. The tomato, herb and cheese galette is perfect both for an al fresco luncheon or a light patio dinner. It’s golden crust is the perfect invitation to tuck into the rich tomatoes and garlicky breadcrumbs that lay enclosed within. Likewise, the phyllo tart is replete with the sweet taste that comes from grilling fresh vegetables, enhanced in this dish by the addition of pesto and grated cheese. Finally, the pizza tartlets are a blank canvas – the toppings here are only one idea of many. Try grilling them instead of baking the dough and topping with a salad that comes from your own favourite combinations or your own sense of whimsy!!

Tomato, Herb and Cheese Galette

Roasted Vegetable and Pesto Tart

Pizza Tartlets with Onion Jam and Salad