Provençal Tomato and Olive Tart with Herbed Goat Cheese

Ingredients

• 2 cups flour, sifted
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup ice water
• 1 pinch salt
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 pinch black pepper, freshly ground

Method

1. 01
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 02
   In a large bowl, combine sifted flour and salt. Add cubed butter and blend with fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 03
   Gradually add ice water, mixing with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
4. 04
   On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
5. 05
   Spread softened goat cheese evenly over the bottom of the tart crust.
6. 06
   Arrange sliced tomatoes and olives over the goat cheese. Sprinkle with chopped basil, thyme, and a pinch of black pepper.
7. 07
   Drizzle with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the tomatoes are tender.
8. 08
   Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.