This Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust is a delightful dish that shines at brunches, parties, or as a stylish snack. With its creamy texture and tangy flavors, it serves as a sophisticated centerpiece for any occasion. The unique combination of roasted tomato jam and a parmesan crust elevates this cheesecake, making it an unforgettable experience for your palate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The blend of ricotta and feta creates a smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
- Flavor Explosion: Roasted tomatoes bring a sweet yet savory taste that perfectly complements the cheesecake.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for brunch, as an appetizer, or even as a light dinner option.
- Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this dish accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your culinary adventure, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Blender or food processor
- Baking sheet
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Springform pan: Ideal for creating cheesecakes with delicate textures; it allows for easy removal without damaging the cake.
- Blender or food processor: Ensures a smooth filling by thoroughly combining ingredients, eliminating lumps.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for roasting the tomatoes evenly.
Ingredients
For the Parmesan-Almond Crust:
- 1 cup finely ground almonds
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- Pinch of black pepper
For the Savory Cheesecake Filling:
- 250g ricotta cheese
- 150g crumbled feta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- Zest of lemon
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Roasted Tomato Jam:
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh thyme leaves
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
How to Make Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
Step 1: Prep Pan & Crust
Preheat your oven to 340F (170C). Grease a 6-inch springform pan. In a bowl, combine the ground almonds, grated parmesan cheese, melted butter, and black pepper. Mix well until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the base and up the sides of the prepared pan.
Step 2: Bake Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before adding the filling.
Step 3: Make Filling
In a blender or food processor, combine ricotta cheese, crumbled feta cheese, eggs, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), grated garlic, lemon zest, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture evenly into the cooled crust.
Step 4: Bake Cheesecake
Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake at 340F for 30-35 minutes until just set in the center. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Step 5: Make Tomato Jam
While your cheesecake chills, prepare the roasted tomato jam. Toss halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in an oven preheated to 355F (180C) for about 30 minutes. Once done, mash gently with a fork to create a chunky jam.
Step 6: Assemble & Serve
Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Spoon cooled roasted tomato jam generously over the top of your cheesecake. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Slice into portions and serve immediately. Enjoy this delicious savory treat!
How to Serve Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
Serving your Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust can elevate any gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Elegant Brunch Option
- Pair slices of cheesecake with a light salad of mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Appetizer Platter
- Serve small wedges on a charcuterie board alongside olives, nuts, and seasonal fruits for a colorful appetizer spread.
Light Lunch Delight
- Accompany the cheesecake with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices for a satisfying yet light lunch option.
Fancy Cocktail Party
- Present the cheesecake on individual plates garnished with fresh thyme and a drizzle of olive oil as an elegant starter.
Family Gathering
- Slice into generous portions and serve with roasted vegetables on the side, creating a comforting family meal.
How to Perfect Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
Achieving the perfect Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cheeses and ripe tomatoes significantly enhance flavor. Opt for quality ingredients whenever possible.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cheesecake while baking. It should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center for a creamy texture.
Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan before refrigerating. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
Chill Well: For the best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the filling mixture before baking to ensure it has enough seasoning. A little extra black pepper or salt can make a big difference.
Best Side Dishes for Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
Complementing your Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:
Mixed Green Salad: A blend of arugula, spinach, and radicchio drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with creamy cheesecake.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and beets roasted until caramelized offer sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the cheesecake.
Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs adds protein and complements the richness of the cheesecake nicely.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices bring vibrant flavors to your plate.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm garlic-flavored breadsticks provide an irresistible dipper for any leftover tomato jam you might have.
Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with olive oil create an appealing bite-sized treat that enhances your meal’s theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust to perfection.
Ignoring the crust: Ensure you press the almond-parmesan mixture well into the pan. A weak crust can lead to a crumbly cheesecake.
Overbaking the cheesecake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking makes it dry. Aim for a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out.
Skipping the cooling process: Don’t rush to chill your cheesecake. Letting it cool completely prevents cracks and helps set the texture.
Neglecting seasoning: Taste your filling before baking. Adding enough salt and pepper will enhance flavors, making the dish more enjoyable.
Forgetting about garnishes: Fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil add visual appeal and fresh flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days.
Freezing Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust.
How do I make Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust gluten-free?
You can substitute finely ground gluten-free crackers or oats for the almond crust base, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I use different cheeses in this savory cheesecake?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for varied flavors and textures.
How long does Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 4 days, while freezing extends its life up to 2 months.
What can I serve with my Savory Cheesecake?
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a simple salad or crusty bread. The roasted tomato jam adds a delightful contrast.
Final Thoughts
The Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust is not only a stunning centerpiece but also offers endless customization options. You can adjust the cheeses or toppings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for brunch or as an elegant appetizer!
Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust
Indulge in the delightful Savory Cheesecake with Roasted Tomato Jam & Parmesan Crust, a creamy and tangy masterpiece that is perfect for any gathering. This unique dish combines a rich filling of ricotta and feta cheese with a crunchy almond-parmesan crust, topped with a sweet and savory roasted tomato jam. Ideal as an elegant appetizer, brunch centerpiece, or even a light dinner, this cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also simple to prepare. Impress your guests with this gourmet treat that balances flavors beautifully, making every bite unforgettable.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely ground almonds
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- Pinch of black pepper
- 250g ricotta cheese
- 150g crumbled feta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- Zest of lemon
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt, to taste
- Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 340°F (170°C) and grease a 6-inch springform pan.
- Combine ground almonds, parmesan cheese, melted butter, and black pepper in a bowl; press into the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until golden brown; let cool.
- Blend ricotta, feta, eggs, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon zest, and black pepper until smooth; pour into the cooled crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set in the center; cool and chill for at least 2 hours.
- For the roasted tomato jam, toss halved tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper; roast for about 30 minutes at 355°F (180°C) and mash slightly.
- Serve chilled cheesecake topped with roasted tomato jam and garnish with fresh thyme.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano into the filling. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free ground almonds or crackers for the crust.