Roasted Tomato & Goat Cheese Flatbread with Pesto & Arugula

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Roasted Tomato & Goat Cheese Flatbread with Pesto & Arugula

Description

This flatbread combines sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and vibrant basil pesto on a crisp, golden flatbread. Finished with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. Ideal as a light meal, appetizer, or elegant lunch.

🛒 Ingredients

Flatbread Base

  • 2–3 flatbreads or naan (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Roasted Tomatoes

  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Toppings

  • ½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)

  • 4–6 oz goat cheese, crumbled

  • 1–2 cups fresh arugula

  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional but recommended)

  • Optional: red pepper flakes or cracked pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Roast the Tomatoes

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano.

    • Roast on a lined baking sheet for 15–20 minutes until blistered and caramelized.

  2. Prepare the Flatbreads

    • Place flatbreads on a baking sheet.

    • Lightly brush with olive oil.

    • Spread 2–3 tablespoons pesto evenly over each flatbread.

  3. Assemble

    • Scatter roasted tomatoes over pesto.

    • Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese evenly on top.

  4. Bake

    • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until flatbread is crisp and cheese is slightly softened.

  5. Finish

    • Remove from oven and immediately top with fresh arugula.

    • Drizzle with balsamic glaze.

    • Slice and serve warm.

🍽 Servings

  • Serves: 2–3 people as a main

  • Or: 6–8 slices as an appetizer

🧠 Chef’s Notes & Tips

  • Crispier crust: Pre-bake flatbreads for 3–4 minutes before adding toppings.

  • Extra flavor: Add roasted garlic or caramelized onions.

  • Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, prosciutto, or chickpeas.

  • Cheese swap: Feta or ricotta works well if goat cheese isn’t preferred.

  • Make it vegan: Use vegan pesto and plant-based cheese.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 380–420 kcal

  • Protein: 12–14 g

  • Carbohydrates: 38–42 g

  • Fat: 20–22 g

  • Fiber: 3–4 g

  • Sodium: Moderate (depends on pesto & cheese)

🌱 Health Benefits

  • Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, antioxidants, and vitamin C

  • Arugula: Supports digestion and bone health

  • Goat cheese: Easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese; good calcium source

  • Olive oil & pesto: Heart-healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the tomatoes and prep toppings in advance, but bake flatbread fresh for best texture.

Q: What flatbread works best?
A: Naan, lavash, pita, or homemade flatbread all work well.

Q: Can I grill this instead of baking?
A: Yes! Grill flatbread first, add toppings, then close grill lid for 5–7 minutes.

Q: Is this good served cold?
A: It’s best warm, but leftovers are delicious at room temperature.

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