If you are looking for a dish that bursts with fresh spring flavors and looks stunning on the table, the Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need! This tart combines the tender, slightly crisp bite of asparagus with the tangy creaminess of herbed goat cheese and the irresistible flakiness of puff pastry. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that feels both elegant and delightfully simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want something special for dinner, this tart is bound to impress without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze because each one is essential yet straightforward, coming together to create a harmony of flavors and textures. From the buttery puff pastry to the zesty lemon and the savory pecorino, every item plays a crucial role in making this tart shine.
- Frozen puff pastry (2 sheets): Provides the flaky and golden crust that forms the delicious base.
- Eggs (2, room temperature): Used to enrich the goat cheese mixture and to create an egg wash for that beautiful, shiny crust.
- Herbed goat cheese (8 ounces, room temperature): The creamy, tangy star of the filling that pairs perfectly with asparagus.
- Pecorino Romano cheese (1 ounce, grated): Adds a salty, nutty depth to the filling.
- Asparagus (1 pound, trimmed and peeled as needed): Fresh asparagus lends a lovely crisp texture and vibrant green color.
- Vegetable oil (1 teaspoon): Lightly coats the asparagus to help with roasting and flavor.
- Kosher salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and brightness.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Thaw the Puff Pastry
Start by placing a cookie sheet on the center rack of your oven and preheating it to 400˚F (or as directed on your puff pastry package). This ensures the baking surface is nice and hot, which helps the pastry puff up beautifully. Meanwhile, take your frozen puff pastry out and let it thaw at room temperature so it becomes pliable enough to unfold without cracking.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Zest your lemon and set the zest aside for a later finishing touch. In a medium bowl, beat one egg, then combine it with the herbed goat cheese, the freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. This creamy mixture is going to be the luscious layer under your asparagus and is packed with flavor that perfectly balances tanginess and savory notes.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart Shell
Once your puff pastry sheets are flexible enough (usually about 20 to 30 minutes), unfold them onto parchment paper. Overlap the ends by about an inch to create one long rectangle, roughly 17 inches by 9 inches, and press the seam to seal it well. Next, create a 1-inch border around the rectangle by brushing a mixture of the remaining egg and a teaspoon of water, then folding that edge inward and pressing firmly. This border acts as a frame that will hold your delicious filling and asparagus neatly in place. Don’t forget to brush the top of the folded rim with the egg wash so it bakes to a gorgeous golden shine.
Step 4: Arrange the Filling and Asparagus
Spread your creamy goat cheese mixture evenly inside the pastry border. Then toss the asparagus spears with a teaspoon of vegetable oil and a pinch of kosher salt to enhance their flavor and help them roast nicely. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on top of the cheese—this is your chance to get creative! You can line them up neatly or fan them out in a pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Flaky
Carefully transfer the tart (still on the parchment paper) onto the hot cookie sheet in the oven. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and flaky, and the asparagus is tender but still crisp. The aroma in your kitchen at this point will be absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle your reserved lemon zest over the asparagus to add a fresh citrusy lift. Cut the tart into triangles or squares and serve it immediately while warm, or allow it to cool slightly and serve at room temperature. Either way, it’s a delicious treat that’s sure to delight.
How to Serve Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest is the perfect finishing touch to highlight the tart’s bright flavor. For a little extra flair, consider scattering some finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving can add lovely richness as well.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with light, spring-inspired sides. Think along the lines of a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For heartier meals, a bowl of warm soup like chilled cucumber or roasted red pepper can be a perfect complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices of the Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe as elegant appetizers at your next gathering, or make a stunning centerpiece for brunch alongside mimosas and fruit salad. You can cut it into bite-sized squares for finger food or plate individual portions with a side salad for a charming main course. The options for presentation are as delightful as the tart itself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tart tastes great served cold or at room temperature, so you can enjoy it later without compromising flavor or texture.
Freezing
This tart doesn’t freeze well once baked because the asparagus can become watery and the puff pastry loses its crispness. For best results, freeze the puff pastry sheets before assembly if you want to prepare in advance, then bake fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat leftover tart, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350˚F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and the crust regains some crunch. Avoid microwaving to preserve the flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs in the goat cheese filling?
Absolutely! Adding chopped fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or chives to the goat cheese mixture can enhance the tart’s flavor and provide a lovely herbal aroma.
Is it necessary to peel asparagus for this tart?
It depends on the thickness of your asparagus stalks. Thin stalks usually don’t need peeling, but if your asparagus is thick and woody, peeling the lower parts will help achieve a tender bite.
Can I substitute the goat cheese with another cheese?
You can use cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor, but goat cheese offers a unique tangy richness that really defines this tart.
What if I don’t have Pecorino Romano cheese?
Parmesan cheese is a great substitute. It provides a similar salty, nutty taste that complements the filling perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly, making it a fantastic option for meat-free meals.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that feels both effortless and impressive, and the Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe is exactly that. Its fresh flavors, flaky texture, and vibrant colors make it an absolute joy to prepare and share. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved favorite for any occasion. Your kitchen and your guests will thank you!
PrintEasy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese Recipe
This Easy Asparagus Tart with Goat Cheese is a delicious and elegant dish perfect for brunch, snacks, or appetizers. Featuring flaky puff pastry, creamy herbed goat cheese, and fresh asparagus topped with a hint of lemon zest, this tart is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. Quick to prepare and bake, it’s an ideal vegetarian dish that balances richness and freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry
Eggs and Cheese
- 2 eggs, at room temperature
- 8 ounces herbed goat cheese, at room temperature
- 1 ounce (about 3/4 cup grated) Pecorino Romano cheese
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and peeled as needed
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and thaw the pastry: Place a cookie sheet on a rack in the center of the oven and heat to 400˚F (or follow puff pastry package instructions). Remove puff pastry from the freezer and let it stand at room temperature while preparing the filling.
- Make the filling: Zest the lemon into a small bowl and set aside the zest. In a medium bowl, beat 1 egg with the herbed goat cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice until combined.
- Create the tart shell: When the pastry is pliable (usually after 20 to 30 minutes), unfold both sheets on parchment paper and overlap the ends by 1 inch to form a long rectangle approximately 17 x 9 inches. Press the overlap to seal.
- Prepare the edges: Beat the remaining egg with 1 teaspoon water to make an egg wash. Brush a 1-inch rim around the edges of the pastry with the egg wash. Fold the edges inward to create a 1-inch border, pressing to seal and forming a frame. Apply more egg wash to seal overlapping corners and brush the top of the folded rim.
- Top the tart: Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly inside the pastry border. Toss the asparagus with vegetable oil and kosher salt, then arrange in a single layer on top of the cheese filling. Arrange the asparagus as desired for aesthetic appeal.
- Bake: Carefully remove the hot cookie sheet from the oven and transfer the tart (with parchment) onto it. Return the cookie sheet to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- Serve: Sprinkle the reserved lemon zest evenly over the baked asparagus. Cut the tart into triangles or squares and serve immediately, or allow it to cool on a rack and serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure to thaw the puff pastry until pliable but still cold for easier handling.
- Asparagus tips can be arranged decoratively for a more appealing presentation.
- This tart can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great make-ahead option.
- Substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan if desired.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a preheated cookie sheet as instructed.
