25 Apr 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 25 min
Ingredients:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup feta cheese
1 cup scallions
1.50 lb asparagus
2 sheets puff pastry
2 tbsp milk (1% fat)
1 tbsp basil
1 tsp mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a Cheese and Asparagus Tart, a perfect blend of creamy cheeses, fresh asparagus, and aromatic herbs. This recipe brings together the rich texture of ricotta and feta cheeses, combined with the crispness of asparagus, all wrapped in a golden puff pastry. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a delectable appetizer, this tart is sure to impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Slightly fold over the edges to create a raised border. Use a fork to prick the base of the pastry to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, feta cheese, mustard, lemon juice, and milk. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped basil and sliced scallions.
4. Arrange the Asparagus:
- Trim the tough ends off the asparagus. If you're using particularly thick spears, you may want to slice them in half lengthwise.
- Toss the asparagus with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Assemble the Tart:
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the base of the puff pastry, inside the borders.
- Arrange the asparagus spears on top of the cheese mixture, either lining them up parallel or creating a decorative pattern.
6. Bake:
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
7. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed before use to make it easier to work with and to achieve a perfect rise.
- Trim the tough, woody ends of the asparagus before using to ensure a tender bite.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but if not available, dried basil can be a good substitute. Just remember to use half the amount if you're substituting dried herbs for fresh.
- When mixing the ricotta and feta cheeses, make sure they are smooth and well-combined for an even texture throughout the tart.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the tart neatly, helping to maintain its beautiful presentation.
Savor the exquisite combination of creamy cheeses and fresh asparagus in this delicious Cheese and Asparagus Tart. Easy to prepare and bake, this dish offers a gourmet experience with minimal effort. With its perfect blend of textures and flavors, it's sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Serve it warm, paired with a side salad or a glass of your favorite wine, and enjoy the delightful compliments from friends and family.