Description
These Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are elegant yet cozy savory pastries perfect for a comforting meal or appetizer. Featuring a buttery puff pastry base topped with a flavorful spread of goat cheese blended with fresh thyme, garlic, and olive oil, these tarts are finished with a sautéed mixture of mushrooms and shallots. Baked until golden and puffed, they offer an irresistible combination of creamy, earthy, and flaky textures ideal for cozy nights.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry and Cheese Mixture
- 9-10 oz Puff pastry dough
- 4 oz Goat cheese (log)
- 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 Tablespoon Chopped fresh thyme
Sautéed Vegetables
- 1 Tablespoon Unsalted butter
- 3 cups Mushrooms (white button or crimini), sliced
- 1 Shallot (thinly sliced)
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Pepper
Finishing
- 1 Egg (for egg wash)
- 1 Tablespoon Water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the tart.
- Prepare the goat cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped fresh thyme. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Sauté mushrooms and shallots: Heat unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and thinly sliced shallot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- Roll out the puff pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry dough into a rectangular shape roughly 10 inches by 15 inches. Score a 1-inch border around the edges to create a rim for the filling.
- Assemble the tart: Evenly spread the prepared goat cheese mixture within the scored border of the puff pastry, making sure to leave the rim clear.
- Brush the edges with egg wash: Whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Using a pastry brush, apply the egg wash to the edges of the puff pastry to help it brown and seal during baking.
- Add sautéed topping: Spread the sautéed mushrooms and shallots evenly on top of the goat cheese layer.
- Bake the tart: Place the assembled tart on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Allow the tart to cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use either white button or crimini mushrooms based on preference; crimini adds a deeper flavor.
- Fresh thyme is preferred for its bright, herbal notes, but dried thyme can be substituted in a smaller amount.
- Ensure the puff pastry remains cold while rolling out to maintain flakiness during baking.
- Egg wash is essential for a golden crust but can be omitted for a vegan alternative (though browning may be less vibrant).
- These tarts can be served as an appetizer, a light main course paired with a salad, or as part of a brunch spread.
