Description
These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful French-inspired appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, shallots, fresh herbs, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or as an elegant starter, these tarts combine rich, earthy flavors with a crispy golden crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms (cremini or mixed), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces herbed goat cheese, softened
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry slightly and cut into 4 equal rectangles. Score a ½-inch border around each rectangle without cutting all the way through, then prick the centers of each rectangle with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter together. Add the thinly sliced shallots and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until they turn golden and most moisture has evaporated. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute before removing from heat.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread a layer of softened herbed goat cheese evenly inside the scored border of each puff pastry rectangle. Evenly distribute the mushroom and shallot mixture on top of the goat cheese layer. Use the beaten egg to brush the edges of each pastry to help achieve a golden, shiny crust.
- Bake: Place the tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed, golden, and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature as an elegant appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- These tarts make a great appetizer, brunch dish, or light lunch option.
- You can substitute plain goat cheese and add your own favorite herbs if preferred.
- Ricotta or cream cheese can be used instead of goat cheese for a milder taste.
- Ensure the mushrooms are cooked until most of their liquid evaporates to avoid soggy pastry.
- Serve the tarts warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
