Imagine a culinary masterpiece that combines the delicate crunch of fresh asparagus, the creamy richness of ricotta, and the buttery flakiness of golden puff pastry – all in one irresistible dish. This French-inspired asparagus tart is not just a recipe; it's a gastronomic journey that transforms simple ingredients into a stunning, restaurant-worthy meal that will impress your guests and elevate your home cooking game.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet, gently smoothing out any creases.
- Using a sharp knife, create a light border around the edge of the pastry, about 1 inch from the edge, without cutting completely through the pastry. This will create a raised border when baked.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the inner part of the pastry, leaving the border clear.
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears neatly on top of the cheese mixture, positioning them in a single layer or in an attractive pattern.
- Brush the exposed pastry border with the beaten egg to ensure a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Optionally, garnish with additional fresh lemon zest or chopped herbs before serving.
Tips
- Choose fresh, thin asparagus spears for the most tender and delicate texture.
- Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold for the best rise and flakiness.
- Create a neat border around the pastry to give your tart a professional, elegant look.
- Don't skip brushing the pastry edge with egg wash – it's the secret to that gorgeous golden shine.
- Let the tart rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil before serving.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest pastry and most vibrant asparagus flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
