Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to entertaining or simply enjoying a delicious homemade snack, these Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a standout choice. My family and I recently enjoyed these delightful tarts for a weekend gathering, and they were an instant hit! The buttery, flaky puff pastry serves as the perfect vessel for the earthy mushrooms, sweet shallots, and creamy herbed goat cheese. As the tarts baked in the oven, the aroma filled our home, enticing everyone to gather in the kitchen. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making these tarts a delicious addition to any meal or occasion.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• All-purpose flour (for dusting)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups mushrooms (any variety), finely chopped
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz herbed goat cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare Filling:

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with olive oil.
2. Sauté the shallots until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Prepare Puff Pastry:

1. On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to make it slightly thinner.
2. Cut the pastry into equal-sized squares or rectangles. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Assemble Tarts:

1. Spoon the mushroom-shallot mixture onto each puff pastry square.
2. Crumble the herbed goat cheese over the filling.

Fold and Brush:

1. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic tart shape.
2. Brush the exposed edges with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tarts are puffed and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. These savory tarts make an excellent appetizer, snack, or light meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 230
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 5g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Appetizer: Serve warm as a starter at gatherings.
• Snack: Enjoy them as a delightful afternoon snack.
• Light Meal: Pair with a salad for a light dinner.
• Garnish: Add fresh herbs or microgreens for an elevated presentation.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of balsamic reduction or aioli.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the tarts just before baking.
3. Variations: Add cooked bacon or ham for an extra savory kick.
4. Cheese Alternatives: Try feta or ricotta cheese if you prefer something different than goat cheese.
5. Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Keep the recipe as is for a meat-free option.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom mixture for some heat.
• Different Mushrooms: Experiment with a variety of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for varied flavors.
• Mini Tarts: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized tarts for parties.
• Sweet Variation: Substitute the filling with sweet fruits and cream cheese for a dessert version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tarts.
• Serve alongside a light soup, such as tomato or butternut squash, for a cozy meal.
• Complement with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink option.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked tarts. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Refrigeration: Store baked tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pastry?

• Yes, you can use shortcrust pastry or even phyllo dough, but the texture will be different.

1. What if I can’t find herbed goat cheese?

• You can use plain goat cheese and mix in your favorite herbs or seasoning.

1. How can I make these tarts gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free puff pastry or a gluten-free flour blend for the base.

1. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

• Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would be great additions.

1. What type of mushrooms should I use?

• Any variety works, but a mix of wild mushrooms adds great flavor and texture.

1. Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese?

• Yes, you can replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.

1. How do I store leftover tarts?

• Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I prepare the filling in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

1. What’s a good dipping sauce for these tarts?

• A balsamic glaze or garlic aioli complements the flavors beautifully.

1. Can I make mini tarts?
   • Yes, use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized versions of the tarts.

Conclusion

These Mushroom Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, sweet shallots, and creamy goat cheese enveloped in flaky pastry is sure to impress your family and guests alike. With their delightful flavors and elegant presentation, these tarts are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious tarts!

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