Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots

Introduction

These savory mushroom and goat cheese tarts are a perfect balance of rich and earthy flavors, ideal for any occasion. Featuring a combination of tender mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, and sweet, caramelized shallots, all nestled inside flaky puff pastry, these tarts are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer, a light main dish, or a side dish that steals the show, this recipe has you covered.

I first tried making these tarts for a family gathering, and they were an immediate hit. The savory mushrooms paired perfectly with the tangy goat cheese, and the sweetness of the shallots added a depth of flavor that brought everything together. My family, which isn’t always keen on mushrooms, was surprised by how much they enjoyed the combination. These tarts are easy to prepare, yet elegant enough for special occasions like dinner parties or holiday gatherings. They’re versatile too—whether served warm out of the oven or at room temperature, they remain flavorful and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love These Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts

What makes these tarts stand out? Several things, really! For one, the earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the creamy, tangy goat cheese are a match made in heaven. Add in the caramelized shallots for a touch of sweetness and the flaky puff pastry, and you’ve got a perfect bite every time.

• Flaky Puff Pastry: The puff pastry serves as a buttery and crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Earthy Mushrooms: The mushrooms provide a hearty depth of flavor, making these tarts feel substantial and satisfying.
• Sweet Caramelized Shallots: Shallots are sweet when cooked, and their mild, savory flavor complements the mushrooms and goat cheese.
• Quick and Easy: While they may look sophisticated, these tarts come together quickly and are easy to assemble.
• Versatile: Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish, or a savory appetizer, these tarts are perfect for any meal.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 medium shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300g (10 oz) mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster), sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable stock
• 4 oz (120g) goat cheese, softened

For the Pastry:

• 320g (11 oz) puff pastry sheet
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• Fresh thyme leaves or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced shallots and sauté them for 3–4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing it to become fragrant.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
   • Pour in the white wine or vegetable stock and allow the mixture to cook for another 2 minutes, letting the liquid reduce. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Unroll the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangles or circles, depending on your preference. Each piece should be around 4 to 5 inches in size.
   • Using a knife, score a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border around the edge of each pastry piece, being careful not to cut all the way through the dough. This will help create a crisp edge once baked.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   • Spread a thin layer of softened goat cheese onto the center of each pastry, staying within the scored border. The goat cheese adds creaminess and tang, making it the perfect base for the mushrooms.
   • Spoon the mushroom and shallot mixture evenly over the goat cheese, making sure each tart gets a generous portion of the filling.
   • Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash to give the tarts a beautiful golden finish when baked.
4. Bake the Tarts:
   • Place the tarts in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and puffed, and the filling is bubbling and slightly caramelized.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the tarts are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 tart
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes

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How to Serve
These savory mushroom and goat cheese tarts are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways:

• As an appetizer: Serve the tarts on a platter as a light starter to any meal.
• As a side dish: Pair these tarts with a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner.
• As a light main course: Serve two tarts with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple soup for a satisfying meal.
• For a party or gathering: These tarts make an elegant addition to any spread, and they can be served warm or at room temperature.

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Additional Tips

1. Use a variety of mushrooms: Mix different types of mushrooms, like shiitake, oyster, or cremini, to bring a variety of textures and flavors to the tarts.
2. Pre-bake the puff pastry: For an extra crispy base, you can partially bake the puff pastry for 5–10 minutes before adding the filling.
3. Substitute goat cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.
4. Make ahead: You can prepare the mushroom mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling the tarts.
5. Try different herbs: If you don’t have fresh thyme, feel free to experiment with rosemary, sage, or basil for a unique flavor profile.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make these tarts ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mushroom filling and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before assembling the tarts.
2. Can I freeze these tarts? Yes, you can freeze unbaked tarts. Assemble them, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen for an extra 10 minutes.
3. Can I substitute the mushrooms? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite mushrooms or a mix of vegetables for a different twist.
4. Can I use store-bought pastry? Yes, store-bought puff pastry works just as well for this recipe.
5. Is there a way to make this recipe vegan? You can use a dairy-free puff pastry and substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese to make the recipe vegan.
6. How do I store leftover tarts? Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore some of the crispiness.
7. How long will the tarts keep after baking? These tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to 2 days in the fridge.
8. Can I make the filling spicy? Yes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the mushroom mixture for a bit of heat.
9. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use feta, brie, or even cream cheese as alternatives to goat cheese.
10. Can I prepare these tarts as a larger tart? Yes, you can assemble the filling on a larger sheet of puff pastry, score the edges, and bake it as one large tart.

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Conclusion

These savory mushroom and goat cheese tarts with shallots are the perfect combination of earthy, creamy, and crispy. With their flaky pastry, savory filling, and elegant presentation, they make a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether served as a light main dish, a delicious appetizer, or as part of a buffet spread, these tarts are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try the next time you want to serve something that is both simple and sophisticated!

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