Hello, friends! With spring around the corner, it's the perfect time to embrace one of the season’s most delicious vegetables: asparagus. This asparagus tart recipe is a fantastic way to take advantage of the short asparagus season and turn it into a gorgeous, flavorful recipe. Whether you're looking for a savory brunch option, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this spring-inspired tart will be your go-to!
Why This Asparagus Tart is a Must-Try
Asparagus has a unique, tender texture and vibrant flavor that truly shines in this simple tart. Available as early as April in the Pacific Northwest, fresh asparagus comes in three colors: green, purple, and white (or yellow). My personal favorite is the thin, tender green asparagus, which cooks quickly and beautifully.
This asparagus tart is the perfect way to showcase this spring vegetable. The crispy, buttery puff pastry, paired with creamy whipped cream cheese, sharp Gruyère cheese, and fresh asparagus, creates a light, elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Asparagus Tips for Perfect Results
Before you start making your tart, here are some quick tips for working with asparagus:
- Cooking Tips: While thicker asparagus spears are great for grilling, the thinner spears are ideal for roasting—just like in this tart! They cook quickly and tenderize beautifully in the oven.
- How to Trim Asparagus: Bend the asparagus stalk gently. It will naturally snap where the tender part ends, leaving you with perfect pieces to cook.
Why Use a Puff Pastry for This Tart?
If you’ve never used puff pastry before, you're in for a treat! Frozen puff pastry is a kitchen shortcut I swear by—it's super convenient and makes the perfect base for tarts, quiches, and more. If you're feeling adventurous and want to make your own puff pastry, you're a hero! But for me, I keep a few boxes of frozen pastry in the freezer at all times for easy, delicious recipes like this one.
The beauty of this tart is how easy it is to make. The puff pastry requires a bit of prep and a quick pre-bake, but other than that, it’s a breeze. You can even opt for making one large tart instead of individual ones to save time.
What You’ll Need for Your Asparagus Tart
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (to prevent sticking)
- Pastry Brush (for the egg wash)
- Fresh Asparagus (thin stalks are ideal for this recipe)
- Olive Oil (for roasting asparagus)
- Puff Pastry
- 1 Egg (for an egg wash to give your pastry a golden, crispy finish)
- Whipped Cream Cheese (for a creamy base)
- Gruyère Cheese (or your preferred cheese—Parmesan is another great option)
- Minced Shallots
- Chives (for a fresh, mild onion flavor)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
How to Make This Easy Asparagus Tart
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. If you're using frozen puff pastry, let it thaw according to the package instructions.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry
Once thawed, roll out your puff pastry on a floured surface. You can make individual tarts or go for a larger family-style tart. Score the tart depending on your preference.
Step 3: Brush the edges with egg wash.
IStep 4: Pre-Bake the Pastry
For the best texture, pre-bake your puff pastry for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and slightly puffed. This helps create a crispy base that won’t get soggy when you add the toppings.
Step 5: Prepare the Asparagus
While your pastry is baking, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus and blanch until just tender but still vibrant in color.
Step 6: Mix whipped cream cheese, shallots, lemon zest, and Gruyère cheese.
Step 7: Assemble the Tart
Once your puff pastry is pre-baked and your asparagus is blanched, spread a thin layer of cheese mixture over the pastry. Top with the asparagus, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Step 6: Bake Again
Put the tart back into the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pastry edges are golden brown and crispy.
Asparagus Tart Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or cheeses. Some great options include:
- Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or tarragon can add a fragrant touch.
- Cheese: Swap out the Gruyère for feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Extras: Add a handful of roasted garlic or even a bit of prosciutto for an indulgent twist.
Why Asparagus Tart is Perfect for Spring
Not only is this recipe incredibly easy and delicious, but it also celebrates the fresh flavors of spring vegetables like asparagus. This is a great dish to make for brunch, a light lunch, or even as an appetizer for a dinner party. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the fleeting asparagus season while it lasts!
Since it’s made with puff pastry and can be served warm or at room temperature, it’s perfect for entertaining. You can prep it ahead of time and bake it just before your guests arrive.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Asparagus Tart
This asparagus tart is a simple, elegant way to enjoy the flavors of spring. With its buttery puff pastry, creamy base, and tender roasted asparagus, it's bound to be a hit at your next meal. It’s also easily customizable, making it perfect for your unique tastes or any dietary preferences.
So, head to your local farmers' market, grab some fresh asparagus, and let’s make this tart happen! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media—we love seeing how you make these recipes your own.
Happy cooking, friends!
Asparagus Tart with Crispy Crust
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- 1 Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 package Puff Pastry
- 1 Egg
- 1 8 oz Whipped Cream Cheese
- 2 tablespoon Minced Shallots
- ½ cup Gruyere Cheese
- 2 tablespoon Minced Chives
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. If you're using frozen puff pastry, let it thaw according to the package instructions.
- Once thawed, roll out your puff pastry on a floured surface. You can make individual tarts or go for a larger family-style tart, depending on your preference.
- Brush the edges with egg wash
- For the best texture, pre-bake your puff pastry for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and slightly puffed. This helps create a crispy base that won’t get soggy when you add the toppings.
- While your pastry is baking, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus and blanch until just tender but still vibrant in color.
- Mix whipped cream cheese, shallots, lemon zest, and Gruyère cheese.
- Once your puff pastry is pre-baked and your asparagus is blanched, spread a thin layer of cheese mixture over the pastry.
- Put the tart back into the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pastry edges are golden brown and crispy. Top with the asparagus, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Bonnie says
This recipe was delicious!
The Gruyère really makes this tart. I felt like I was sitting on the French countryside overlooking a vineyard.
It paired nicely with a crisp pint Grigio.
Thanks! 🙏
Please keep these coming!
Shannon Robison says
I think we might need to travel together you sound like someone I need to know! Thank you for trying the recipe it means the world to me!