Description

Crispy, golden puff pastry topped with tender asparagus spears, creamy cheese, and a touch of seasoning—these Asparagus Puff Pastry Tarts are an easy yet elegant dish perfect for brunch, appetizers, or a light lunch. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a stunning tart that’s flaky, fresh, and full of flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Tarts:

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
12–15 thin asparagus spears, trimmed
½ cup ricotta cheese or cream cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp lemon zest
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh thyme or parsley
A squeeze of lemon juice
Red pepper flakes
Shaved Parmesan

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Cut into 4–6 equal rectangles, depending on the size you prefer.
Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Score and Brush the Pastry
Using a sharp knife, score a border about ½ inch from the edge of each rectangle (don’t cut all the way through).
Brush the outer border with beaten egg to help it turn golden and puff up.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, mix ricotta or cream cheese with Parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Spread the cheese mixture within the scored border of each pastry rectangle.

Step 5: Add Asparagus
Arrange 2–3 asparagus spears on each tart, depending on their size and tart width.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the asparagus is tender.
Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and cool slightly.
Top with fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or extra cheese if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use Thin Asparagus – Thicker spears may need to be blanched before baking.
Keep Puff Pastry Cold – Cold dough puffs better in the oven.
Don’t Overload – Too much filling can prevent even puffing.
Try Other Cheeses – Goat cheese, feta, or shredded mozzarella work great.
Make Mini Versions – Cut into smaller squares for bite-size appetizers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: French-Inspired / Brunch