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Fresh Asparagus Tart Recipe – Easy Puff Pastry Brunch Idea

fresh asparagus tart - featured image

This Fresh Asparagus Tart features a golden, flaky puff pastry base topped with tender asparagus, creamy cheese, and a hint of lemon zest. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing brunch dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for spring gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (810 oz, thawed but still cold)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat or light)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (about 2 oz)
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 oz)
  • Zest from 1 small lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus spears (about 1 lb, ends trimmed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Optional: everything bagel seasoning, red chili flakes, or extra cheese for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Lightly flour your work surface. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and roll it out to a rectangle about 10×14 inches. Transfer to the lined baking sheet.
  3. Using a sharp knife, gently score a border about 1 inch from the edge all the way around the pastry (do not cut all the way through).
  4. Prick the pastry inside the border all over with a fork. Chill the pastry in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded Gruyère, Parmesan, lemon zest, and chives. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and spreadable.
  6. Rinse and trim woody ends off asparagus. If spears are thick, slice in half lengthwise. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  7. Spread the cheese mixture evenly inside the pastry border. Arrange asparagus spears on top.
  8. Beat the egg with a splash of water. Brush the pastry borders with the egg wash.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until edges are puffed and golden brown and asparagus is tender.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with extra cheese, chili flakes, or everything bagel seasoning if desired. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Keep puff pastry cold for best results. Score the edges, but don’t slice through. Don’t overload with toppings to avoid sogginess. Season every layer for maximum flavor. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning. Let the tart rest for 5 minutes before slicing for neat pieces. You can swap cheeses or veggies to suit your taste or dietary needs. For gluten-free, use gluten-free puff pastry.

Nutrition

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