This Spring Asparagus Tart is a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. It's an easy yet impressive dish that captures the essence of springtime flavors in every bite.
Puff pastry is the foundation of this tart, offering a light, flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling and tender asparagus. Fresh asparagus is the star of the show, providing a crisp, fresh taste that embodies the essence of spring. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy base that complements the asparagus without overpowering it, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. A touch of olive oil drizzled over the asparagus enhances its natural flavor and helps it roast to perfection. Garlic and lemon zest brighten the filling with a hint of zestiness, and a bit of salt and black pepper ensure the flavors are balanced. Finally, a beaten egg brushed on the pastry gives the crust its beautiful golden finish.
This tart is versatile; serve it as a light lunch with a simple green salad and vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, pair it with a roasted chicken or a hearty soup. A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the asparagus and lemon zest wonderfully.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the puff pastry gets that perfectly golden and flaky texture. While the oven heats, roll out your puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
In a mixing bowl, combine your ricotta cheese, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Stir until everything is well mixed — this is your creamy, flavor-packed base. Spread this cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, making sure to leave about a 1-inch border all around. This border will puff up beautifully, creating a crisp edge.
Next, lay the asparagus spears over the cheese layer. You can get creative here — line them up in neat rows or a more rustic scatter. Once arranged, brush the exposed border of the pastry with the beaten egg. This step is key for a golden, appetizing crust. Finish by drizzling olive oil over the asparagus, which helps it roast to tender perfection.
Pop the tart in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the pastry is golden and the asparagus tips are just starting to caramelize. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, so the cheese has time to set slightly.
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