Description
These Roasted Red Pepper Asparagus Mini Tarts offer a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, tangy Parmesan, sweet roasted red peppers, and tender asparagus atop a flaky puff pastry. Perfectly baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh thyme or microgreens, these savory tarts make an elegant appetizer or a charming addition to any brunch spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cheese Mixture
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- ½ cup roasted red peppers (drained and chopped)
- 12 thin asparagus spears (trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Finishing
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Optional: fresh thyme or microgreens for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. Transfer the rectangles to the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well incorporated.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Top each with a few pieces of chopped roasted red pepper and arrange 2 asparagus spears on top.
- Apply Egg Wash and Olive Oil: Brush the exposed edges of the pastry with beaten egg to encourage browning. Drizzle the asparagus lightly with olive oil to enhance flavor and texture.
- Bake Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is golden, puffed, and the asparagus is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or microgreens if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added flavor, drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the tarts before serving.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
- These mini tarts are ideal for brunch or as elegant appetizers at parties.
