Asparagus in a tart might seem traditional, but I approach this dish with a secret: a hint of citrus zest that elevates every bite. It’s my favorite way to celebrate spring’s fleeting perfection, when the stalks are just tender enough and bursting with freshness. This tart is more than a pretty plate; it’s a celebration of seasons and flavors that surprise and delight.
In my kitchen, I love to play with textures and aromas. The flaky crust, the creamy cheese, and bright asparagus all come together in a dance of contrasts. It’s perfect for brunch, a casual lunch, or that unexpected dinner guest who appreciates elegance with ease. The surprise ingredient? A drizzle of honey that rounds out the savory punch and sparks joy at first taste.
Asparagus and Citrus Tart
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust store-bought or homemade pie crust chilled
- 200 g softened cream cheese or ricotta
- 1 tablespoon citrus zest lemon or orange
- 1 cup grated cheese cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan
- 12 stalks asparagus spears trimmed
- 2 teaspoons honey for finishing
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil for brushing
- to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Roll out the chilled pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/8 inch thick, then fit it into a tart pan and dock the base with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Spread the softened cream cheese over the crust in an even layer, then sprinkle with your choice of grated cheese and citrus zest to add brightness and flavor.
- Trim the asparagus stalks to fit the size of your tart, then toss them gently with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the asparagus spears in a circular pattern över the cheese mixture, starting from the outer edge and working inward for visual appeal.
- Brush the exposed crust edges lightly with olive oil to promote browning, then transfer the tart to a preheated oven.
- Bake the tart at 375°F (190°C) until the crust is golden and flaky, and the cheese filling is bubbling, approximately 40 minutes.
- Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool slightly; then drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Slice the tart and serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional citrus zest if desired.
This dish invites a sense of play and elegance, fitting for spring gatherings or quiet moments of culinary experimentation. Serving it warm or at room temperature, it captures the essence of newly blossomed days. And honestly, every time I make it, I feel a little more connected to the fleeting beauty of the season.
