Asparagus Tartlets

Asparagus Tartlets

makes 18
This is a simple, delicious, and elegant way to enjoy fresh, spring asparagus. Add these delicate, buttery bites to your brunch buffet or offer them as appetizers. If you prefer to skip the individualization, make it on one large single sheet of pastry and cut them into portions after baking. Either way, it will be enjoyed for both its taste and presentation.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound thin asparagus
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese (finely shredded)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F. 
  2. Rinse asparagus. Trim tough ends. Set aside on clean towel to dry. 
  3. Lay puff pastry on lightly floured surface. Gently roll to 9 x12 inches. Cut into 18 rectangles, 2 x 3 inches each. Using a sharp paring knife, score each pastry, drawing a frame just within the edges. This will help to form a border around the asparagus when it bakes.
  4. If desired, brush a thin layer of mustard over the centers of each pastry. Prick within the frame a few times with a fork. Sprinkle each tart with a bit of Gruyère.
  5. Cut asparagus to fit neatly into the centers of each pastry. Place three stalks in each, pressing down slightly to help them stick. Drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  6. Bake 12 to 14 minutes until pastry is puffed and golden and asparagus is tender. If desired, sprinkle with parmesan and top with lemon zest. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cook Tips

If you prefer to make a single, large tart, bake 20 to 25 minutes.
For a tangier version, substitute goat cheese for the Gruyère.
 

Nutrition

Amount Per Serving (based on 18 servings)
  • Calories: 110
  • Fat: 9.0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5.0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 20.0 mg
  • Sodium: 85.0 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 7.0 g
  • Fiber: 1.0 g
  • Added Sugars: 0 g
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Protein: 2.0 g