Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots

Introduction

I recently tried making these Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots for a family gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, and the sweet richness of caramelized shallots, all nestled in flaky puff pastry, created a mouthwatering bite that left everyone asking for the recipe. They were the perfect balance of savory and flavorful, and the puff pastry added a delightful texture. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course, these tarts are sure to elevate any meal. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and can be customized for various occasions. My family and guests were in awe of how simple ingredients could come together to create something so elegant and tasty. If you love the combination of mushrooms and goat cheese, you’re going to adore this recipe!

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Why You’ll Love These Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts

These Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots are the ideal dish for anyone who loves bold, savory flavors wrapped in a crispy, buttery puff pastry shell. The rich, earthy mushrooms are complemented perfectly by the tangy, creamy goat cheese, and the caramelized shallots add a layer of sweetness and depth. The flaky puff pastry gives these tarts a delightful crunch, making them the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a light main course. Whether you’re preparing for a dinner party, a casual family meal, or a special celebration, these tarts will not only impress but also satisfy the taste buds of your guests. The ease of preparation and the elegant presentation make this dish an absolute winner in any setting.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 medium shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300g (10 oz) mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster), sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable stock
• 4 oz (120g) goat cheese, softened

For the Pastry:

• 320g (11 oz) puff pastry sheet
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
• Fresh thyme leaves or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté them for about 3–4 minutes, until they are softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and nicely browned. Pour in the white wine (or vegetable stock), allowing it to cook for another 2 minutes, reducing the liquid slightly. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Unroll the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 6 equal rectangles or circles, depending on your preferred shape. Using a knife, score a 1 cm (1/2 inch) border around each piece, but don’t cut all the way through.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Take the softened goat cheese and spread a thin layer onto the center of each pastry, staying within the scored border. Spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over the goat cheese, ensuring each tart gets a generous portion. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg wash to give it a beautiful golden finish when baked.

Step 4: Bake the Tarts
Place the assembled tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve the tarts warm and enjoy!

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Nutrition Facts
(Per Serving – Makes 6 Tarts)

• Serving Size: 1 tart
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

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How to Serve
These savory mushroom and goat cheese tarts are incredibly versatile. Here’s how to serve them:

• As an Appetizer: Serve them warm on a platter as a starter at a dinner party or holiday gathering.
• As a Side Dish: Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a delicious light meal.
• As a Light Main Course: Enjoy them with a side of soup or a green salad for a simple but satisfying dinner.
• For a Special Event: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an elegant touch at weddings, brunches, or any special occasion.
• As a Snack: These tarts are perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or with drinks when you’re entertaining guests.

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Additional Tips

1. Use High-Quality Puff Pastry: The flakiness of puff pastry is key to the success of this recipe, so make sure to use a high-quality one for the best results.
2. Try Different Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like porcini, chanterelle, or even wild mushrooms for more depth of flavor.
3. Goat Cheese Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try using cream cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the tarts just before baking to save time.
5. Freezing Option: These tarts freeze well. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

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FAQ

1. Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly fine and will save you time.

2. Can I prepare the mushroom mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the mushroom filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

3. How do I make these tarts gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free puff pastry option to make the tarts gluten-free.

4. Can I freeze these tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tarts before baking. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.

6. Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like ricotta, cream cheese, or even feta for a different flavor.

7. How do I avoid the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Be sure to score the pastry around the edges, and avoid overloading the center with filling. This will help the pastry stay crispy.

8. What can I serve these tarts with?
These tarts pair well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup.

9. Can I add meat to the tarts?
Yes, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or chicken for a non-vegetarian version of this tart.

10. Are these tarts suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, these tarts are vegetarian, making them a perfect option for those who follow a plant-based diet.

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These Savory Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tarts with Shallots are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With a perfect balance of rich flavors and a crispy, flaky crust, they’re an elegant and delicious choice for any occasion!

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