Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

These Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful treat that combines creamy goat cheese with earthy mushrooms and aromatic shallots. Perfect for any gathering, these tarts are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. The flaky puff pastry adds a delightful crunch, making each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these tarts up in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of mushrooms, herbs, and goat cheese creates a rich, savory filling that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: These tarts are great for appetizers, snacks, or even as a side dish for dinner.
• Gourmet Presentation: Impress your guests with these elegant-looking tarts that are perfect for special occasions or casual get-togethers.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or vegetables to make this recipe your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make these Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools will streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking pans
• Large skillet
• Fork
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking pans: Ensure even baking and provide enough space for multiple tarts.
• Large skillet: Allows you to sauté the filling ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Fork: Ideal for poking holes in the puff pastry to prevent it from puffing unevenly.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth egg wash for that beautiful golden finish on the pastry.

Ingredients

For the Tarts

• 10 4-inch puff pastry sheet squares (see notes!)
• 8 oz mushrooms (any kind will do! sliced)
• 1 shallot (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/3 cup parsley leaves (roughly chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup parmesan
• 4 oz goat cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon each of sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper
• 1 egg, whisked (for egg wash)
• 1/4 cup white grape juice (can sub with chicken broth!)

How to Make Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, prepare two large baking pans by arranging the 4-inch square puff pastry sheets on them. Make sure to leave an inch or two of space between each square.

Step 2: Sauté the Filling

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in the sliced mushrooms along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and all spices. Cook for another 2 minutes.
• Pour in the white grape juice and let it cook down for an additional 4-5 minutes until most of the liquid evaporates.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Turn off the heat and mix in the goat cheese, parmesan cheese, and parsley. Stir until everything is well combined and the goat cheese has melted into a creamy filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Tarts

Scoop generous portions of the mushroom mixture onto each puff pastry square. You can choose to leave the sides unpinched for a rustic look or pinch them together to create fun shapes—either way works beautifully!

Step 5: Egg Wash & Bake

Using your whisked egg, brush it over only the bare areas of each puff pastry square—avoid covering the filling. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy your delicious Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts!

How to Serve Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

These delicious tarts are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

As an Appetizer

• Start your meal with these tarts as a delightful appetizer. Serve them warm to impress your guests and stimulate their appetites.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair the tarts with a light salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich filling perfectly.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Add these tarts to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, nuts, and fruits for an elegant touch. They provide variety and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Incorporate the tarts into your brunch menu alongside quiches and pastries. Their savory flavor works well with sweeter brunch items like fruit and pancakes.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve the tarts with dipping sauces such as pesto or balsamic reduction. This adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

For Meal Prep

• These tarts make an excellent meal prep option. Pack them with some roasted vegetables for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

How to Perfect Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

To ensure your Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Make sure your puff pastry is cold before baking. This helps achieve that flaky texture we all love.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the pastry squares. A generous scoop is great, but too much can lead to messy baking.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven fully before placing the tarts inside. This ensures even cooking and browning.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix different herbs according to your taste preferences. Fresh thyme or dill can offer unique flavors.
• Serve Immediately: These tarts are best served fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and flaky.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality goat cheese for better flavor. It makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Best Side Dishes for Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

Complementing your tarts with side dishes can elevate your meal experience even further. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and garlic, then roast until tender for a flavorful side.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing adds crunch and nutrition.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve fluffy mashed potatoes seasoned with herbs as a comforting side that pairs well with the rich tarts.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides freshness that balances the richness of the tarts.
5. Caprese Skewers: Assemble cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella on skewers for a fresh appetizer that complements the flavors of the tarts.
6. Roasted Beet Salad: A salad made from roasted beets topped with feta cheese offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
7. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve alongside crispy pita chips or bread for a creamy dip option that’s always popular at gatherings.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide additional flavor dimensions while being visually appealing on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the egg wash: Not applying an egg wash can result in tarts that are dull and lack the golden color we all love. Make sure to brush the edges with a whisked egg for that beautiful finish.
• Overcrowding the baking pans: Placing too many pastry squares on one pan can cause uneven cooking. Always leave space between each tart to ensure they puff up nicely.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to soggy pastry. Preheat your oven thoroughly before placing your tarts inside for optimal flakiness.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold goat cheese or puff pastry can hinder how well they blend together. Let your ingredients sit at room temperature before mixing them.
• Neglecting to poke holes in the pastry: Forgetting this step may result in a puffed-up pastry without the desired texture. Use a fork to poke small holes in each square so they cook evenly.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store tarts in an airtight container.
• item They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

• item Allow tarts to cool completely before freezing.
• item Wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• item They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm, but this may make the pastry less crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, covering with a lid for even heating without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of mushrooms?

Yes! Feel free to use any variety of mushrooms you prefer, such as cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms. Each type adds its unique flavor.

How do I customize my Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts?

You can add extra ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs according to your taste preferences.

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it separately from the pastry squares. Assemble just before baking for freshness.

What is the best way to serve these tarts?

These tarts are great served warm as an appetizer or alongside a salad as a light meal. They also work well for parties!

Conclusion

Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their creamy filling combined with flaky pastry makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize the herbs or add other favorite ingredients to make this dish your own!