Mediterranean Mushroom, Shallots & Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

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🍄 Mediterranean Mushroom, Shallots & Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts

These flaky puff pastry tarts are layered with sweet caramelized shallots, savory Mediterranean-style mushrooms, and creamy herbed goat cheese. They’re elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight appetizer or light lunch.

 📝 Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 10 oz (280 g) cremini or mixed mushrooms, sliced
  • 3–4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for finishing

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Pastry

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Roll out the puff pastry slightly to smooth edges.
  4. Cut into 4–6 rectangles or squares.
  5. Score a ½-inch border around each piece (don’t cut all the way through).
  6. Brush the borders with beaten egg.
  7. Prick the center with a fork to prevent puffing.

2️⃣ Cook the Mushroom-Shallot Filling

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced shallots and cook 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
  3. Add mushrooms and cook 6–8 minutes until browned and moisture evaporates.
  4. Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 more minute.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3️⃣ Make the Herbed Goat Cheese

In a small bowl, mix:

  • Goat cheese
  • Fresh parsley
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

Stir until smooth and creamy.

4️⃣ Assemble the Tarts

  1. Spread a thin layer of herbed goat cheese inside each pastry border.
  2. Top evenly with mushroom-shallot mixture.
  3. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until pastry is golden and puffed.

5️⃣ Finish & Serve

  • Let cool slightly.
  • Drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze (optional).
  • Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

🍽 Servings

Makes 4–6 tarts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

📌 Notes

  • Make sure mushrooms release all their moisture to avoid soggy pastry.
  • Chill assembled tarts for 10 minutes before baking for extra puff.
  • For extra Mediterranean flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives.

💡 Tips

  • Use a mix of mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster) for deeper flavor.
  • Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta for extra tang.
  • Serve with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.

🥗 Nutritional Info (Approx. per tart)

  • Calories: 280–320
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbs: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g

(Values vary depending on portion size.)

🌿 Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants from mushrooms
  • Contains healthy fats from olive oil
  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Elegant appetizer for gatherings

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare filling in advance and assemble just before baking.

Q: Can I freeze them?
You can freeze unbaked assembled tarts. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
Use vegan puff pastry and dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

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