Puff Pastry Tart with Asparagus & Goat Cheese

A warm kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of baking pastry is one of my favorite scenes. This Puff Pastry Tart with Asparagus & Goat Cheese is an elegant dish that comes together in about 30 minutes and combines flaky layers with creamy goat cheese and vibrant asparagus. The ease of making it makes it a go-to recipe for both casual family dinners and special gatherings.

This recipe is perfect for springtime celebrations or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. You can prepare the goat cheese filling ahead of time and assemble the tart just before baking for a fresh out-of-the-oven experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The flaky puff pastry creates a crispy contrast to the creamy filling.
• Fresh asparagus adds a vibrant color and a nutritional boost.
• The tangy goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the bright lemon zest.
• A drizzle of hot honey creates a delightful flavor balance.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a delightful tart experience.

For the Filling

• 7 oz goat cheese, room temperature
• 4 oz ricotta cheese, room temperature
• Zest from 1 lemon, divided

For the Asparagus

• 3/4 lb fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed (thinner stalks work best)
• 2 tsps extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed in the fridge overnight

For Topping

• 2 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced, torn
• Hot honey, for drizzling (optional)
• Freshly grated parmesan, for topping (optional)
• 1 sprig fresh mint, chiffonade, for topping

For best flavor, use high-quality goat cheese.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ricotta can be swapped for cream cheese.
• Asparagus can be replaced with zucchini.
• Prosciutto can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
• Hot honey can be replaced with regular honey.

How to Make It

Create a delicious tart with these simple steps.

Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 425ºF.

Combine ingredients

In a food processor, combine the goat cheese, ricotta, and half of the zest from one lemon. Process on high until completely smooth. Set aside.

Toss asparagus

In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Prepare the pastry

Lightly flour a work surface and place a piece of parchment paper down. Unroll the puff pastry into a large rectangle (about 10 by 16 inches) onto the parchment and transfer it to the baking sheet. Use a knife to run a 1-inch border around the edges, being careful not to pierce all the way through. Use a fork to poke holes throughout the center of the tart all over. This helps prevent bubbling while baking.

Spread filling

Using a spatula or butter knife, spread the whipped goat cheese all over the center of the tart. You will have leftovers.

Arrange asparagus

Scatter the asparagus onto the tart, going in different directions. You can use an egg wash around the edges of the puff pastry to brown them more if you’d like. If you want to fold the edges over, you can do that as well.

Bake the tart

Transfer to the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the sides are golden and browned.

Top the tart

Remove the tart and top with prosciutto, a drizzle of honey, parmesan cheese, and fresh mint.

Cool and slice

Let the tart cool just slightly and then slice into squares and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, due to pastry texture loss.
Reheat: Bake in the oven at 350ºF for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use room temperature cheeses for easy blending.
• Opt for fresh, seasonal asparagus for the best flavor.
• Feel free to customize toppings with your favorite herbs or cheeses.
• Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light salad for a delightful lunch.
• Serve at a spring gathering or brunch.
• Complement with a glass of white wine.