Oh my goodness, friends! If you’re looking for a dish that brings a cozy, gourmet touch to your table without too much fuss, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts! These little bites of heaven are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or just want to impress your family at a casual gathering.
I remember the first time I made these tarts; it was a chilly fall evening, and my friends were coming over for a cozy movie night. I whipped these up on a whim, and they were devoured within minutes! The combination of earthy mushrooms, the sweet, mild flavor of shallots, and creamy goat cheese creates a symphony of taste that’s nothing short of delightful. Plus, they smell amazing while baking—your kitchen will feel like a cute French bistro! These tarts are so versatile that you can enjoy them hot out of the oven or at room temperature as a lovely snack.
What’s in Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts?
Puff Pastry Sheets: This is the base of our tarts and the secret to that flaky, buttery goodness. I usually go for a brand that doesn’t contain hydrogenated oils for a healthier option.
Fresh Mushrooms: You can use cremini or button mushrooms. Their earthy flavor paired with sweet shallots wonderfully complements the tangy goat cheese. I always try to grab the freshest ones from my local farmer’s market.
Shallots: A tad sweeter and milder than regular onions, shallots elevate the flavor profile of this dish. Trust me; they’re worth seeking out!
Goat Cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, goat cheese is the star of these tarts. You can choose plain, herbed, or even a flavored variety!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or chives add brightness and depth. I love using thyme because it pairs beautifully with the mushrooms and cheese.
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil is essential for sautéing the shallots and mushrooms.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the wonderful flavors.
An Egg: This is used for the egg wash to achieve that golden, irresistible crust.
Is Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts Good for You?
Well, let’s break it down, shall we?
Puff Pastry: While delicious, puff pastry is a bit high in calories and fats, mainly due to its buttery nature. However, using it in moderation for special occasions can be perfectly fine!
Mushrooms: These little fungi are packed with nutrients! They are low in calories and high in antioxidants, giving your immune system a boost.
Shallots: Not only do they add flavor but shallots are also a great source of vitamins B and C, ensuring a healthy dose of nutrients.
Goat Cheese: Packed with protein and calcium, goat cheese is a fantastic source of nutrients. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your diet.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat, olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially when using extra virgin olive oil.
So, while these tarts may not be the healthiest everyday option, they can definitely fit into a balanced diet when served occasionally.
Ingredients
– Puff pastry sheets (enough to make about 12-16 tarts)
– Fresh mushrooms (about 8 oz, either cremini or button, sliced)
– 2 shallots, finely chopped
– 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh herbs (thyme or chives, roughly chopped)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
How to Make Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts?
1. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the puff pastry packaging.
2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into small squares or circles, about 3 inches wide.
3. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until they are soft and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked mushroom and shallot mixture with crumbled goat cheese and chopped fresh herbs. Give it a stir to combine everything.
5. On each pastry square or circle, place a generous spoonful of the mushroom mixture in the center.
6. Gently fold the edges of the pastry to create a little border around the filling.
7. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg for that gorgeous golden finish.
8. Arrange the tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the oven until golden and puffed, about 15-20 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or snack!
Perfecting Your Tarts
Here are a few tips for making your Mushroom, Shallot and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts even better:
– Feel free to add a splash of balsamic vinegar while sautéing the mushrooms and shallots for an extra flavor kick.
– Experiment with different cheeses like feta or ricotta for a unique twist.
– These tarts also freeze beautifully! Just bake them first, cool completely, and then wrap them tightly before freezing. Reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
Trust me, once you make these little delights, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try them! When you do, let me know how they turn out. Happy baking!
