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Asparagus and Cheese Tart

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

  • 3–4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh herbs (such as thyme or basil) for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Asparagus: Asparagus adds a fresh, earthy flavor and a vibrant green color to the tart, making it the star of the dish.

  • Cheese: The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a creamy, melty filling with a perfect balance of tang and richness.

  • Butter: Butter helps create a flaky, tender crust that complements the savory filling.

  • Eggs and Cream: These ingredients help bind the filling together, creating a smooth, custard-like texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Crust:

  1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. Add Ice Water: Gradually add 3 tablespoons of ice water, stirring gently with a fork, until the dough comes together. If the dough seems too dry, add another tablespoon of water.

  3. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the dough firm up and make it easier to roll out.

Prepare the Asparagus:

  1. Blanch the Asparagus: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 1-2 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

Make the Tart Filling:

  1. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard (if using). Add the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

  2. Sauté the Asparagus: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus pieces for 2-3 minutes, just to warm them through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Assemble and Bake the Tart:

  1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan, trimming any excess dough from the edges.

  2. Blind Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the tart crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the paper and weights, and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.

  3. Add the Filling: Pour the cheese mixture into the partially baked crust. Arrange the sautéed asparagus on top in a decorative pattern.

  4. Bake the Tart: Return the tart to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.

  5. Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://buttereats.com/asparagus-and-cheese-tart/