Description
These Roasted Red Pepper Asparagus Mini Tarts are a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry topped with a creamy ricotta and Parmesan mixture, fresh asparagus, and sweet roasted red peppers. Perfect as a light lunch or elegant starter, they bake to a golden crisp and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cheese Mixture
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Toppings
- 8–10 asparagus spears (trimmed and cut into thirds)
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (sliced into thin strips)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly and cut it into 6 equal rectangles to form the tart bases. Place the rectangles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Score the Pastry Borders: Using a knife, score a 1/2-inch border around the edges of each rectangle without cutting all the way through. This will help the edges rise and create a border during baking.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Tarts: Spread a spoonful of the ricotta mixture onto the center of each puff pastry rectangle, keeping within the scored borders. Arrange the asparagus pieces and roasted red pepper strips evenly on top of the cheese mixture.
- Apply Olive Oil and Egg Wash: Drizzle olive oil over the arranged vegetables to add flavor and moisture. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden color when baked.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm or at room temperature as appetizers or a light lunch.
Notes
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- These mini tarts make excellent appetizers or a light lunch when paired with a fresh salad.
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to avoid tearing.
- Use fresh, tender asparagus for the best texture and flavor.
