Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This Asparagus and Gruyère Tart is the perfect solution for a weeknight meal that impresses without the fuss. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the combination of fresh asparagus and creamy Gruyère cheese is simply divine. This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking to the next level!
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) ready-made puff pastry, thawed
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or a similar strong cheese like Swiss)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Blanch the asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, until it's bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately plunge it into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Tart: Unfold the puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a fork, prick the pastry all over to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking. Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border.
Step 3: Create the Egg Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Fill the Tart: Arrange the blanched asparagus evenly over the mustard-coated pastry. Pour the egg custard mixture over the asparagus, ensuring it's distributed evenly. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese generously over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Tart: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian option: This recipe is already vegetarian!
- Add some protein: Consider adding cooked bacon or ham for a heartier tart.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Fontina, Comté, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like chives or tarragon would be a delicious addition.
- Make it ahead: The tart can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Asparagus and Gruyère Tart is a wonderful example of delicious dishes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect choice for a romantic dinner, a casual weeknight meal, or even a special occasion. The combination of flaky pastry, tender asparagus, and rich cheese is sure to please everyone. Enjoy!