Mediterranean Mushroom, Shallots & Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts
These Mediterranean Mushroom, Shallots, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts feature flaky pastry filled with caramelized shallots, earthy mushrooms, and tangy herbed goat cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, light lunch, or paired with a fresh salad for dinner, these savory tarts balance richness with bright Mediterranean flavors.
⏱ Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Ingredients
Pastry Base
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Filling
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 shallots, thinly sliced
10 oz (280 g) cremini or mixed mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Cheese & Garnish
4 oz (115 g) herbed goat cheese (or plain with added herbs like parsley, basil, and dill)
¼ cup crumbled feta (optional, for extra tang)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Drizzle of honey (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1. Prepare Pastry
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll puff pastry slightly on a floured surface.
Cut into 6–8 rectangles (or leave whole for one tart).
Place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Score a ½-inch border around each piece (without cutting through) to create a crust.
Brush edges with beaten egg.
2. Cook the Filling
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Add shallots, cooking 5 minutes until soft and golden.
Add mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 7–8 minutes until mushrooms release moisture and caramelize.
Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook 1 more minute. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble Tarts
Spread a thin layer of goat cheese inside the pastry borders.
Spoon mushroom-shallot mixture evenly on top.
Sprinkle with feta if using.
4. Bake
Bake 18–22 minutes until pastry is puffed and golden.
5. Finish & Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory touch if desired.
Serve warm.
Notes & Tips
For added Mediterranean flair, sprinkle with Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes before baking.
If you prefer a lighter base, use phyllo pastry layered with olive oil instead of puff pastry.
These can be made in a muffin tin for bite-size party tarts.
Pair with an arugula salad and lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes — prepare filling in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Bake, cool, and freeze. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use caramelized onions instead of shallots?
A: Absolutely! They’ll add a slightly sweeter depth of flavor.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~310
Protein: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 420 mg