Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts 

These Mushroom, Shallot, and Herbed Goat Cheese Tarts are a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms, sweet shallots, and creamy herbed goat cheese, all nestled in a flaky puff pastry shell. The sautéed mushrooms and shallots are seasoned with fresh herbs, creating a savory filling that's both rich and aromatic. Whether served as an elegant appetizer, a light lunch, or a savory addition to a brunch spread, these tarts are sure to impress. Their simplicity and flavor make them a versatile choice for various occasions. 

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  
  

• All-purpose flour, for dusting
  
  

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  
  

For the Filling:

• 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped (e.g., cremini, shiitake, or a mix)
  
  

• 2 shallots, finely chopped
  
  

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 4 oz herbed goat cheese, softened
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
  

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for sautéing)
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
   

2. Prepare Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 4-inch squares or 6-inch rectangles, depending on your preference.
   
   

3. Score and Dock: Score a line about 1/2 inch from the edge of each pastry piece to create a border. Use a fork to dock (poke holes) in the center of the pastry.
   
   

4. Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to promote a golden finish during baking.
   
   

5. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
   
   

6. Cook Mushrooms: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the chopped mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

7. Cool Filling: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mushroom mixture to cool slightly.
   
   

8. Assemble Tarts: Spread a layer of softened herbed goat cheese within the scored border of each pastry piece. Top with a generous spoonful of the cooled mushroom mixture.
   
   

9. Fold Edges: Gently fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic tart shape.
   
   

10. Bake: Place the assembled tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
    
    

11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
    
    

Nutritional Information (per tart)

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 18g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 8g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 35mg
  
  

• Sodium: 150mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugars: 3g
  
  

• Protein: 5g