Asparagus Tart

Asparagus and Philadelphia Cheese Tart: a culinary delight

Who doesn't love a savory tart with fresh flavors and diverse textures? This asparagus and Philadelphia cheese tart recipe is perfect for a spring meal or an elegant dinner. The asparagus, with its delicate taste, pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, while the puff pastry adds a crispy contrast. Moreover, it is a simple and quick recipe that can be prepared even by beginners. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 300 g Philadelphia cheese
- 600 g green asparagus
- 1 package of round puff pastry (approximately 250 g)
- 0.5 dl milk
- 3 egg yolks + 1 yolk for brushing
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)

Recipe history
The asparagus and cheese tart has become popular in many culinary cultures, often associated with spring when asparagus is in season. This is a versatile recipe that can be adapted based on available ingredients or personal preferences. Over time, the tart has been served both as an appetizer and as a main course, being a beloved dish for festive meals.

Step by step for a perfect tart

1. Prepare the asparagus
Start by boiling a pot of water with a pinch of salt. This will be the base for softening the asparagus. Meanwhile, wash the asparagus and remove the tough lower part. Use a vegetable peeler to peel half the length of the asparagus for a finer texture.

2. Boil the asparagus
Once the water starts boiling, add the asparagus to the pot and let it boil for 5 minutes. This process will soften the vegetable while keeping its vibrant color and nutrients. After boiling, remove it and let it cool slightly, then drain. Once cooled, cut the asparagus into rounds, keeping the tips whole for decoration.

3. Prepare the cheese cream
In a bowl, add the Philadelphia cheese, milk, 3 egg yolks, salt, and pepper. Use a mixer or spatula to mix the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This combination will add a richness of flavor and a creamy texture to your tart.

4. Assemble the tart
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Roll out the puff pastry in a round tart pan with a diameter of 25 cm, lined with parchment paper. Make sure the pastry evenly covers the bottom and sides of the pan. Spread the cheese cream evenly over the pastry, then arrange the asparagus rounds and decorate with the tips.

5. Bake the tart
Before placing the tart in the oven, brush the surface of the pastry with an egg yolk for a golden and glossy crust. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the pastry becomes crispy and golden.

6. Serving and suggestions
Once the tart is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. You can serve this tart warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh green salad or with a yogurt sauce with dill, which will add a refreshing touch.

Tips and useful advice
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the cheese cream.
- Replace the asparagus with other vegetables like zucchini or carrots to create different variations of the recipe.
- For a more intense flavor, you can add some slices of crispy bacon or feta cheese on top.

Nutritional benefits
Asparagus is a vegetable rich in vitamins (especially vitamin K and vitamin C), minerals, and antioxidants. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. A serving of asparagus and cheese tart can contain approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and pastry used.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned asparagus instead of fresh?
Although fresh asparagus provides a better texture and a more vibrant taste, you can use canned asparagus. Just make sure to drain it well before use.

- Can I prepare this tart in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tart a few hours before serving. We recommend keeping it in the refrigerator and gently reheating it before serving.

- What drinks pair well with this tart?
An asparagus and cheese tart pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay. Additionally, a cold green tea can be an excellent choice to complement spring meals.

Enjoy this asparagus and Philadelphia cheese tart, a recipe that brings not only flavor but also joy in every bite. Bon appétit!