Asparagus and almond tart (recipe no. 200)

Delicious Tart with Asparagus and Almonds

Spring brings an explosion of fresh flavors and wonderful ingredients, and asparagus is undoubtedly one of the most refined gifts of this season. Here is a recipe for a tart with asparagus and almonds that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a splash of sunshine to your plate. This dish is perfect for an elegant lunch, a special dinner, or even a brunch gathering with friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients needed for the tart:
- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 250 g)
- 50 g ricotta
- 150 ml cream
- 1 whole egg
- 1 yolk
- 100 g grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 500 g fresh asparagus
- 30 g sliced almonds
- Sliced parmesan, for garnish

Preparation of the tart:

1. Preparing the asparagus: Start by cleaning the asparagus. Cut off the woody tips and keep only the tender stalks. Wash them well under cold running water. Then, steam the asparagus for 8-10 minutes until tender but still crisp. This step will not only enhance the flavor but also add a pleasant texture to the tart.

2. Preparing the pastry: Preheat the oven to 200 °C. Place a tart pan on a flat surface and line it with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry evenly in the pan, ensuring it rises slightly on the edges to hold the delicious filling.

3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, cream, egg, yolk, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. Whisk well with a whisk or spatula until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. Taste the filling to ensure it is well seasoned.

4. Assembling the tart: Pour the cheese filling over the rolled-out pastry in the pan. Arrange the cooked asparagus evenly on top of the filling, carefully placing it for an attractive appearance.

5. Baking: Place the pan in the oven and bake the tart for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is set. After this time, remove the tart from the oven and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top. Return the tart to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the almonds are golden and crunchy.

6. Finishing: Finally, take the tart out of the oven and sprinkle the parmesan slices on top, allowing them to melt slightly. Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing.

7. Serving: Serve this tart warm or at room temperature, alongside a fresh arugula salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It is undoubtedly a dish that will impress!

Useful tips:
- If you can't find asparagus, don't worry! You can use other spring vegetables like new potatoes, green beans, zucchini, or carrots, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a lower-calorie alternative, you can use savory tart dough instead of puff pastry.
- Make sure the filling is well seasoned; ricotta cheese can be quite bland, so don’t hesitate to add more salt or spices to taste.
- You can also add fresh herbs like dill or basil to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
This tart is rich in protein due to the ricotta cheese and egg, while asparagus provides an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. Almonds add healthy fats and a crunch.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can try goat cheese or feta cheese for a different flavor.

2. How can I make this tart less rich?
Replace the cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative.

3. Can I prepare the tart in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tart a few hours ahead, but it is recommended to reheat it slightly before serving to restore its texture and flavor.

The experience of cooking this tart with asparagus and almonds is not only enjoyable but also comforting. With every bite, you will taste the fresh flavor of spring, accompanied by the rich aromas of cheese and the crunch of almonds. It is not just a meal but a celebration of the season, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy!