Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this stunning Roasted Vegetables Asparagus and Queso Fresco Tart! Imagine a golden, flaky puff pastry canvas loaded with vibrant, roasted vegetables and creamy, crumbly queso fresco that promises to transport you straight to a Mexican-inspired flavor paradise. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dish that combines elegance, simplicity, and irresistible taste in one perfect bite.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to become pliable. Carefully unfold the pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet.
- Wash and trim the asparagus, removing the tough woody ends. Slice the bell pepper into thin, uniform strips to ensure even roasting.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the asparagus and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Arrange the seasoned vegetables on the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges to create a rustic tart border.
- Crumble the queso fresco evenly over the vegetables, distributing it to ensure each slice will have a good amount of cheese.
- Fold the edges of the puff pastry inward, creating a slight raised border that will help contain the vegetables and cheese.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp, and the vegetables are roasted and slightly charred.
- Remove from the oven and let the tart cool for 5-10 minutes. This allows the pastry to set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice the tart into 4 equal portions and serve warm as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish.
Tips
- Pastry Perfection: Always let your puff pastry sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before unfolding to prevent cracking and ensure easy handling.
- Veggie Prep Matters: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to guarantee even roasting and beautiful presentation.
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with olive oil, salt, and pepper - they're key to bringing out the vegetables' natural flavors.
- Cheese Distribution: Crumble queso fresco evenly to ensure every bite has a delightful cheesy touch.
- Oven Positioning: Place the baking sheet in the middle rack for consistent heat distribution and golden-brown results.
- Cooling Technique: Let the tart rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the pastry to set, making slicing cleaner and easier.
- Serving Suggestion: This tart is versatile - serve as a light lunch, appetizer, or stunning side dish that's sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg
