Gourmet Asparagus and Cheddar Potato Tart
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of this Gourmet Asparagus and Cheddar Potato Tart. This beautifully presented tart combines the earthy freshness of asparagus, creamy richness of potatoes, and tangy notes of white cheddar and Lancashire cheeses, all encased in a delicate phyllo pastry crust. Perfect for a luxurious breakfast treat, this dish will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh asparagus
1 lb (trimmed to fit pan)
Phyllo pastry sheets
12 ounces (defrosted)
Butter
1/4 lb (melted)
Potato
1 lb (boiled and mashed)
White cheddar cheese
1/4 lb (grated)
Lancashire cheese
1/4 lb (grated)
Grated nutmeg
1 pinch (freshly grated, less than 1/8 tsp)
Heavy cream or double cream
1/2 pint (none)
Eggs
3 (beaten lightly)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large pot of salted water to boil.
2
Trim the asparagus spears to fit within the length of a rectangular tart pan with a removable bottom.
3
Blanch the trimmed asparagus in the boiling water for about 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4
In the same pot, boil the potatoes in salted water for approximately 12 minutes or until tender. Drain well.
5
While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the tart crust by layering phyllo pastry sheets in the tart pan, allowing about 1 inch of dough to overhang the edge. Brush each layer with melted butter as you go.
6
In a large bowl, mash the cooked potatoes and combine them with the grated white cheddar and Lancashire cheeses. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and the grated nutmeg.
7
Gradually incorporate the heavy cream and beaten eggs into the potato and cheese mixture, stirring until well combined and smooth.
8
Pour the potato mixture into the prepared phyllo crust, ensuring an even distribution.
9
Arrange the blanched asparagus spears on top of the filling, alternating the direction of the tips for an attractive presentation.
10
Lightly brush the top of the tart with any remaining melted butter, then gently fold the overhanging phyllo pastry edges over the filling to create a rustic border.
11
Place the tart on the lowest shelf of the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crisp.
12
Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to set for at least 15 minutes before serving.
13
Serve warm, accompanied by a light salad of fresh spring greens.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Gourmet Asparagus and Cheddar Potato Tart?
It is a beautifully presented savory tart that combines earthy asparagus, creamy potatoes, and tangy cheeses in a delicate phyllo pastry crust.
What kind of crust does this recipe use?
The recipe uses 12 ounces of defrosted phyllo pastry sheets.
How many servings does this tart provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people.
Which cheeses are included in the filling?
The filling uses a combination of grated white cheddar and Lancashire cheeses.
How should the asparagus be prepared?
Trim the spears to fit the tart pan and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How long should the potatoes be boiled?
Boil the potatoes in salted water for approximately 12 minutes or until they are tender.
How do I prepare the phyllo pastry layers?
Layer the sheets in the pan, leaving a 1-inch overhang, and brush each individual layer with melted butter.
What seasonings are added to the potato and cheese mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.
Where should the tart be placed in the oven?
Place the tart on the lowest shelf of the preheated oven for the best results.
What is the baking time for the tart?
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the phyllo pastry is golden and crisp.
How long does the tart need to rest after baking?
Allow the tart to set for at least 15 minutes before you attempt to serve it.
What type of cream can be used in the filling?
You can use either heavy cream or double cream.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe.
What is a suggested side dish?
Serve the tart warm with a light salad of fresh spring greens.
How should the asparagus be arranged for presentation?
Arrange the blanched spears on top of the filling, alternating the direction of the tips.
How much butter is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 lb of melted butter.
How many eggs are needed?
The recipe requires 3 eggs, beaten lightly.
What type of pan is recommended?
A rectangular tart pan with a removable bottom is recommended.
How much dough should overhang the pan?
You should allow about 1 inch of dough to overhang the edge of the pan.
What should the consistency of the potato mixture be?
The mixture should be stirred until it is well combined and smooth.
What is the role of the nutmeg?
Nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic spice note to the cheese and potato filling.
How do you create the tart border?
Gently fold the overhanging phyllo pastry edges back over the filling to create a rustic border.
When is this dish typically served?
It is described as a luxurious breakfast treat but is also suitable for spring lunches.
How much nutmeg is used?
Use one pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, which is less than 1/8 teaspoon.
Should the potatoes be mashed?
Yes, after boiling and draining, the potatoes should be mashed before mixing with other ingredients.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 specific ingredients listed for this dish.
Should the tart be served hot or cold?
The tart is best served warm.
Is the asparagus cooked before being placed in the tart?
Yes, it is blanched in boiling water for 2 minutes first.
What should you do with remaining melted butter?
Lightly brush the top of the tart with any remaining butter before folding the edges.