Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts in 3 Easy Steps Recipe

Introduction

These Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts combine sweet, tender onions with tangy goat cheese on a flaky puff pastry base. Easy to make in just a few steps, they are perfect for a cozy appetizer or a light meal.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter together.
3. Step 3: Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves, then remove the pan from heat.
5. Step 5: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares of your desired size.
6. Step 6: Place a generous spoonful of caramelized onions on each pastry square, then top with crumbled goat cheese.
7. Step 7: Arrange the prepared tarts on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed.
8. Step 8: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or fresh rosemary on top before baking.
• Use red onions for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Swap goat cheese for feta or ricotta for a milder taste.
• Make mini tarts using a muffin tin for easy, bite-sized servings.

Storage

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time?

Yes, caramelized onions can be made a day or two in advance and stored refrigerated. Reheat gently before assembling the tarts.

Can these tarts be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked tarts on a baking tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts in 3 Easy Steps Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 72 reviews

These Irresistible Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors wrapped in a flaky puff pastry. Easy to prepare in just three straightforward steps, these tarts make an elegant appetizer or a delightful snack. The caramelized onions provide a rich sweetness, complemented by the creamy tanginess of goat cheese and the subtle aroma of fresh thyme, all baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 tarts 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Puff Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Caramelized Onions

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Topping

• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the tarts at the right temperature.
2. Caramelize Onions: In a pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter together. Add the thinly sliced onions along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized, approximately 20 minutes. This slow cooking draws out the onions’ natural sweetness.
3. Add Flavorings: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves to the caramelized onions. Mix well and then remove the pan from heat to preserve the fresh herb aroma.
4. Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares of your desired size, typically about 3×3 inches.
5. Assemble Tarts: Place the puff pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Evenly distribute the caramelized onion mixture onto each pastry square, then sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese on top.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tarts for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry has puffed up and turned golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve the tarts warm to enjoy their full flavor and flaky texture.

Notes

• Ensure the onions are cooked slowly to develop a deep caramel flavor without burning.
• You can substitute goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a different texture and flavor.
• Use fresh thyme for a more aromatic taste; dried thyme can be used but in smaller amounts.
• These tarts are best served fresh but can be reheated gently in a low oven.
• For a dairy-free option, replace butter with additional olive oil and use vegan cheese alternatives.

Keywords: caramelized onion tarts, goat cheese tarts, puff pastry appetizers, savory tarts, easy appetizer recipe