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Roasted Red Pepper Asparagus Mini Tarts

Roasted Red Pepper Asparagus Mini Tarts

Roasted Red Pepper Asparagus Mini Tarts are vibrant and flavorful bite-sized appetizers that combine smoky roasted red peppers and crisp asparagus inside a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect for parties, brunches, or a savory snack, these tarts are visually stunning and easy to make with fresh ingredients and simple steps.

Ingredients

Scale

Puff Pastry Base

  • 1 sheet thawed puff pastry

Vegetables

  • 68 fresh asparagus stalks, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced into thin strips (fresh roasted or jarred, drained)

Cheese & Creamy Layer

  • 4 oz cream cheese or ricotta, softened

Seasonings & Herbs

  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or basil, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Topping

  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and trim asparagus into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh red peppers, roast them until soft; if using jarred roasted peppers, drain well and slice into thin strips.
  2. Roast Asparagus Lightly: Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until tender-crisp to enhance flavor.
  3. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into small squares or circles, depending on your tart molds or baking trays.
  4. Assemble the Tarts: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or ricotta on each puff pastry piece. Arrange roasted red pepper strips and roasted asparagus generously on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place assembled tarts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until pastry puffs up and turns golden brown.
  6. Final Touches: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves or drizzle balsamic glaze for extra zing before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality puff pastry with real butter content for best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcrowd toppings to allow the pastry to puff and crisp properly while baking.
  • Bring cream cheese or ricotta to room temperature for easy spreading and to prevent tearing the pastry.
  • Pre-roast vegetables in advance to intensify flavor and reduce preparation time on baking day.
  • Brush pastry edges with beaten egg yolk for a beautiful golden finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini tarts, roasted red pepper, asparagus, appetizer, puff pastry, savory snack, party food, vegetarian options, gluten-free