Fennel and Goat Cheese Tart
French Medium

Fennel and Goat Cheese Tart

Caramelized fennel and herb-infused goat cheese on a crisp puff pastry base

vegetariandinnerbakedfrenchweeknight
(0 ratings)
⏱️ 55 minutes 20 minutes prep · 22 minutes cook
🍽️ 4 Serves
480 Calories
11g Protein
34g Carbs
33g Fat

Why This Recipe Works

Caramelizing the fennel first ensures a deep, sweet contrast to the bright lemon and tangy goat cheese. It is a sophisticated meal that relies on high-quality store-bought pastry for a quick, flaky result.


Instructions

1

Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 425°F. Lay the puff pastry halves on a parchment paper–lined baking sheet and poke all over with a fork to prevent them from rising too unevenly.

2

Bake the pastry until puffed and golden brown, about 15 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through for an even color. Using the tip of a paring knife, cut a half-inch-wide border around the top edge of each pastry, then gently press the centers down with your fingertips to create a shallow shell.

3

Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the fennel and cook until softened and browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.

4

Stir in the wine, cover the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes. Remove the lid and continue cooking until the liquid has evaporated and the fennel is very soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, stir in the olives and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5

Mix the goat cheese, basil, oil, lemon zest, and pepper together in a small bowl until smooth, then spread it evenly over the center of the pastry shells. Spoon the fennel mixture over the top. You can let the tarts sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before the final bake if needed.

6

Bake the assembled tarts until the cheese is heated through and the crust is a deep golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining basil and serve while the pastry is still warm and crisp.


🍽️ Complete the Meal

Mixed green salad with a lemon-dill vinaigrette
📅
Make Ahead: The fennel mixture can be cooked 1 day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the tarts just before baking.
🧊
Storage: Refrigerate leftover tarts for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this recipe?

Refrigerate leftover tarts for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The fennel mixture can be cooked 1 day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the tarts just before baking.

Rohit Bothra
Recipe by

Rohit Bothra

Self-taught cook exploring global vegetarian cuisine from my Atlanta kitchen.

Learn more about me →
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