Fennel, Olive, and Goat Cheese Tart
Mediterranean Medium

Fennel, Olive, and Goat Cheese Tart

Savory puff pastry topped with caramelized fennel and bright lemon goat cheese

vegetarianmediterraneanbakinglunchdinner
β€” (0 ratings)
⏱️ 1 hour 15 minutes prep · 45 minutes cook
🍽️ 4 Serves
580 Calories
11g Protein
38g Carbs
42g Fat

Why This Recipe Works

Caramelizing fennel in white wine creates a deep sweetness that pairs beautifully with tangy goat cheese and briny olives. The double-bake technique ensures a crisp puff pastry base that won't succumb to the weight of the toppings.


Instructions

1

Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 425 degrees. Lay the puff pastry halves on a parchment paper–lined baking sheet and poke the surface all over with a fork to prevent uneven rising. Bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, about 15 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

2

Using the tip of a paring knife, cut a half-inch-wide border around the top edge of each hot pastry, then gently press the centers down with your fingertips to create a well for the filling.

3

Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Add the fennel and cook until softened and well-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. Uncover and continue cooking until the liquid has fully evaporated and the fennel is very soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. Off the heat, stir in the olives and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

5

Whisk the goat cheese, most of the basil, the remaining oil, lemon zest, and pepper together in a small bowl until smooth. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the centers of the par-baked pastry shells, then spoon the fennel mixture over the top.

6

Return the tarts to the oven and bake 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 warm.


🍽️ Complete the Meal

πŸ“…
Make Ahead: The tarts can be assembled through step 5 and held at room temperature for up to 2 hours before the final bake.
🧊
Storage: Best enjoyed immediately, as puff pastry will lose its crispness when refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this recipe?

Best enjoyed immediately, as puff pastry will lose its crispness when refrigerated.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The tarts can be assembled through step 5 and held at room temperature for up to 2 hours before the final bake.

Rohit Bothra
Recipe by

Rohit Bothra

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

Learn more about me β†’
⏱️ 00:00