Asparagus Ricotta Tart Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed to 8-inch lengths
• 1 cup full fat ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Asiago cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 sheet refrigerated puff pastry
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and add the asparagus. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened. Remove the asparagus from the pot and immediately place them in cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain the asparagus and pat dry with a paper towel.

3. Crack the egg into a small bowl and lightly beat it. Set aside about 1 tablespoon of the beaten egg for the egg wash. To the remaining egg, add ricotta, Asiago cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until fully combined.

4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a large rectangle, approximately 10x15 inches. Transfer the pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.

5. Using a pastry brush, dip it into the remaining beaten egg and brush a 1-inch border around the edges of the puff pastry.

6. Spread the ricotta filling evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving the 1-inch border free of filling. Arrange the asparagus over the ricotta mixture.

7. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed around the edges.

9. Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before cutting it into 8 squares. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	121	-
Total Fat	8g	11%
Saturated Fat	4g	18%
Cholesterol	41mg	14%
Sodium	165mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	5g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	5%
Total Sugars	1g	-
Protein	7g	14%
Vitamin C	5mg	5%
Calcium	119mg	9%
Iron	1mg	6%
Potassium	182mg	4%

The Story Behind the Asparagus Ricotta Tart

The asparagus ricotta tart is a modern interpretation of traditional European vegetable tarts, blending the creamy richness of ricotta with the fresh, earthy flavor of spring asparagus. Its origins can be traced back to Italy and France, where farmers families created savory pastries using seasonal produce and soft cheeses. Over time, this tart evolved in American kitchens, incorporating puff pastry for a lighter, flakier crust and Italian seasoning for an aromatic finish. Today, it is celebrated as a brunch and appetizer staple in many contemporary households.

Regional Variations and Unique Twists

While the classic version relies on Italian ingredients like ricotta, Asiago, and olive oil, regional adaptations exist across Europe and the United States. In France, similar tarts may use pte brise or a shortcrust base and include herbs such as tarragon or chives. In Mediterranean regions, some recipes swap ricotta for feta or goat cheese and incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives. In the U.S., chefs often add a drizzle of balsamic reduction or sprinkle microgreens atop the tart to highlight local produce and contemporary flavor trends.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike quiches, which use a custard filling bound by eggs and cream, the asparagus ricotta tart focuses on the cheese as the primary filling, creating a denser, creamier texture without a custard base. Compared to vegetable galettes, which are rustic and freeform, this tart is neatly structured with a puff pastry edge that puffs in the oven, offering both visual appeal and a contrasting flaky texture. The asparagus topping, often lightly blanched, ensures the vegetable remains crisp and vibrant, distinguishing it from softer, baked-in vegetable layers found in similar tarts.

Typical Serving Occasions

This tart is most often served as a brunch centerpiece, an appetizer for spring gatherings, or a light lunch. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, sparkling water, or a fresh herb salad. Because it can be served slightly warm or at room temperature, it is a versatile dish for buffets, picnic spreads, or casual dinner parties. Its visual appealbright green asparagus spears arranged neatly over a golden crustmakes it a favorite for special occasions and seasonal celebrations.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Notes

Asparagus has long been considered a spring delicacy, prized for its tender spears and nutritional value. Ricotta, originally made from whey leftover from cheese production, was a humble ingredient that has become a gourmet staple. Combining the two creates a dish that is both elegant and accessible. Fun fact: the puff pastry used in this tart is made by layering dough and butter, creating hundreds of delicate layers that expand when baked. Many home cooks enjoy experimenting with toppings such as prosciutto, roasted cherry tomatoes, or lemon zest to elevate the flavor further.

FAQ about Asparagus Ricotta Tart Recipe