Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Explore the savory side of baking with these single serving and super satisfying Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets. Perfect for parties, brunches, or intimate gatherings, they feature a buttery crust, a creamy filling, and an earthy topping of olives and herbs. These tartlets are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these tartlets are a breeze to make.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich goat cheese paired with zesty lemon and earthy olives creates a delightful flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal paired with a salad.
• Impressive Presentation: Their elegant look makes them ideal for impressing guests at gatherings or special events.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses based on your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you create these Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Tartlet pans
• Zester or grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up mixing the crust ingredients, ensuring a uniform texture.
• Tartlet pans: Helps shape the crust perfectly for individual servings.
• Zester or grater: Ensures you get fine lemon zest for maximum flavor without the bitterness of the pith.

Ingredients

To make Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 ¼ cup all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into ½ cubes

For the Filling

• 8 ounces goat cheese
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 medium lemons, zested and juiced – divided for filling and olive topping
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

For the Topping

• 1 can medium California Ripe Olive, green or black
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice & 1 teaspoon lemon zest – divided
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
• 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon chopped chives
• lemon zest & herbs for decoration

How to Make Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolk and heavy cream. Gradually add this to the flour mixture while pulsing until dough forms.
4. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In another bowl, mix goat cheese with heavy cream until smooth.
2. Stir in lemon zest (for filling), parsley, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble Tartlets

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
3. Use tartlet pans to cut out circles of dough that fit into each pan. Press firmly into place.
4. Spoon goat cheese filling into each pastry shell.

Step 4: Prepare Olive Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix olives with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice (for topping), lemon zest (for topping), salt, pepper, parsley, and chives.
2. Spoon this mixture generously over each filled tartlet.

Step 5: Bake

• Place tartlets in preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until crusts are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

• Allow tartlets to cool slightly before garnishing with additional herbs and lemon zest before serving warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy creating these delightful Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets that will surely be a hit at your next gathering!

How to Serve Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets are delightful appetizers perfect for any gathering. Their rich flavors and elegant presentation make them a standout dish. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your tartlet experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad can balance the richness of the tartlets. Opt for arugula or mixed greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with a Dipping Sauce

• Consider offering a side of balsamic reduction or a zesty lemon aioli. These add an extra layer of flavor that complements the tartlets beautifully.

Accompany with Cheese Platter

• A cheese platter featuring assorted cheeses, nuts, and fruits pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the tartlets. This creates a well-rounded tasting experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling additional fresh herbs like basil or thyme on top of each tartlet adds a pop of color and enhances the herbal flavor profile.

Ideal Wine Pairings

• While wine is not included in this recipe, sparkling water with a slice of lemon can be an excellent non-alcoholic pairing that refreshes the palate.

How to Perfect Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

To achieve the best results with your Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets, consider these helpful tips:

• Use cold butter – Ensure your butter is very cold when making the crust. This helps create flaky layers in your tartlet shells.
• Don’t overmix dough – Mix your dough just until combined to prevent tough crusts. The goal is a tender and crumbly texture.
• Chill before baking – Allow your assembled tartlet shells to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes prior to baking. This helps maintain their shape.
• Test doneness visually – Look for golden brown edges on your tartlet crusts as an indicator of doneness instead of relying solely on baking time.
• Experiment with fillings – Feel free to explore different herbs or add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes for variation in flavor.
• Serve warm – For the best taste and texture, serve these tartlets warm out of the oven or let them cool slightly before enjoying.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets can be complemented by several delicious side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini provide a colorful and healthy addition to your plate.
2. Garlic Bread – Crusty garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling of the tartlets.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs can serve as another delightful finger food option.
4. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create fresh bites that pair well.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta can act as a wholesome side dish.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy provide a comforting side that complements savory flavors perfectly.
7. Fruit Platter – An assortment of fresh fruits adds sweetness and balances out the savory elements of the tartlet dish nicely.
8. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs provides a light yet flavorful side that enhances your meal without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Bold Flavor Choices: Using bland or low-quality olives can ruin the tartlets’ taste. Opt for high-quality California Ripe Olives for a burst of flavor.
• Incorrect Dough Consistency: If your dough is too dry, the tartlets won’t hold shape. Ensure you measure flour accurately and add cream gradually until you achieve a pliable texture.
• Overbaking Tartlets: Baking them too long can lead to burnt edges. Keep an eye on them and remove when golden brown for best results.
• Ignoring Temperature: Ingredients, especially butter, should be cold for a flaky crust. Don’t let the butter sit out too long before mixing it into the dough.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your goat cheese mixture properly will lead to bland tartlets. Taste and adjust seasoning before filling the crusts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These tartlets can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

• Wrap each tartlet individually in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time, checking regularly to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets.

What is the best way to serve Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets?

Serve them warm as appetizers or snacks. They pair well with a fresh salad or alongside dips.

Can I customize my Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or basil, or swap in different cheeses such as feta or ricotta for unique flavors.

How do I prevent my tartlet crust from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy crusts, pre-bake your tartlet shells until they’re lightly golden before adding the filling.

Are there any alternatives to goat cheese in this recipe?

Yes! Cream cheese or ricotta can be used as substitutes if you’re looking for a different taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

These Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets are not just delicious but also highly versatile. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they allow you to customize flavors according to your preference. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and toppings!