Cool Asparagus Tart: A Delicious and Nutritious Vegan & Vegetarian Delight
If you’re in search of a quick and satisfying dish that combines the earthy flavor of asparagus with the richness of eggs and cheese, look no further than this Cool Asparagus Tart. This simple yet flavorful tart is perfect for a light meal or a snack, and it’s so easy to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely brunches. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish also offers a delightful combination of textures, with the crisp asparagus and the smooth, cheesy topping.
This recipe is also flexible—while it’s designed with whole eggs and cheese, you can always swap these for plant-based alternatives to make it vegan-friendly. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions for making this delightful tart!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Whole eggs | 4 |
| Garlic clove, chopped | 1 |
| Salt and pepper to taste | To taste |
| Asparagus spears, woody ends removed | 20 spears |
| Cheddar cheese, grated | 1 cup |
| Walnuts, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation:
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the tart will bake evenly once assembled. -
Prepare the Pie Dish:
Lightly grease a pie dish with butter to prevent the tart from sticking and to add a bit of extra flavor to the crust. -
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a small bowl, crack the eggs and add the chopped garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork to beat the eggs and garlic together until fully combined. -
Assemble the Tart:
Pour the beaten egg mixture into the greased pie dish, ensuring the base is evenly covered. This will form the foundation for the asparagus and cheese. -
Arrange the Asparagus:
Lay the asparagus spears onto the egg mixture in a single row, aligning them neatly. This creates a visually appealing design and ensures each bite has a bit of asparagus. -
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the asparagus. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, forming a creamy, savory topping. -
Bake the Tart:
Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the eggs are set. The asparagus should be tender but still slightly crisp. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the tart is out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top for an added crunch and a hint of nuttiness. -
Enjoy!
Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before serving. The rich, savory flavor of the cheese and eggs pairs perfectly with the fresh asparagus and the crunch of walnuts.
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 tart) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Fat | 10.0g |
| Carbohydrates | 5.0g |
| Protein | 12.0g |
Dietary Preferences and Allergen Information:
- Dietary Preference: Vegetarian
- Allergen Information: Contains eggs and dairy (cheddar cheese).
- For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a plant-based egg alternative and the cheese with a vegan cheese of your choice.
- Walnuts are included as an optional topping, adding a lovely crunch and healthy fats, but can be omitted if you have nut allergies.
Additional Advice:
- If you’re looking to add a little more flavor to the tart, you can experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to sprinkle over the eggs before baking.
- This tart pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad for a light, refreshing meal. Try adding a vinaigrette with a squeeze of lemon to balance out the richness of the egg and cheese.
Conclusion:
This Cool Asparagus Tart is an easy and satisfying recipe that showcases the versatility of vegetables like asparagus, which is packed with vitamins and fiber. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re in need of a quick lunch or a savory snack, this tart offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will leave you coming back for more.
Enjoy this simple yet elegant tart at your next meal gathering or as a weekday treat!
