Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Explore the savory side of baking with these single serving and super satisfying Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets. They’re perfect for parties, appetizers, or a delightful snack. Featuring a buttery crust and a creamy filling topped with earthy olives, these tartlets are sure to impress guests and family alike. Their balanced flavors make them a versatile choice for many occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: These tartlets require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of goat cheese, herbs, and olives creates a deliciously rich taste that will leave everyone asking for more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a dinner party, picnic, or casual gathering, these tartlets fit right in with any menu.
• Customizable Topping: You can switch up the toppings based on your preferences, adding different herbs or vegetables if desired.
• Single Serving Delight: Ideal for portion control, each tartlet is a perfect individual serving that’s both beautiful and tasty.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• Tartlet pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool saves time by quickly combining ingredients for the crust and filling.
• Rolling pin: It helps in rolling out the dough evenly for perfect tartlet bases.
• Tartlet pans: These pans give your tartlets their shape and ensure they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to prepare different components without mixing flavors prematurely.

Ingredients

Explore the savory side of baking with these single serving and super satisfying Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets. They’ve got all of the right moves; buttery crusts, creamy dreamy filling, and an earthy and elegant topping.

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
• 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 Olives, 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 teaspoons chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoons chopped chives
• lemon zest & herbs for decoration

How to Make Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add cold butter cubes and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolk and heavy cream. Gradually add to flour mixture until dough forms.
4. Press dough into disc shape, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat goat cheese until smooth.
2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream along with lemon zest from one lemon.
3. Stir in chopped parsley, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble Tartlets

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
3. Cut out circles to fit your tartlet pans and press into pans firmly.
4. Spoon goat cheese filling into each crust evenly.

Step 4: Prepare Olive Topping

1. In a bowl, mix olives with olive oil, crushed garlic, lemon juice & zest from one lemon.
2. Season with salt and pepper; fold in chopped parsley and chives.

Step 5: Bake

1. Top each filled tartlet with olive mixture.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Let cool slightly before serving; garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets as an elegant addition to your next gathering!

How to Serve Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets are perfect for any gathering or as a delightful snack. Their rich flavors and elegant presentation make them a great addition to various occasions.

For a Casual Lunch

• Pair with a Salad: Serve these tartlets alongside a fresh mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Add Some Fruit: Complement the savory taste with slices of sweet seasonal fruits, such as pears or apples, for a refreshing contrast.

At a Cocktail Party

• Accompany with Wine: Offer these tartlets with an assortment of non-alcoholic drinks, like sparkling water infused with citrus to keep it light.
• Serve on a Platter: Arrange the tartlets on a beautiful serving platter garnished with herbs for an appealing visual touch.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include Savory Muffins: Add some cheesy or herby muffins to the table to provide variety and enhance the brunch experience.
• Offer Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries in small cups for a sweet yet healthy option that pairs well.

How to Perfect Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

To ensure your Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets turn out exquisite every time, follow these simple tips.

• Boldly Chill Your Dough: Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
• Boldly Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh goat cheese and high-quality olives. The flavor will significantly enhance your tartlets.
• Boldly Pre-Bake the Crusts: Blind bake your crusts until golden before adding the filling. This ensures they stay crisp and don’t become soggy.
• Boldly Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added depth in flavor.
• Boldly Add Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into both the filling and olive topping for an extra layer of brightness.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

These Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance their flavors while providing balance.

1. Bold Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs offers earthy flavors that pair well.
2. Bold Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds texture and nutrition.
3. Bold Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic glaze brings an elegant touch to your meal.
4. Bold Hummus Dip: Serve with assorted pita chips or vegetable sticks; hummus adds creaminess and complements the tartlet’s flavors.
5. Bold Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a crunchy contrast that is always a hit.
6. Bold Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served warm enhances the overall dining experience while offering rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets can be delightful, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the chill: Not chilling your dough can lead to tough crusts. Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Overmixing the filling: Overmixing can make the filling too dense. Mix just until combined for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland tartlets. Taste your filling and adjust seasoning as needed before baking.
• Not pre-baking the crust: Failing to pre-bake can lead to soggy bottoms. Pre-bake the crust until lightly golden for best results.
• Using warm ingredients: Warm ingredients can affect the texture of the tartlet dough. Ensure all ingredients are cold, especially butter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

• Wrap individual tartlets tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place tartlets on a baking sheet, and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds. Be cautious as this may make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets that might help you out.

Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cream cheese or feta cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets?

Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or basil, or mix in diced vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

What can I serve with Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets?

These tartlets pair well with salads, soups, or as part of a charcuterie board for gatherings.

Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and filling separately and assemble them shortly before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Herby Olive Goat Cheese Tartlets are not just tasty but also versatile. They make a great appetizer or snack for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or toppings to suit your taste!