Description
This vibrant Leek, Goat’s Cheese, Walnut & Lemon Tart combines the earthy sweetness of leeks with tangy goat’s cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a refreshing hint of lemon zest and juice. Baked on a golden puff pastry base, this tart is perfect as a light lunch or an elegant starter, balancing creamy, nutty, and citrus flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 25g butter
- 2 medium leeks, sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped thyme leaves
- Zest of 2 lemons and juice of 1 lemon
For the Tart Base and Topping
- 375g pack ready-rolled puff pastry
- 200g soft spreadable goat’s cheese
- 50g walnut pieces
- Little chopped parsley, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the leeks: Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas mark 7. Place a large frying pan on medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil and 25g butter. Once the butter is sizzling, add the sliced leeks. Cook gently until the leeks become soft but do not brown.
- Add flavorings: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped thyme leaves and half of the lemon zest. Increase the heat slightly and add the juice of one lemon. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds, allowing the lemon juice to reduce and intensify the flavors. Season well with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the pastry base: Unroll the 375g of ready-rolled puff pastry and place it on a baking sheet lined with baking parchment. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a 1cm border around the edges, being careful not to cut all the way through. Prick the base inside the border thoroughly with a fork to prevent it from puffing up unevenly.
- Assemble the tart: Spread the lemony leek mixture evenly on the pastry, staying within the scored border. Crumble the 200g of soft goat’s cheese over the leeks, then scatter 50g walnut pieces on top. Season with freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the filling and brush the exposed pastry edges lightly with olive oil.
- Bake the tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the puff pastry has puffed up around the edges and turned a golden brown color.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and the remaining lemon zest for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- The tart can be served hot, warm, or cooled, making it versatile for different occasions.
- For extra crunch, you can toast the walnuts lightly before scattering them on the tart.
- Ready-rolled puff pastry saves time, but homemade pastry can be used for a more decadent result.
- Adjust seasoning after cooking since lemon juice adds tanginess.
- This tart pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a light white wine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Tart
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: Leek tart, goat cheese tart, walnut tart, lemon tart, puff pastry tart, vegetarian tart, savory tart, easy tart recipe
