Goat Cheese Tomato Tarts - An Elegant Appetizer

Searching for an easy yet impressive appetizer to serve at your next dinner party? Look no further than these beautiful goat cheese tomato tarts! Flaky pastry shells filled with creamy goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil make an elegant starter with little effort involved.

What are Goat Cheese Tomato Tarts?

Goat cheese tomato tarts feature a crispy pastry crust filled with a savory, slightly sweet mixture of ingredients. The tangy goat cheese is balanced by the rich, concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil.

Served warm or at room temperature, these mini vegetarian tarts make a sophisticated addition to any appetizer spread. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to delight guests.

Benefits of Goat Cheese Tomato Tarts

Some of the best things about these appetizer tarts are:

• Textural contrast of flaky crust and creamy filling
• Well-balanced medley of savory flavors
• Vegetarian appetizer choice
• Easy to make ahead
• Elegant presentation

Let's get started making these showstopping tarts!

Ingredients

These mini tarts require just a few simple ingredients:

• Goat cheese
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Fresh basil
• Parmesan cheese
• Phyllo dough
• Olive oil

See the detailed recipe below for precise measurements and preparation instructions. It's so easy!

Step-by-Step Recipe

Make the Filling

Mix together softened goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, basil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until well combined.

Assemble the Tarts

Brush phyllo shells with olive oil. Add a dollop of filling to each. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until browned and crispy.

Garnish and Serve

Cool tarts slightly, then garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Presenting the Tarts

These appetizer tarts can be served:

• As passed hors d'oeuvres on decorative platters
• Arranged on a tiered stand for dramatic effect
• Plated individually as a starter course
• Garnished with fresh herbs, edible flowers, etc.

However you choose to present them, they'll add an elegant touch to your event!

Storing and Freezing

To make ahead:

• Assemble unbaked tarts up to 24 hours in advance, store chilled.
• Bake just before serving for fresh, crisp tarts.
• Leftovers keep, covered, in fridge up to 4 days.

Reheat briefly before serving to restore crispness.

Recipe Variations

Some easy ways to adapt these appetizer tarts:

• Use brie, feta, or bleu cheese instead of goat cheese.
• Substitute sundried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or caramelized onions.
• Add spices like paprika, cumin or smoked paprika to the filling.
• Top with nuts, seeds, or microgreens before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the unbaked tarts up to 1 day in advance and store chilled until ready to bake.

What size phyllo shells should I use?

Bite-sized shells about 3 inches wide work best for proportion and presentation.

Can I freeze the baked tarts?

Baked tarts can be frozen up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

What vegetarian fillings can I use?

Try different cheeses, roasted veggies, caramelized onions, pesto, tapenades, or olive mixes.

Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo?

Phyllo provides a nice crisp, flaky shell. But puff pastry can also substitute.

Impress Guests with Gorgeous Goat Cheese Tomato Tarts

These elegant little tarts truly wow guests with flavor and presentation while being easy to assemble. Make the filling in advance, then simply fill and bake the shells right before your event. Garnish them with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color. Enjoy this appetizer hit!