Grandma Elsie's Sunshine-Kissed Asparagus Tart: A Springtime Celebration

The wind was just starting to warm, carrying the scent of damp earth and the promise of new growth. I remember Grandma Elsie, her hands gnarled but gentle, guiding me through her asparagus patch. Rows of vibrant green spears shot up from the soil, reaching for the sun. We’d snap them off at the base, the stalks squeaking softly, filling our baskets with the verdant bounty of spring. The air vibrated with the buzzing of bees, drunk on the nectar of early blossoms. That day, we didn’t just harvest asparagus; we harvested sunshine and the sweet anticipation of a season reborn. This tart, inspired by her, is a taste of that memory.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sunshine-Kissed Asparagus Tart is pure springtime bliss. It’s simple, showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh asparagus, and uses pantry staples you likely already have. The creamy filling complements the tender asparagus beautifully, all nestled in a flaky, golden crust. It's a delicious celebration of the season.

Ingredients List

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend, if preferred)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• ¼ cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 pound thick, tender asparagus spears, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional: A sprinkle of Everything Bagel Seasoning for the crust before baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let's bring this springtime delight to life, one step at a time.

1. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Flatten into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Asparagus: While the dough is chilling, prepare the asparagus. Snap off the tough ends of the spears and slice them into 1-inch pieces, leaving the tips whole.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough. Crimp the edges of the crust for a decorative touch.

5. Blind Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and weights, and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.

6. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, dill, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.

7. Assemble the Tart: Arrange the asparagus spears evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked crust. Pour the egg mixture over the asparagus. Sprinkle a bit of Everything Bagel Seasoning for an extra flavour boost.

8. Bake the Tart: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Don't overbake, as the filling can become dry. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Sunshine-Kissed Asparagus Tart warm or at room temperature. A dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a touch of elegance. It's perfect for a spring brunch, a light lunch, or a side dish at dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Closing

Spring is a time of renewal, a reminder of the earth's incredible ability to nourish us. This asparagus tart is a simple yet elegant way to celebrate that bounty. It’s a dish that connects us to the garden, to the seasons, and to the cherished memories of family and tradition. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Perhaps you'll substitute different spring vegetables, like peas or ramps, or add a touch of crumbled goat cheese to the filling. Whatever you do, savor the flavors of spring and share the joy with those you love.