This elegant grilled asparagus tart with crème fraîche and Gruyère is the perfect spring-inspired appetizer or light lunch—flaky, creamy, and full of fresh flavor.
There’s something undeniably elegant about an asparagus tart—and this one, made with creamy crème fraîche, nutty Gruyère, and golden, flaky puff pastry, is as delicious as it is beautiful. It’s the perfect way to celebrate spring and a fantastic option for your Easter brunch, light lunch, or even a simple weeknight dinner paired with a green salad.
This tart comes together effortlessly thanks to store-bought puff pastry, one of my favorite kitchen shortcuts. Just remember to thaw it ahead of time—about 30 minutes at room temperature if frozen, or keep it chilled in the fridge if using the refrigerated kind. Rolling it out slightly helps create that light, crisp base that puffs up beautifully in the oven.
When it comes to asparagus, look for thin, vibrant green spears with tightly closed tips. To prep them, rinse well under cool water and gently bend each spear—it will naturally snap at the point where the tough end begins. Alternatively, you can trim about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the bottom. I like to give them a quick toss in olive oil and a quick char on the grill pan before baking—it brings out a slightly smoky, sweet flavor that takes this tart to the next level.
The filling is simple but flavorful: crème fraîche, Gruyère, a touch of Parmesan, lemon zest, and herbs. It’s rich and tangy with just enough brightness to complement the asparagus without overpowering it. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs—think thyme, chives, or even a touch of dill.
Want to change it up? Try adding crispy prosciutto on top for a salty, savory twist that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and tender asparagus. To make it, simply lay thin slices of prosciutto on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until crisp. Let them cool, then break into pieces and scatter over the tart just before serving. It adds a delicious crunch and a hit of umami that takes this simple tart to the next level—perfect if you’re serving it as part of a brunch spread or want to impress with minimal effort.
Baking tip: Lightly score a border around your pastry and prick the center with a fork—this keeps the edges puffed and crisp while the center stays flat to hold the creamy filling and asparagus. Bake until deep golden brown and crisp, and serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Leftovers? If you have any, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to bring back that flaky crispness (avoid the microwave, which can make the pastry soggy).
Whether you serve it sliced into squares for an appetizer or alongside a salad for lunch or dinner, this asparagus tart is a showstopper—fresh, flavorful, and just the thing to welcome spring to your table.
Other appetizer or brunch recipes you might like:
Caramelized Figs and Goat Cheese Crostini
Italian Bruschetta with Burrata Cheese
Caprese-Style Savory French Toasts
Frittata Roll Ups Stuffed with Spinach and Ricotta (Rotoli di Frittata)
Zucchini Pancakes
Baked Eggs in Tomato Sauce (Uova alla Contadina)
Savory Tart With Artichoke Hearts
Mushroom, Potato and Fontina Quiche
Crispy and Light Potato-Spinach Tart
Egg and Pancetta on Toasted and Bread Cups
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