There’s nothing quite like the delightful crunch of a perfectly baked pastry that bursts with flavor at the first bite. After a busy week, I often find myself craving something light yet satisfying, and that’s where my caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets recipe comes into play. It’s a dish that marries rich, creamy cheese with sweet, aromatic chutney and a refreshing crunch from a vibrant celery salad—perfect for serving as a chic appetizer or a light lunch.
Last Saturday, just as the sun was setting, the kitchen filled with an irresistible scent that drew my family like bees to honey. The simplicity of the preparation was a pleasant surprise; in just 15 minutes, I had created a meal that looked and tasted gourmet, yet didn’t require hours of labor. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself, these tartlets promise a flair that will leave everyone impressed and satisfied. Get ready to elevate your weekday dinner with an effortless yet elegant touch!
Why is this caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets recipe a must-try?
Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes in the oven, you’ll have stunning tartlets that look like they came from a fancy bistro.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet caramelised onions pair perfectly with the creamy goat cheese, creating a delightful taste that captivates every palate.
Textural Delight: The buttery puff pastry crust offers a satisfying crunch, beautifully complemented by a crunchy celery salad for a refreshing contrast.
Impressive Presentation: Serve these tartlets at gatherings, and your friends will be amazed at your culinary prowess without the fuss!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a light lunch or an elegant appetizer, this dish is versatile enough to shine on any table!
To explore more delicious options that complement this dish, check out our easy homemade salads.
Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets Ingredients
For the Tartlets
• M&S handcrafted all-butter puff pastry – this pastry ensures a flaky, buttery base for your tartlets.
• M&S ripened goat’s cheese – its creamy texture adds richness and depth to each bite.
• M&S caramelised red onion chutney – use this delicious chutney for a sweet and savory layer of flavor.
• M&S free-range mixed size egg, beaten – a wash for the pastry to give a beautiful golden glow.
• M&S fresh thyme – this herb adds a fragrant note that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese.
For the Celery Salad
• M&S Remarksable Value celery sticks – fresh and crisp, they provide a refreshing crunch.
• M&S pitted dates – their natural sweetness balances the dish perfectly.
• M&S blanched hazelnuts – these add a delightful nutty flavor and extra texture.
• M&S free-range lemon juice – a splash of acidity that brightens up the salad.
• Olive oil – this rich oil ties the salad together and enhances its flavors.
• M&S watercress – toss this in just before serving for a peppery freshness.
How to Make Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets
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Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. This crucial step ensures your tartlets bake evenly to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish everyone loves.
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Prepare the pastry by unrolling the sheet and cutting it into four rectangles. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready to become your delicious tartlet base.
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Score a line 2.5cm from the edge of each rectangle to form a border. Prick the inner rectangle all over with a fork; this will help it rise beautifully.
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Cut the goat’s cheese in half width-wise, creating four half-moon shapes, and set them aside.
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Spread the caramelised red onion chutney onto each inner rectangle of pastry. Top each with a half-moon of goat’s cheese, making sure it’s centered and ready for the oven!
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Brush the pastry border with the beaten egg. This step will give your tartlets a glorious, glossy finish after baking.
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Bake the tartlets in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up nicely.
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While the tartlets are baking, make the salad by adding the sliced celery, chopped dates, hazelnuts, lemon juice, and olive oil to a mixing bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
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Toss the watercress through the celery salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
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Serve the warm tartlets topped with a sprinkle of thyme, alongside the refreshing celery salad. Your friends and family will be delighted with every bite!
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Caramelised Onion Variations
There’s something wonderfully personal about making a recipe your own, and these caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets are no exception!
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Herb-Infused: Substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or basil for a different aroma and taste twist. These herbs will lend a fragrant touch that delights the senses.
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Nutty Boost: Swap hazelnuts for walnuts or pecans to enhance the nutty flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique crunch, creating an exciting textural experience.
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Sweet Surprise: Add chopped apple or pear alongside the dates for an unexpected sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
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Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the salad for a gentle heat that will wake up your palate. It’s a simple addition that can make a big difference!
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Creamy Twist: Swap goat cheese with feta or ricotta for a slightly different creaminess. Each cheese has a unique character that can change the whole vibe of the tartlets.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace caramelised onion chutney with a homemade vegetable pesto for a fresh, herby take that is equally decadent.
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Low-Carb Option: Opt for a cauliflower crust instead of puff pastry for a lighter, gluten-free alternative that still provides that satisfying crunch.
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Gourmet Finish: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the tartlets just before serving. This adds a sweet depth that balances beautifully with the tangy goat cheese.
What to Serve With Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets?
Create a delightful spread that complements the rich flavors of your tartlets and enhances your dining experience.
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette add a bright contrast, enhancing the overall freshness of the meal.
- Savory Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa with herbs provides a hearty side that balances the creamy tartlets perfectly. The textures truly harmonize in every bite.
- Roasted Beetroot: Earthy roasted beets add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, creating an appealing plate. The flavors intertwine beautifully with the goat’s cheese.
- Herb-Infused Couscous: Fluffy couscous with fresh herbs offers lightness, making it a wonderful companion to the rich tartlets. Serve it warm for a comforting touch.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and light, a glass of sparking water with a hint of lemon cleanses the palate and keeps the meal balanced.
- Chocolate Ganache Tart: For dessert, a rich chocolate tart adds an indulgent finish that brilliantly contrasts the savory flavors of your first course. It’s a sweet ending everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, store uneaten tartlets at room temperature for up to 2 hours to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked tartlets. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-friendly bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the tartlets from frozen at 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6 for about 20 minutes, allowing them to become golden and crispy once again—a delightful way to enjoy your caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets are fantastic for meal prep and can save you time on busy nights! You can prepare the tartlet bases (without toppings) up to 24 hours in advance; just cut and score the pastry, then refrigerate them covered with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. The caramelised onion chutney can also be spread on the pastry up to 3 days ahead—just keep the prepared pastry in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the cheese, brush with egg, bake for 15 minutes, and whip up the salad while they cool. This way, you still enjoy that delectable crunch and flavor without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh goat cheese and vegetables. This enhances the flavor of your caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets recipe and ensures maximum freshness.
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Avoid Soggy Pastry: Pricking the inner rectangle of the pastry helps prevent it from becoming soggy during baking. This crucial step will keep your tartlets crispy!
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Proper Chutney Layer: Don’t skimp on the caramelised red onion chutney. A generous layer intensifies the sweetness and serves as a perfect base for the goat cheese.
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Egg Wash for Shine: Make sure to brush the pastry border with beaten egg thoroughly. This step gives your tartlets a beautiful golden crust and enhances their presentation.
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Timing is Key: Keep a close eye on your tartlets as they bake. Since ovens can vary, check for that golden-brown color at the 12-minute mark to avoid any over-baking.
Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets Recipe FAQs
What type of puff pastry should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using M&S handcrafted all-butter puff pastry for its flaky texture and rich flavor. It’s perfect for achieving a golden, crisp crust that holds up beautifully under the caramelised onion and goat’s cheese filling.
How should I store leftover tartlets?
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. However, for the best taste and texture, I suggest enjoying them fresh if possible!
Can I freeze the tartlets before baking?
Absolutely! To freeze the unbaked tartlets, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-friendly bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. To bake, simply put them directly in a preheated oven at 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6 for about 20 minutes—no need to thaw them beforehand!
What should I do if my pastry becomes soggy?
To prevent soggy pastry, make sure to prick the inner rectangle with a fork before baking. This step allows steam to escape and keeps the bottom crispy. If you still find your pastry soggy, try changing oven temperatures or baking for a little longer until you achieve that desirable golden color.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! This caramelised onion and goat’s cheese tartlets recipe is already vegetarian. However, make sure to check that the goat cheese you use does not contain any animal rennet if you’re catering to strict vegetarians.
How can I enhance the flavor of the celery salad?
To elevate the salad, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness, or toss in diced apples or pears for a fruity contrast. It’ll add an exciting twist that pairs wonderfully with the tartlets!
Irresistible Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tartlets Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6.
- Prepare the pastry by unrolling the sheet and cutting it into four rectangles.
- Score a line 2.5cm from the edge of each rectangle to form a border.
- Prick the inner rectangle all over with a fork.
- Cut the goat's cheese in half width-wise, creating four half-moon shapes.
- Spread the caramelised red onion chutney onto each inner rectangle of pastry.
- Top each with a half-moon of goat's cheese.
- Brush the pastry border with the beaten egg.
- Bake the tartlets in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
- While the tartlets are baking, make the salad by adding the sliced celery, chopped dates, hazelnuts, lemon juice, and olive oil to a mixing bowl.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the watercress through the celery salad just before serving.
- Serve the warm tartlets topped with a sprinkle of thyme, alongside the refreshing celery salad.