Is there anything more comforting than the warm, earthy flavors of fall? A crisp autumnal evening seems to beg for a hearty meal that fills the home with a delicious aroma. This Butternut Squash And Mushroom Tart fits the bill perfectly. But why stop at taste and aroma, when this tart is also a feast for the eyes? Much like a painter’s palette brimming with colors, this tart is a beautiful blend of the vibrant orange of butternut squash, the earthy brown of mushrooms, and the creamy white of goat cheese.
Imagine, if you will, biting into a slice of this tart. The rich, sweet squash melds beautifully with the slightly tangy cheese, while the mushrooms add a lovely textural contrast. Sounds enticing, doesn’t it? Well, why imagine when you can bake this tart in your own kitchen and experience these flavors firsthand? The process is as enjoyable as the end result, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
The Magic of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that brings a touch of sweetness to any dish. This recipe utilizes its signature flavor and marries it with the earthiness of mushrooms. Apart from its delightful taste, butternut squash is also packed with vitamins and minerals, making this tart not only indulgent but nutritious as well.
As for preparing the butternut squash, it’s simple. All you need to do is peel and dice it into small cubes, ensuring they’re cooked evenly in the oven. You’ll also want to save the seeds; when roasted, they add an extra layer of crunch to the dish that complements the creamy interior.
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
The choice of mushrooms can dramatically alter the flavor profile of your tart. I prefer using a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms. The cremini mushrooms have a meaty texture and a rich flavor, while the shiitake mushrooms add a smoky, aromatic dimension that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the squash.
When preparing your mushrooms, remember to clean them well and slice thinly. This way, they cook evenly and integrate seamlessly with the other ingredients in your tart, creating a uniform and delicious slice every time.
Bringing It All Together
The process of creating this tart is an enjoyable journey. It starts with a simple, homemade tart crust. Nothing beats the taste and texture of homemade crust – it’s flaky, buttery, and just the right amount of crispy. The filling is equally as simple, combining the roasted butternut squash and sautéed mushrooms with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs.
Once everything comes together, the tart goes into the oven where it bakes to golden perfection. The result is a hearty tart with a rich and creamy filling, encased within a beautifully crisp crust. It’s a wonderful dish to serve at any fall gathering, or simply to enjoy at home on a cozy evening.
Ingredients
- 1 buttery tart crust
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (cremini and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
- 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and prepare your tart crust.
- Peel and dice the butternut squash into small cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the preheated oven until tender.
- While the squash is roasting, sauté the mushrooms in a skillet with a bit of oil until they are tender and browned.
- Once the squash and mushrooms are ready, spread them evenly over the tart crust. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese on top.
- Bake the tart in the oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is slightly melted. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Tips for Butternut Squash And Mushroom Tart
For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon. Also, remember to save and roast the seeds from the squash – they make a crunchy, delicious garnish. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feel free to substitute with feta or ricotta.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Butternut Squash and Mushroom Tart is the epitome of comfort food. It perfectly captures the essence of fall with its warm, earthy flavors. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet squash, earthy mushroom, and tangy cheese. The addition of fresh herbs adds a burst of freshness that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress family and guests alike.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 250 kcal per slice