Imagine a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors all wrapped into one irresistible dish—this Strawberry, Feta & Thyme Tart Recipe is exactly that. It’s a stunning tart that balances juicy strawberries with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese and the fresh earthiness of thyme, all encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry. This tart is perfect for impressing friends at brunch or savoring a special treat any time you want a really memorable bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this tart is simple yet essential, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that make the dish truly shine. From the sweet and tangy strawberries to the aromatic thyme, every component plays its part in creating a harmonious balance.
- Strawberries, 2 cups sliced: Sweet, juicy base that brings freshness and vibrant color to the tart.
- Puff Pastry, 1 sheet: The crisp and flaky crust that provides the perfect buttery foundation.
- Feta Cheese, 1 cup crumbled: Adds creamy, salty contrast that elevates the sweetness of the fruit.
- Thyme, 1 tbsp fresh leaves: Offers earthy, aromatic notes that add depth and a touch of herbal brightness.
- Honey, 2 tbsp: Enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries and adds a glossy finish.
- Lemon, 1 (zest and 1 tbsp juice): Brightens the flavors with citrusy tang and cuts through the richness.
- Egg, 1 beaten: Used to brush the pastry edges for a gorgeous golden color and shine.
How to Make Strawberry, Feta & Thyme Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Tray
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. This step ensures even cooking and an easy clean-up, so you’re set for a smooth baking experience right from the start.
Step 2: Toss Strawberries with Honey and Lemon
In a bowl, gently combine the sliced strawberries with honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This mix enhances the strawberries’ sweetness and adds a lively citrus punch that perfectly complements the feta’s saltiness later on.
Step 3: Score the Puff Pastry Edges
Lay the puff pastry sheet onto your prepared baking tray and carefully score a 1-inch border around the edges. This creates a neat rustic edge that will puff up beautifully, keeping all those delicious toppings secured in the center.
Step 4: Layer Strawberries, Feta, and Thyme
Within the scored border, thoughtfully arrange the honey-lemon coated strawberries. Then sprinkle on the crumbled feta cheese and scatter fresh thyme leaves over the top. This layering is where the magic happens, blending sweet, salty, and herbal flavors that your taste buds will adore.
Step 5: Brush Edges and Bake
Brush the exposed edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. This will give your tart that irresistible golden glow. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown, filling your kitchen with an amazing aroma.
Step 6: Add a Final Touch of Honey
As soon as the tart comes out of the oven, drizzle a little extra honey over the warm surface. This final step adds a beautiful shine and a gentle sweetness that ties all the flavors together effortlessly.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once slightly cooled, slice your tart into portions. It tastes fantastic warm or at room temperature, making it flexible for any time you want to enjoy this stunning dish.
How to Serve Strawberry, Feta & Thyme Tart Recipe
Garnishes
To dress up your tart, sprinkle a few fresh thyme sprigs on top just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar or some lemon zest can also add a lovely visual and flavor boost, making every bite a feast for the senses.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance the sweetness and richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a light soup to round out your spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the tart on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra feta and honey nearby for guests to customize their slices. Alternatively, cut it into bite-sized squares to serve as elegant finger food at a summer party or brunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover tart covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days and retains much of its delightful texture and flavor when properly stored.
Freezing
This tart is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm briefly in the oven to refresh the flaky crust.
Reheating
Reheat leftover tart in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispiness. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the puff pastry from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it according to package instructions before you begin. Using frozen puff pastry makes this tart even easier to prepare without compromising texture or flavor.
Is it possible to substitute feta cheese with another cheese?
Yes, but keep in mind that feta’s salty tang and crumbly texture are key to balancing the sweetness. Goat cheese is a great alternative that offers a creamy and slightly tangy flavor.
Can I prepare this tart in advance?
You can assemble the tart up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme? Can I use dried?
Fresh thyme is preferred for its bright aroma, but if you only have dried thyme, use about one-third the amount, as it’s more concentrated. Sprinkle it lightly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
How do I make the tart less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can lower the amount of honey or use a less sweet variety of strawberries. Adding a pinch of black pepper or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving can also add complexity without extra sugar.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry, Feta & Thyme Tart Recipe is truly one of those dishes that surprise you with every bite. From its flaky crust to the perfect dance of sweet, salty, and herbal flavors, it’s a tart that feels both special and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe is definitely worth making—and sharing!
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Strawberry, Feta & Thyme Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry, Feta & Thyme Tart is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors all nestled in a flaky puff pastry crust. Juicy strawberries are tossed with honey and lemon, topped with creamy feta and fragrant thyme, then baked to golden perfection. It makes a perfect appetizer or light dessert, balancing fresh fruitiness with salty cheese and herbal notes.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 lemon, zest and 1 tbsp juice
Pastry & Toppings
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Marinate Strawberries: In a bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice to meld flavors and add a bright, sweet tang.
- Prepare Pastry Base: Lay the puff pastry sheet on the lined baking tray and lightly score a 1-inch border around the edges without cutting all the way through, to create a defined crust edge after baking.
- Assemble Tart: Arrange the honey-lemon-coated strawberries evenly inside the scored border. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the strawberries, then scatter fresh thyme leaves on top to introduce earthy, aromatic notes.
- Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the exposed border of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to create a golden, glossy finish. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Finish with Honey Drizzle: Remove the tart from the oven and while still warm, drizzle a bit of extra honey over the strawberries to enhance their sweetness and give a beautiful shine to the tart.
- Serve: Slice the tart and serve warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to fully develop and the texture to remain crisp and flaky.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best sweetness and juiciness.
- You can substitute thyme with other fresh herbs like basil or mint for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure not to cut through the border when scoring the pastry to maintain a raised edge during baking.
- This tart is best served the same day but can be enjoyed at room temperature if made ahead.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
