When it comes to hosting a party or preparing for a festive picnic, the quest for the perfect bite-sized snack is on. And these Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets are the frontrunner. Rich, crispy, and super easy to make, this is one picnic appetizer you do not want to miss out on.
Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets
Imagine this: you’re planning an elegant soirée or a casual get-together with friends, and you want to delight your guests with a flavorful yet healthy treat. Butternut squash and feta tartlets are just the right combination of savory and sweet, wrapped up in a flaky pastry that’s perfect for any occasion.
Let’s dig in to how you go about whipping up these delectable tartlets, check out some variations and go over some visual tricks to enhance their appeal, and shed light on the nutritional benefits that make them as good for your body as they are for your taste buds.
If you want to capture the essence of autumn in a single bite or offer party-goers a healthy and indulgent appetizer, this is your new go-to party snack that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients to Make Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets
To make a batch of Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets, you will need the following:
For the dough:
- 5.6 oz (1 ¼ cup) all purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp water (more if needed)
For the filling:
- 1 cup butternut squash
- 3 tbsp parsley
- ¼ cup feta cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How to Make Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets
In a food processor place the flour, sugar, salt and butter, process for a few minutes then add the white vinegar and the water. Process the ingredients until you get a dough. Wrap the dough in a plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour.
Roll the dough using a rolling pin and cut circles using the top part of a glass. Place the circles into a previously greased muffin mold and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Cut the squash into cubes, place it in a baking sheet prepared with baking paper at the same temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until it gets soft.
Chop the parsley and place it in a big bowl together with the previously prepared squash and crumbled feta cheese. Add the olive oil inside and stir with a spoon. Fill the previously baked cups with 1-2 tbsp of the filling.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Ingredient Options
If you want to mix things up, consider these ingredient swaps:
- Use goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a sharper flavor.
- Add a handful of spinach for an earthy undertone and a burst of color.
- Incorporate caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness to balance out the other flavors.
- Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the top for a rich, tangy finish.
- For a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before serving.
- Swap butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a different sweet and savory profile.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage for a unique flavor twist.
Occasion and Setting
These tartlets are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to any event. Serving a large crowd? Double the batch! Planning an intimate dinner party? Make them a bit larger and serve two per person. The individual portions make for a perfect canape at a cocktail party or even as a standout dish at a potluck.
Consider the setting when choosing the size of your tartlets. Larger ones make a heartier snack for a picnic or afternoon tea, while mini tartlets are perfect for fancy finger food at any celebratory bash.
Visual Appeal and Presentation
Your tartlets should not only taste good but also look good. For a rustic, elegant presentation, glaze the pastries with the egg wash and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. This will add a subtle glimmer to the golden crust.
Once baked, arrange the tartlets on a platter with a few fresh sprigs of parsley or a dusting of paprika for a pop of color. Presentation is key to whetting your guests’ appetites, and you want your tartlets to look as appetizing as they taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets
Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these tartlets ahead of time. Simply assemble and refrigerate them up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to serve, bake them according to the recipe instructions, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Are butternut squash and feta tartlets suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for a diverse group of guests. Just ensure the puff pastry you use does not contain any animal fats.
Can I freeze the tartlets?
Yes, butternut squash and feta tartlets freeze well. Prepare and bake the tartlets as instructed, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Is it possible to make these tartlets gluten-free?
Certainly, to make these tartlets gluten-free, use a gluten-free puff pastry available at most health food stores or supermarkets. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How can I make the puff pastry from scratch?
Although making puff pastry from scratch is a bit time-consuming, it can be done with some patience. You’ll need flour, butter, salt, and water. There are many online tutorials that guide you through the process of layering the dough and butter to create that perfect flaky texture.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Using fresh herbs in this recipe is highly recommended for enhanced flavor. If you decide to use fresh herbs, remember that the general rule of thumb is to use three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dry herbs.
What other types of squash can I use if I don’t have butternut squash?
If butternut squash is unavailable, you can substitute it with similar types of squash, such as acorn squash or kabocha (the giant green and yellow squash). These varieties may have slightly different cooking times or flavors but will still work well with this recipe.
Butternut squash and feta tartlets are a wonderful addition to any party spread. The sweet, earthy squash melds beautifully with the tangy feta, and the crisp puff pastry ties it all together. They are not only delightful in taste but also rich in nutrients.
With flexible serving options and room for creativity, these tartlets can shine in any setting. Whether at a casual picnic or your most elegant soirée, they are sure to impress and satisfy your guests.
The next time you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication to your party menu, consider crafting these tartlets. Your friends and family will thank you for introducing them to this delectable party snack.
More Fun Picnic Ideas You’ll Love
Planning a picnic can be so much fun! To help you get your little outdoor excursion pulled together, we’ve got some more fun picnic ideas we think you’ll love:
- 17 Picnic Desserts That Don’t Need Refrigeration
- Classic Italian Picnic Sandwich
- How to Plan an Authentic Italian Picnic
- 17 Breakfast Picnic Ideas
Butternut Squash and Feta Tartlets
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- knife
- cutting board
- bowl
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 5.6 oz 1 ¼ cup all purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp water more if needed
For the filling:
- 1 cup butternut squash
- 3 tbsp parsley
- ¼ cup feta cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a food processor place the flour, sugar, salt and butter, process for a few minutes then add the white vinegar and the water. Process the ingredients until you get a dough. Wrap the dough in a plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour.5.6 oz 1 ¼ cup all purpose flour, 1 tbsp sugar, ½ tsp kosher salt, ½ cup cold unsalted butter, 1 tbsp white vinegar, 1 tbsp water
- Roll the dough using a rolling pin and cut circles using the top part of a glass. Place the circles into a previously greased muffin mold and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the squash into cubes, place it in a baking sheet prepared with baking paper at the same temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until it gets soft.1 cup butternut squash
- Chop the parsley and place it in a big bowl together with the previously prepared squash and crumbled feta cheese. Add the olive oil inside and stir with a spoon. Fill the previously baked cups with 1-2 tbsp of the filling.3 tbsp parsley, ¼ cup feta cheese, 1 tbsp olive oil
