Pesto and Goat Cheese Tarte Soleil

The Pesto and Goat Cheese Tarte Soleil is a stunning, savory pastry appetizer made from buttery puff pastry, creamy goat cheese, and vibrant pesto. Shaped like a radiant sun with twisted rays, this eye-catching tart is as fun to pull apart as it is delicious to eat. Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or dinner parties, it’s a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tarte soleil combines elegant presentation with bold, fresh flavors in a recipe that requires only a few ingredients and minimal effort. The rich, creamy goat cheese perfectly complements the herby, garlicky pesto, all wrapped in layers of flaky, golden pastry. It’s a showstopper that’s ready in under an hour and perfect for sharing. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with different fillings and dips.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Puff pastry sheets, thawed
• Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Goat cheese, softened
• Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: grated parmesan for topping
• Optional: herbs or seeds for garnish (thyme, rosemary, sesame, etc.)

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out one puff pastry sheet into a circle (use a plate as a guide) and place it on the baking sheet.
3. Spread an even layer of pesto over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Dot the surface with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry into the same size circle and place it on top.
6. Place a small glass in the center of the pastry to mark the middle, then cut the pastry into 16–24 equal strips radiating from the center.
7. Twist each strip two to three times to create the sunray effect.
8. Remove the glass, brush the pastry with beaten egg, and sprinkle with parmesan or herbs if using.
9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people as an appetizer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheese blend: Add shredded mozzarella or fontina with the goat cheese for extra creaminess.
• Nutty pesto: Use sun-dried tomato pesto or walnut pesto for a new flavor profile.
• Spicy kick: Mix chili flakes into the pesto for heat.
• Sweet version: Replace the filling with Nutella and crushed hazelnuts for a dessert tarte soleil.
• Vegan option: Use dairy-free pesto and vegan cheese alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving, which softens the pastry. This dish is best served fresh, but it reheats well for snacking the next day.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works great. Use homemade if you want a fresher flavor or specific ingredient control.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it unbaked. Bake just before serving for best results.

What type of goat cheese should I use?

Soft, fresh goat cheese (chevre) is best for easy spreading and creamy texture.

Can I use pie dough instead of puff pastry?

Puff pastry gives the flakiest texture, but pie dough will work if needed—it will just be more tender than crisp.

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Don’t overload the filling and make sure your pesto isn’t too oily or watery.

Can I freeze the tarte soleil?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers and reheat them in the oven. Assemble and freeze raw for best results if planning ahead.

What should I serve with it?

Serve with a dipping sauce like marinara, herbed yogurt, or more pesto.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free puff pastry alternative. Watch the pesto ingredients for gluten content too.

What is a tarte soleil?

It’s a French-inspired pull-apart tart, shaped like a sun, made by twisting strips of pastry into rays.

Do I need a special cutter or mold?

Nope—just a sharp knife and a small glass or jar to mark the center.

Conclusion

The Pesto and Goat Cheese Tarte Soleil is the ultimate appetizer for any gathering—visually stunning, deliciously flaky, and packed with bold, savory flavor. With minimal ingredients and easy assembly, it’s a recipe that delivers high impact with low effort. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or looking for a unique snack, this tarte soleil is sure to steal the spotlight.

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