Artichoke and Feta Tarts

Directions

1. 1.

   Preheat oven to 425°F. Blend cream and 2 ounces feta in a food processor until smooth; season with salt and pepper.

2. 2.

   If using 14-ounce package of puff pastry, cut in half and roll out each half on a lightly floured surface into a 16x10" rectangle. (If using 17.3-ounce package, use 1 sheet of pastry for each tart.) Transfer each piece of pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a paring knife, lightly score pastry (do not cut all the way through), leaving a 1" border.

3. 3.

   Spread feta mixture over pastry, dividing evenly and staying within border. Arrange artichoke hearts over feta mixture and crumble remaining 2 ounces feta over; drizzle with oil. Brush pastry border with egg.

4. 4.

   Bake tart until pastry is puffed and beginning to brown, 10-15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F and continue to bake until pastry is deep golden brown and cooked through, 20-25 minutes longer. Serve warm or at room temperature.

5. 5.

   Tart can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature.

6. 6.

   The feta and puff pastry in this tart pair well with any number of toppings. In place of the artichokes, try:

7. 7.

   Red Pepper + Olive: Scatter feta cream with jarred roasted red peppers, black olives, and chopped fresh rosemary, then bake. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil.

8. 8.

   Asparagus + Egg: Top cheese with asparagus that's been halved lengthwise. Once out of the oven, slide on a few fried eggs.

9. 9.

   Smoked Salmon + Scallion: Bake tart with feta only. When slightly cooled, add smoked salmon and sliced scallions.