Dessert

Leek, Goat’s Cheese, Walnut & Lemon Tart Recipe

ByJake Silas November 29, 2025November 29, 2025

Introduction

This leek, goat’s cheese, walnut, and lemon tart is a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy flavors wrapped in golden, flaky pastry. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful appetizer, it brings fresh herbs and citrus to the forefront.

A rectangular tart with a golden brown puff pastry crust forms the base layer, holding a topping of creamy white cheese spread evenly across it. On top of the cheese are chunks of green and light brown caramelized vegetables, possibly onions and nuts scattered throughout, creating a textured look. The tart is cut into squares, with one piece being lifted by a woman's hand using a black spatula. Below the tart, there is a white plate with a yellow pear resting on a grey cloth, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
25g butter
2 medium leeks, sliced
2 tbsp chopped thyme leaves
Zest of 2 lemons and juice of 1 lemon
375g pack ready-rolled puff pastry
200g soft spreadable goat’s cheese
50g walnut pieces
Little chopped parsley, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/gas mark 7. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, then add the butter. Once sizzling, add the sliced leeks and cook over medium heat until softened but not browned.
Step 2: Stir in the chopped thyme and half of the lemon zest. Increase the heat, add the lemon juice, and cook for about 30 seconds until the juice reduces. Season well, then remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Unroll the puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with baking parchment. Lightly score a 1cm border around the edges using the tip of a sharp knife, then prick the base all over with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Step 4: Spread the cooled lemony leeks within the scored border. Crumble the goat’s cheese evenly over the leeks, scatter the walnut pieces on top, and season with black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and brush the edges of the pastry with a little oil as well.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and the remaining lemon zest.
Step 6: Serve the tart hot, warm, or at room temperature according to your preference.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes when cooking the leeks for a subtle heat.
Substitute walnuts with toasted pecans or pine nuts for a different nutty flavor.
Make the tart ahead of time and reheat gently to retain crispiness.
Use fresh thyme for a brighter herb flavor or try rosemary for a more robust taste.

Storage

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven to keep the pastry crisp, or enjoy cold as a quick snack.

How to Serve

The image shows a rectangular puff pastry tart with a golden brown crust that is slightly raised at the edges. On the tart's surface, there are spread layers of a green vegetable mixture, likely cooked leeks or onions, giving a soft, textured look. Scattered over this green layer are dollops of white creamy cheese, adding a smooth, rich visual contrast. Small pieces of brown nuts or roasted seeds are sprinkled evenly on top, adding rough texture. A woman's hand is holding a metal spatula, lifting a square piece from the tart, revealing a sharp straight cut along the edges. The tart sits on a dark baking tray placed on a white marbled surface. Below the tray, there is a white plate with a yellow pear resting on a light blue-grey cloth. To the right of the tray is a dark knife. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry for this tart?

Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.

Is it possible to make this tart vegan?

You can make a vegan version by using a plant-based puff pastry, substituting the butter with a vegan alternative, and using a soft vegan cheese in place of goat’s cheese.