This galette blends crisp spring vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, and zucchini with creamy goat cheese atop a flaky pastry crust. A simple lemon zest and fresh herbs lift the flavors, while an egg wash and sea salt finish create a golden, textured crust. Baking at high heat ensures tender vegetables nestled in a buttery shell. Versatile for brunch, lunch, or light dinners, this dish offers freshness and richness in every bite.
The first time I made this galette, I was running late for a brunch and threw whatever spring vegetables I had on hand onto the dough. My friends kept asking for the recipe, and honestly, I had barely measured anything. That happy accident taught me that rustic tarts are more about confidence than precision.
Last spring, my neighbor brought over a basket of vegetables from her garden, and this galette was born. We ate it on her porch while the kids played in the yard, and something about that afternoon made this recipe feel like home.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of a flaky crust that holds everything together
- Unsalted butter: Keep it ice cold for the most tender, layered pastry
- Fresh goat cheese: Its tangy creaminess creates the perfect base for delicate vegetables
- Crème fraîche: Adds richness and helps bind the filling into a spreadable consistency
- Asparagus: Choose thin spears for the best texture and quick cooking
- Sugar snap peas: Their natural sweetness balances the tangy goat cheese
- Zucchini: Slice it thinly so it becomes tender in the oven
- Fresh peas: Even frozen ones work beautifully and add pops of sweetness
- Fresh herbs: Chives and mint or basil bring brightness that wakes up every bite
Instructions
- Make the pastry dough:
- Whisk the flour and salt in a large bowl, then work in the cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Drizzle in ice water and mix just until the dough holds together when pressed.
- Chill the dough:
- Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the gluten relaxes.
- Prepare the goat cheese filling:
- Mix the goat cheese, crème fraîche, egg, lemon zest, pepper, and salt until smooth and spreadable.
- Prep the vegetables:
- Toss the asparagus, snap peas, zucchini, and peas with olive oil, chives, and your chosen herbs.
- Roll out the dough:
- On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle and transfer to a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Assemble the galette:
- Spread the goat cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a 2-inch border, then arrange the vegetables on top.
- Form the crust:
- Fold the pastry edges up and over the filling, creating pleats as you work around the circle.
- Add the finishing touches:
- Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and black pepper.
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Bake at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and the vegetables are tender.
This recipe became my go to for spring gatherings after I served it at my mothers birthday. She kept sneaking pieces throughout the afternoon, and by dinner time, there was nothing left but crumbs on the cutting board.
Making Ahead
The pastry dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept wrapped in the refrigerator. The goat cheese filling can also be prepared a day ahead, but wait to toss the vegetables with herbs until right before assembling so they stay fresh.
Vegetable Swaps
Spring is all about flexibility, so use whatever looks best at the market. Baby carrots, leeks, or artichoke hearts work beautifully in place of or alongside the vegetables listed. The key is cutting everything into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This galette shines at brunch or lunch alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It also works beautifully as a light dinner, perhaps with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé. Serve it warm or at room temperature, which makes it perfect for picnics and potlucks.
- A light arugula salad with shaved Parmesan balances the richness
- Let the galette rest for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes
There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a golden, bubbling galette from the oven. Share it with people you love.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What vegetables work best for this galette?
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Spring vegetables such as asparagus, sugar snap peas, zucchini, and peas provide a fresh, tender texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
- → How do I make the pastry flaky?
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Use cold, cubed butter incorporated into flour until it resembles coarse crumbs, then add ice water just until the dough comes together. Chilling the dough before rolling helps maintain flakiness.
- → Can I prepare parts ahead of time?
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Yes, the pastry and cheese filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance then assembled right before baking.
- → What is the purpose of the lemon zest in the filling?
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Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of goat cheese and enhances the freshness of the vegetables.
- → How should I serve the galette?
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Serve slightly warm or at room temperature to enjoy the flaky crust and tender vegetable filling at their best.
- → What herbs complement this galette?
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Fresh chives with mint or basil add fragrant, herbal layers that brighten the overall flavor profile.