Savory Mushroom Spinach Tart

Name: Savory Mushroom Spinach Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup cold water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 eggs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Best Dinners Recipes

I absolutely love making this Savory Mushroom Spinach Tart whenever I'm in the mood for something comforting yet elegant. The rich umami flavor from the mushrooms, combined with the earthy spinach, creates a delightful harmony. This tart is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. I often serve it at brunch or as a light dinner, paired with a crisp salad. The flaky pastry crust is surprisingly easy to work with, making this dish a go-to option for impressing guests on special occasions.

Created by

The Chefsimonsfood Team

Last updated on 2026-03-05T05:02:22.962Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how simple ingredients like mushrooms and spinach could create such deep flavors. I sauté the mushrooms with garlic to release their natural juices, which enhances the overall taste of the tart. It’s all about layering those flavors, and adding a touch of nutmeg gives it an unexpected warmth.

One specific tip I've found invaluable is using a mixture of fresh and dried herbs for added complexity. The fresh basil truly makes the dish shine, while the dried thyme infuses a comforting aroma. This tart is a true crowd-pleaser, and it never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Delectable combination of savory mushrooms and fresh spinach
Flaky, buttery pastry crust that is easy to make
Perfect for any occasion, from brunch to a light dinner

Understanding the Pastry Crust

The pastry crust of the Savory Mushroom Spinach Tart forms the foundation of this dish, contributing both texture and flavor. To achieve that perfectly flaky crust, make sure your butter is very cold. I recommend chilling the diced butter in the freezer for about 15 minutes before incorporating it into the flour. This chilling step prevents the butter from melting too quickly during baking, allowing those beautiful flaky layers to develop.

While rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. This ensures the crust cooks evenly without being too thick or doughy. If you encounter cracks in the dough as you transfer it to the tart dish, simply press them back together—or you can patch them with small scraps of dough.

Flavor Boosting Techniques

The sautéing process is key to enhancing the flavors of the mushroom and spinach filling. When cooking the mushrooms, don't rush this step; allow them to brown and develop a deep flavor. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. For a deeper taste, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after the mushrooms have released their moisture. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the filling.

For added dimension, you can experiment with herbs. While thyme and nutmeg work brilliantly together, feel free to substitute with fresh rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish beautifully. Always taste and adjust seasoning before assembling the tart.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Tart Crust

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Savory Mushroom Spinach Tart:

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Sauté the Fillings

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds before adding sliced mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are softened, then add chopped spinach and continue cooking until wilted. Season with thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Tart

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a tart dish. Spread the sautéed mixture evenly on the crust. In a bowl, whisk together ricotta, feta, and eggs, then pour over the mushroom-spinach mixture.

Bake

Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with vegan alternatives and use a plant-based egg replacer.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover tart, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. For reheating, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method will help retain the crust's texture better than microwaving, which can make it soggy.

Alternatively, if you want to make this tart in advance, you can prepare the filling and pastry separately and store them. The dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator or wrapped tightly and frozen for up to a month. The filling can also be made ahead of time; just ensure it's cooled completely before storing.

Serving Suggestions

This tart pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tart. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup, such as a creamy tomato or a hearty vegetable minestrone. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the finished slices can elevate the dish even further.

For a fun twist, you can experiment with toppings. Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for a Mediterranean flair, or toss in some sautéed leeks for a touch of sweetness. These additions not only diversify the flavor but also make the tart visually appealing when served at gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make the crust in advance?

Absolutely! You can make and freeze the crust up to a month ahead.

→ What should I serve with this tart?

A light salad or grilled vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish.