Spring is Just Around the Corner!
This recipe was created as winter thaws into spring – it’s a time when I’m eager to embrace the fresh flavors of the new season. The combination of tender asparagus and mellow roasted garlic is a match made in culinary heaven, perfectly capturing the essence of springtime on a plate.
The Magic of Asparagus and Roasted Garlic
Take a buttery, flaky gluten-free pastry crust and add caramelized onions as the base. Then top it with a blend of melted mozzarella and nutty Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious bed for the stars of the show: vibrant green asparagus spears and smokey roasted garlic. The asparagus, arranged randomly or in a beautiful pattern, brings a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, caramelized notes of the roasted garlic. A sprinkle of zesty gremolata adds a burst of brightness, tying all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
I love asparagus! It often takes center stage in meals at my house. We typically enjoy it steamed, oven-roasted, or sautéed in a pan, but in this galette, it becomes the star of the show rather than a side dish. The tender spears are perfectly complemented by the rich flavors of roasted garlic and melted cheese, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
I add a sprinkle of gremolata to bring a burst of citrusy freshness, reminiscent of spring and summer’s vibrant flavors. This bright, zesty condiment is the perfect way to cut through the richness of the galette, infusing it with a lively taste that’s especially welcome on cold, grey evenings. As the nights remain chilly and the skies are grey, this asparagus galette, elevated by the citrusy charm of gremolata, is a culinary beacon of warmth and comfort, transporting us to sunnier days ahead.
What Makes This Galette Shine?
This galette embodies the spirit of spring. Asparagus offers a tender-crisp texture and a delicate flavor that signals the end of winter’s hearty fare. The roasted garlic provides a mellow, sweet counterpoint to the asparagus’s green notes, while the cheese blend adds richness and depth. There’s something magical about creating a dish that celebrates the bounty of the season – it feels both timely and timeless.
A Culinary Canvas of Spring
As I slice into this galette, I’m struck by how it really captures the essence of spring. The green and tender asparagus spears, perfectly roasted and nestled in a bed of cheese and caramelized onions, tell a story of renewal and freshness. The aroma of roasted garlic wafting through the kitchen and the satisfying crackle of the crust as my fork breaks through – these sensory experiences transform a simple meal into a celebration of the season. It’s these moments that fuel my passion for cooking and sharing the joy it brings.
From Garden to Table: Your Springtime Adventure
This galette is more than just a recipe – it’s an invitation to embrace the bounty of spring (even before it’s here)! You’re not just cooking; you’re crafting an experience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or seeking a comforting meal, this Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette promises to be the centerpiece of your table. So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let’s welcome spring with open arms and eager palates!
Ingredients to Prepare the Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette
These ingredients come together to create a gluten-free asparagus and roasted garlic galette that’s both flavorful and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Gluten-Free Dough
- Follow the instructions found here for my gluten free pie dough recipe.
Asparagus
- Asparagus is a springtime delight, known for its tender spears and delicate tips. It boasts a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of earthy undertones. In this recipe, the asparagus is carefully arranged on top of the galette, adding a vibrant green layer.
Olive Oil
- Use olive oil to sauté and caramelize the onions. It adds a subtle fruity and earthy flavor to the dish and helps soften and sweeten the onions.
Unsalted Butter
- Unsalted butter lends a creamy and rich quality to the caramelized onions. As it melts and combines with the natural sugars in the onions, it creates a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying.
Onions
- Use sliced and caramelized to bring a sweet, rich, and savory flavor to the galette. The slow cooking process turns them soft and golden brown, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Garlic
- Roasted garlic is incorporated into the galette to add a deep, sweet, and velvety richness. Unlike raw garlic, which can be pungent and overpowering, roasted garlic mellows out its strong flavor, becoming sweet and surprisingly nutty with a hint of smokiness.
Fresh Thyme, Sage, or Herbs de Provence
- Aromatic herbs are a wonderful addition, providing a burst of flavor and aroma. Thyme is earthy, and slightly lemony note. Sage is warm, and savory. Herbs de Provence is a blend of herbs like rosemary, marjoram, and lavender, offering a fragrant and harmonious flavor profile. When caramelized with the onions, they infuse a rich, savory essence that elevates the overall taste of the galette. Sprinkling some fresh herbs on top of the assembled galette enhances its visual appeal and introduces a pop of freshness.
Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese
- Mozzarella cheese is a mild, smooth-textured Italian cheese. It has a delicate, fresh flavor and a creamy white or pale ivory color. In this recipe, mozzarella adds a soft, milky richness and a subtle freshness that complements the other ingredients. Its mildness provides a gentle contrast to stronger flavors, while its creamy texture enhances the overall harmony of the dish.
Gremolata
- Gremolata is a vibrant Italian condiment made from a harmonious blend of chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon zest. This simple yet potent mixture adds a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor to the Gluten-Free Asparagus Galette.
Salt and Pepper
- Salt and pepper are common seasonings used to enhance the overall flavor of the galette.
Equipment to Prepare the Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette
Essential Equipment to Prepare the Galette Recipe:
Food Processor (optional)
- A food processor is handy for making the gluten-free dough quickly and efficiently. However, you can also mix the dough by hand if you don’t have a food processor.
Rolling Pin
- You’ll need a rolling pin to roll out the dough into a circle of the desired size. This will help create the crust for your galette.
Mixing Bowls
- Use mixing bowls to combine and mix various ingredients throughout the recipe, including the dough and filling components.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Measuring cups are essential for accurately measuring ingredients like flour, water, and grated cheese. Measuring spoons help you measure smaller quantities of ingredients like salt, xanthan gum, sugar, and herbs.
Skillet
- Use a skillet or frying pan to caramelize the onions. You’ll use it to melt butter, cook the onions until they become soft and caramelized, and add herbs and salt and pepper for flavor.
Rimmed Baking Sheet
- A rimmed baking sheet is essential for baking the galette in the oven. It provides a flat surface for the galette to cook evenly.
Parchment Paper
- I use parchment paper is to line the baking sheet and prevent the galette from sticking. It also makes it easier to transfer the galette in and out of the oven.
Knife and Cutting Board
- A knife and cutting board are essential for chopping the asparagus into 1 ½ to 2 inch pieces.
Oven
- You’ll use a conventional oven to bake the galette to perfection.
Box Grater (optional)
- If you prefer using whole blocks of cheese, you can grate Emmentaler cheese with a box grater, which is a key ingredient in the filling of the Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette. However, if you choose the convenience of pre-grated cheese, you can skip this step and proceed with the pre-grated cheese of your choice.
Brush or Pastry Brush (optional)
- A brush or pastry brush is handy for applying the egg yolk wash to the edges of the galette, which gives it a beautiful golden finish.
Cooling Rack (Optional)
- While not essential, a cooling rack can help cool the galette evenly once it’s removed from the oven. Just don’t place a hot pan directly on a heat sensitive counter.
Substitutions
Remember to consider any dietary restrictions or personal preferences when making substitutions.
The key is to adapt the recipe to your needs while still maintaining the overall structure and flavors of the galette. Enjoy your customized Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic galette!
These ingredients have easy substitutions.
Unsalted Butter
- If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute cold dairy-free margarine or a vegan butter alternative for the unsalted butter used in the dough. Make sure it’s cold and solid when you use it. Additionally, if you don’t have unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, just reduce the salt in the dough by ½.
Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese
- If you prefer a different cheese or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute with other mild, meltable cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re vegan.
Egg Yolk (for egg wash)
- If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, you can use dairy-free milk, like almond or soy milk, as a wash to give the crust a golden color.
Olive Oil
- If you don’t have olive oil or prefer a different flavor, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil. My go-to when I don’t want to use olive oil is avocado oil as it has a neutral flavor, high heating temperature and is heart healthy.
Onions
- If you’re not a fan of onions or have dietary restrictions, you can use shallots, leeks, or scallions as a substitute. They will provide a similar caramelized flavor.
Asparagus
- While asparagus is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other thinly sliced vegetables like summer squash, yellow squash, or even thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Seasonings
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to enhance the flavor.
What to serve with Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roast Garlic Galette?
The Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful meal. However, if you’d like to enhance the dining experience and create a well-rounded meal, here are some serving suggestions and side dishes that pair well with the galette:
Mixed Green Salad
- A simple salad with fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing can complement the savory flavors of the galette and provide a refreshing contrast.
Soup
- Serve a warm bowl of soup alongside the galette. Options like tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or a hearty vegetable soup can make for a satisfying meal combination.
Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, can be a great side dish. The caramelized flavors of roasted veggies harmonize well with the galette’s richness.
Herb-Seasoned Rice
- A side of seasoned rice, perhaps with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, can be a nice addition for those who prefer a heartier meal.
Cheese and Charcuterie Platter
- For a more casual gathering or appetizer-style meal, consider serving a cheese and charcuterie platter with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and fresh fruits.
Fruit Salad
- A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus can provide a sweet contrast to the galette’s savory flavors.
Why will you love this savory galette?
Delicious Flavor
- This galette boasts a harmonious blend of flavors. The sweetness of caramelized onions complements the savory richness of the cheese, while the fresh asparagus adds a vibrant, slightly nutty taste. Together, these ingredients create a mouthwatering and well-balanced flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option
- For individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding delicious gluten-free recipes can be a challenge. This galette offers a gluten-free alternative to a classic pastry, allowing those with dietary restrictions to indulge in a flavorful dish.
Versatility
- The recipe is versatile and adaptable. You can customize it by adding other vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. This flexibility allows for endless variations and experimentation.
Reminder that Spring is Just Around the Corner
- When we are dreaming of warmer weather and sunshine, this galette is a burst of springtime flavors!
Rustic Charm
- The galette’s rustic appearance and free-form shape add to its appeal. It’s an inviting and visually pleasing dish that feels cozy and comforting, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ease of Preparation
- While it looks impressive, making this galette is surprisingly straightforward. The step-by-step instructions provided in the recipe make it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.
Perfect for Gatherings
- Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or a cozy family meal, this galette can be a delightful centerpiece. It’s easy to serve, and its rustic charm makes it an excellent conversation starter.
Reheats Well
- Leftovers of this galette can be reheated and enjoyed the next day, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
Adaptable for Dietary Needs
- The recipe can be modified to suit various dietary preferences. You can make it dairy-free, vegan, or incorporate other dietary restrictions by choosing suitable substitutions.
Balanced and Satisfying
- With a combination of vegetables, cheese, and a flaky gluten-free crust, this galette offers a satisfying and balanced meal that’s both comforting and filling.
Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette
Description
Perfect as a main dish served with a salad or soup. Or consider this as a great starter. Gluten-Free Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Galette is savory, flavorful and easy to make.
Ingredients
Gluten Free Dough
Asparagus and Roasted Garlic Filling
Instructions
Prepare the Gluten-Free Crust
-
Prepare a single gluten-free pie crust according to the recipe found here
Caramelize the Onions
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- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Caramelizing Onions in a frying pan
- Add the thinly sliced onions, herbs, and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown and become caramelized, about 30-40 minutes.
- Watch the heat to ensure you do not burn the onions. Lower the heat if necessary.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set aside to cool.
Roast the head of garlic
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- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove any loose outer layers from the garlic head and cut about ½ inch off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves.
- Place the garlic head cut side up on a piece of foil.
- Drizzle the exposed surface with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Wrap the garlic tightly in the foil or parchment paper to create a sealed packet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 60 minutes, checking at the 30-minute mark and continuing until it reaches your desired softness.
- Once roasted, remove the garlic from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Squeeze the soft cloves out of their skins.
- Set aside.
Prepare the gremolata
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- Wash and pat the parsley dry. Remove thick stems and chop the remaining leaves and tender stems. Zest a lemon using a Microplane or fine grater to get about 1 teaspoon of zest. Mince 1 clove of garlic.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and minced garlic.
- Set aside.
Prepare the other ingredients
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- While the onions are caramelizing in the skillet, chop the asparagus spears into 1-2 inch pieces. Discard the woody end pieces. Set aside.
- Shred the mozzarella using a box grater. Set aside.
- Shred the Parmesan Cheese using a box grater.
- Set aside.
Assemble the Galette
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- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a sheet of parchment paper, roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle, about 14 inches in diameter.
- Transfer the dough on the parchment to a rimmed baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Leaving a 2-inch border, spread the caramelized onions evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle 2/3 of the shredded mozzarella over the onions.
- Arrange the asparagus over the cheese. Place randomly or in place the asparagus pieces in a radiating pattern from the center of a dish.
- Place the roasted cloves of garlic evenly on the galette filling.
- Sprinkle with the shredded parmesan cheese.
- Lightly season with salt and pepper to taste.
Fold and Bake
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- Fold the edges of the dough over onto the filling.
- Brush the folded dough edges with cream or egg wash.
- Lightly season the folded edge with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
Serve and Enjoy
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- Remove the galette from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle the baked galette with gremolata to taste.
- Slice, serve, and savor the flavors.
Happy baking and eating.
Note
Gluten-Free Flours
When it comes to baking gluten-free, the type of flour you use can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your final product. Here are some important tips regarding gluten-free flours for your Gluten-Free Banana Muffins recipe:
1. Homemade Flour Blend
I use a custom gluten-free flour blend that I make myself, which weighs approximately 140 grams per cup. This blend typically includes a mix of gluten-free flours such as white and brown rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, sorghum and milk powder, providing a balanced texture and flavor for baking.
2. Store-Bought Gluten-Free Flours
If you prefer to use a store-bought gluten-free flour blend, it's crucial to check the packaging for the weight per cup, as this can vary between brands. Each manufacturer may have a different formulation, which affects the density and weight of their flour.
Here are several that are available from Amazon:
- King Arthur Measure for Measure Gluten-Free Flour
- Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1 to 1 Baking Flour
- Cup4Cup Gluten Free Multipurpose Flour
None of these flours contain xanthan gum. So if your recipe calls for xanthan gum, omit the extra xanthan if using one of these blends. All of the manufacturers promote these products as a one-to-one replacement.
3. Measuring for Accuracy
For the most accurate results, I highly recommend using a digital food scale to measure your gluten-free flour. Measuring by weight ensures that you have the correct amount, leading to more consistent and successful baking outcomes. This method eliminates the variability that can come from measuring by volume, especially with gluten-free flours, which can be compacted or aerated differently.
By paying attention to these details, you'll set yourself up for success in creating a delicious and moist Gluten-Free Banana Muffins. Happy baking!
Kosher Salt
You can use kosher salt in this recipe; however, the crystal of table salt and kosher salt are not the same. So a teaspoon of one is not the same as a teaspoon of the other. Here are equivalents for two commonly available kosher salt brands:
To Replace: 1 teaspoon table salt
- 2 teaspoon diamond Crystal Kosher Salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Morton Kosher Salt
