Save A vibrant, festive salad featuring golden puff pastry flowers filled with creamy brie and tangy cranberries, served atop fresh greens for an elegant appetizer or light meal.
I remember serving these cranberry and brie flower bites at a holiday gathering and watching everyone marvel at their beautiful appearance and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- For the Cranberry and Brie Flower Bites: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed, 120 g (4 oz) brie cheese rind removed cut into 18 small cubes, 6 tbsp cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred), 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- For the Salad: 120 g (4 cups) mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula baby spinach frisée), 1 small pear thinly sliced, 30 g (1/4 cup) toasted pecans or walnuts roughly chopped, 40 g (1/3 cup) pomegranate seeds
- For the Dressing: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- On a lightly floured surface roll out the puff pastry to smooth it Using a flower-shaped cookie cutter (about 6 cm/2.5 in) cut out 18 flower shapes.
- Step 3:
- Place the pastry flowers on the prepared baking sheet Gently press the center of each flower to make a slight indentation.
- Step 4:
- Place one cube of brie and 1 tsp cranberry sauce in the center of each pastry flower.
- Step 5:
- Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden and puffed Allow to cool slightly.
- Step 7:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil balsamic vinegar Dijon mustard honey salt and pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 8:
- In a large bowl toss the salad greens with the dressing Arrange on a platter or individual plates.
- Step 9:
- Top with pear slices toasted nuts and pomegranate seeds.
- Step 10:
- Arrange 3 cranberry and brie flower bites per serving atop the salad Serve immediately.
Save This recipe was a hit around my family table especially during holidays and special occasions.
Notes
Add cooked shredded chicken for extra protein Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling wine.
Required Tools
Baking sheet Parchment paper Flower-shaped cookie cutter Pastry brush Mixing bowls Whisk
Allergen Information
Contains Gluten (puff pastry) Dairy (brie) Egg Tree nuts (pecans walnuts) Mustard Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save This salad combines festive flavors with easy preparation making it a perfect addition to any gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the puff pastry bites?
Roll out the thawed puff pastry and use a flower-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Gently press the center of each flower to create an indentation for the filling.
- → What is the best way to keep the pastry golden?
Brush the edges of the puff pastry with beaten egg before baking to achieve a shiny, golden finish.
- → Can I substitute cranberry sauce with another ingredient?
Yes, fig jam or apricot preserves make excellent alternatives for a different fruity flavor profile.
- → What nuts work well in the salad?
Toasted pecans or walnuts add a crunchy texture and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruit and cheese.
- → How is the dressing prepared?
Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until combined and smooth.