Save A dazzling trio of festive appetizers blending global flavors to brighten any holiday gathering. Includes Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites, Mini Caprese Skewers, and Spiced Moroccan Meatballs.
This recipe makes holiday gatherings extra special with easy and elegant appetizers I enjoy preparing for my family and friends.
Ingredients
- Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites: 1 sheet puff pastry thawed, 120 g (4 oz) brie cheese cut into 24 small cubes, 4 tbsp cranberry sauce, 1 egg beaten (for egg wash), fresh thyme leaves for garnish
- Mini Caprese Skewers: 12 cherry tomatoes, 12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), 12 fresh basil leaves, 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp balsamic glaze, salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Spiced Moroccan Meatballs: 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef or lamb, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying), 100 ml (⅓ cup) plain yogurt (for dipping), 1 tsp harissa paste (optional for mixing into yogurt)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- For Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites Cut the puff pastry into 24 squares Place each square into a mini muffin tin Add a cube of brie and ½ tsp cranberry sauce to each Brush pastry edges with egg wash Bake for 13–15 minutes until golden Garnish with thyme.
- Step 3:
- For Mini Caprese Skewers Thread one cherry tomato one basil leaf and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer Arrange on a platter Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- For Spiced Moroccan Meatballs In a bowl mix ground meat onion garlic parsley cumin coriander cinnamon paprika salt and pepper Form into 24 small meatballs Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Fry meatballs turning until browned and cooked through (8–10 minutes) Mix yogurt and harissa (if using) for dipping.
- Step 5:
- Arrange all appetizers on festive platters and serve warm or at room temperature.
Save This recipe brings the family together around the table with smiles and hearty appetites during festive seasons.
Notes
Garnish with fresh herbs for extra color Wine pairing Sparkling wine or a light-bodied red
Required Tools
Mini muffin tin Baking sheets Mixing bowls Skewers or toothpicks Skillet or frying pan Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (brie mozzarella yogurt) and gluten (puff pastry) Meatballs contain alliums (onion garlic) Always check puff pastry and cheese labels for allergens or cross-contamination
Save This festive appetizer trio is perfect for holiday celebrations bringing ease and elegance to your menu.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the puff pastry crisp?
Ensure the oven is fully preheated and bake the puff pastry bites immediately after assembling. Avoid soggy fillings and serve soon after baking for optimal crispness.
- → Can I prepare the appetizers ahead of time?
You can assemble the caprese skewers and mix the meatball ingredients a few hours early. Puff pastry bites are best baked fresh but can be prepped and chilled before baking.
- → What substitutes can I use for ground meat in the meatballs?
For a vegetarian option, try using mashed chickpeas, mushrooms, or falafel mix as alternatives while keeping the same spices for flavor.
- → How should I serve the yogurt dip for the meatballs?
Serve the plain yogurt mixed with harissa paste alongside the meatballs for a creamy and spicy complement that balances the warm spices.
- → What wine pairs well with these appetizers?
Sparkling wines or light-bodied reds complement the variety of flavors and textures beautifully, refreshing the palate between bites.