Description
1 store-bought or homemade flatbread
1 cup fresh cranberries
2 tbsp honey
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Directions:
Roast the Cranberries: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss cranberries with honey, cinnamon, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes until
softened.
Prepare the Flatbread: Brush the flatbread with olive oil and place it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly across the surface.
Assemble and Bake: Scatter the roasted cranberries and toasted walnuts over the flatbread. Bake for 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden.
Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh rosemary, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Slice and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 320 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect flatbread every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, gently toss 1 cup of fresh cranberries with 2 tablespoons of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until evenly coated. Spread this mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, just until the cranberries soften and begin to burst. While they roast, prepare your flatbread. Place it on a separate baking sheet and lightly brush the entire surface with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese over the oiled base. Once the cranberries are done, scatter them and 1/4 cup of toasted, chopped walnuts over the feta. Bake the assembled flatbread for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This flatbread is versatile and can be adapted for any occasion. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It makes an excellent appetizer for holiday gatherings; cut it into small squares for easy sharing. For a heartier vegetarian main, add a layer of caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms before baking. Pair it with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red, such as Pinot Noir, to complement the tangy cranberries and salty feta.
How-to Summary
In short: Toss cranberries with honey and spices, then roast. Oil a flatbread and top with feta. Add the roasted cranberries and walnuts, then bake until crispy. Finish with fresh rosemary and a balsamic glaze drizzle before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, but rehydrate them first. Soak dried cranberries in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes, drain, and pat dry before tossing with honey and roasting. The texture and tartness will differ slightly.
What’s a good substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese (chèvre) offers a similar tangy creaminess. For a milder flavor, try ricotta salata or even shredded mozzarella for more melt.
How do I toast walnuts properly? Place chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can roast the cranberries and toast the walnuts up to 2 days in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake the flatbread just before serving for the best texture.
My flatbread turned out soggy. What happened? Sogginess is usually caused by underbaking or overloading toppings. Ensure your oven is fully preheated, use a perforated pizza pan if available, and spread toppings in a thin, even layer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not skip toasting the walnuts; this step is crucial for deepening their flavor and adding crunch. Second, resist overloading the flatbread with toppings, as this will prevent it from crisping properly. Third, ensure your baking sheet is preheated with the oven if not using parchment paper, to kickstart cooking on the bottom. Finally, add the fresh rosemary only after baking; if added before, it will burn and become bitter.
Conclusion
This Cranberry, Feta, and Walnut Flatbread is a stunning combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, all coming together in under 30 minutes. It’s a foolproof recipe that impresses with minimal effort, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant starter. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common errors and customize it to your taste. We hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.