Pin it 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 appetizer trio has become a holiday staple in my family as it offers variety and pleasing flavors that cater to all tastes
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
Pin it This recipe always brings the family together with laughter and sharing during the holidays
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
Pin it This vibrant appetizer trio is sure to impress guests and create memorable holiday moments
Common Questions
- → How do you keep puff pastry crisp in cranberry brie bites?
Ensure the pastry is well-chilled before baking and use an egg wash for a golden, crisp finish. Avoid soggy fillings and bake until puffed and golden.
- → Can the mini caprese skewers be prepped ahead?
Yes, assemble skewers and keep chilled. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What meat is best for spiced Moroccan meatballs?
Ground beef or lamb works well, offering rich flavor and texture that complements the warm spices and herbs.
- → How to make the trio vegetarian friendly?
Substitute spiced meatballs with mushroom or falafel balls, keeping the cranberry brie bites and caprese skewers as they are.
- → What wine pairs with this festive trio?
Choose sparkling wine or a light-bodied red to complement the mix of creamy, fresh, and spiced flavors.