Introduction
This Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread with Fresh Herbs quickly became a family favorite in our house. The combination of tangy-sweet cranberry sauce with balsamic vinegar creates a unique and flavorful glaze that elevates the flatbread to a new level of deliciousness. The richness of melted mozzarella and the creamy crumbles of goat cheese perfectly complement the subtle heat from the red onions, while the fresh herbs add a touch of fragrance. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive appetizer for a holiday gathering. We loved how quickly it came together — it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. It’s a fun, modern twist on a traditional flatbread, and everyone kept asking for more!
Ingredients
To make this Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread with Fresh Herbs, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pre-made flatbread or pizza crust
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Arugula, for topping (optional)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a beautifully rustic flatbread:
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. Alternatively, if you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. - Make the Cranberry Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce and balsamic vinegar. Stir until smooth. The result is a tangy-sweet glaze that will form the base of the flatbread, giving it a unique flavor profile. - Assemble the Flatbread:
Place your flatbread or pizza crust on the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the cranberry-balsamic glaze evenly over the top of the flatbread using the back of a spoon, ensuring a smooth and even coating. - Add the Cheeses and Onion:
Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the glaze, followed by crumbled goat cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast. Then, arrange the thinly sliced red onion on top. Spread the onions evenly to ensure each bite has a balanced sweetness and flavor. - Season and Bake:
Sprinkle a light touch of salt and pepper over the flatbread. Place it in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust is golden brown with crispy edges. - Finish with Fresh Herbs:
After removing the flatbread from the oven, garnish it with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs. For extra freshness, top with a handful of arugula. The fresh herbs bring an aromatic touch that enhances the flavor. - Serve:
Slice the flatbread into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy the warm, melted cheese combined with the sweet and tangy cranberry glaze and the aromatic herbs.
Nutrition Facts
This Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread serves 4 people, with each serving providing:
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 330mg
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
How to Serve
This Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some serving ideas:
- Appetizer for Parties: Slice into smaller wedges and serve as a flavorful appetizer at your next gathering.
- Main Course: Pair with a side salad for a light, but satisfying, dinner.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Snack: Enjoy as a tasty midday snack or light dinner option.
Additional Tips
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce: If you have the time, make your own cranberry sauce for a more customized flavor. It’s simple to make and can be adjusted to your taste preferences.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust or flatbread if you prefer to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Cheese Variations: Try using fontina or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a different cheese experience. A mix of cheeses can create even more depth of flavor.
- Adding Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding slices of grilled chicken or crispy bacon on top of the flatbread before baking.
- Herb Substitutes: If rosemary or thyme isn’t to your liking, try using basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
This Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread is incredibly versatile, and you can experiment with the following variations:
- Add Apples: Thinly sliced apples can add a crisp, sweet element that pairs well with the cranberry glaze and balsamic vinegar.
- Swap the Greens: If arugula is not available or to your taste, use spinach, kale, or even mixed greens as an alternative.
- Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free cheese blend and a vegan flatbread to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Sweeten it Up: If you prefer a sweeter flatbread, drizzle a bit of honey over the top after baking for an added touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of this delightful flatbread, pair it with any of these dishes:
- A Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the flatbread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the flatbread with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables like squash, carrots, or brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
- Soup: This flatbread pairs wonderfully with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato basil, butternut squash, or a creamy potato leek soup.
Freezing and Storage
You can store any leftover Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread for later enjoyment. Here’s how:
- Freezing: Allow the flatbread to cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, place it directly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
- Refrigeration: If you plan to eat the leftovers within 2-3 days, store the flatbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free crust, cauliflower crust, or even pita bread as an alternative.
2. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works well for convenience, but homemade sauce will give you more control over the flavor.
3. Can I add meat to this flatbread?
Yes, grilled chicken or bacon would both pair well with the flavors of the flatbread.
4. What if I don’t like goat cheese?
You can substitute goat cheese with feta cheese or leave it out altogether if you prefer a simpler flavor.
5. Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
You can prepare the flatbread up to the point of baking. Store it in the fridge and bake when you’re ready.
6. Can I use balsamic glaze instead of balsamic vinegar?
Yes, balsamic glaze will add an extra touch of sweetness but will work in place of balsamic vinegar.
7. How do I store leftover flatbread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp it up.
8. Can I use a pizza stone for this recipe?
Yes, using a pizza stone can result in a crispier crust. Just preheat it along with your oven.
9. Can I use a different herb besides rosemary or thyme?
Yes, you can substitute basil, oregano, or parsley if you prefer different fresh herbs.
10. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the recipe is vegetarian, as it contains no meat.
Conclusion
This Rustic Cranberry & Balsamic Glazed Flatbread is an exceptional dish that balances the richness of cheese with the tangy sweetness of cranberry and balsamic vinegar. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its easy-to-follow instructions and room for customization, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and the beautiful presentation as you create a memorable meal for family and friends.