Description
A festive and elegant Christmas Smoked Salmon Bruschetta Wreath featuring bite-sized baguette rounds topped with a creamy dill and garlic cream cheese spread, smoked salmon slices, and garnished with fresh lemon zest and vibrant pomegranate arils. Perfect as a holiday appetizer to impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Bruschetta Base
- 1 baguette, sliced into bite-sized rounds
Topping
- 4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp pomegranate arils (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the minced garlic and chopped fresh dill. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Toast the Baguette Slices: Arrange the baguette rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly crisp and golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Bruschetta: Spread a generous layer of the dill and garlic cream cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice. Then, carefully place a slice of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
- Arrange into a Wreath Shape: On a large serving plate, place the assembled bruschettas in a circular wreath shape, slightly overlapping the edges to form a festive ring.
- Add Garnish: Sprinkle lemon zest over the bruschetta wreath for a bright citrus aroma. Scatter the pomegranate arils evenly around the wreath to add festive color and a burst of juicy sweetness.
- Serve: Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the toasted baguette and the freshness of the toppings. Enjoy as a delightful holiday appetizer.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can lightly brush the baguette slices with olive oil before toasting.
- To make the dish ahead, prepare the cream cheese spread and smoked salmon slices in advance, then assemble just before serving to keep the baguette crunchy.
- Use fresh, good-quality smoked salmon for the best taste.
- Pomegranate arils may be substituted with finely chopped fresh herbs like chives for a different garnish.
Keywords: Christmas appetizer, smoked salmon bruschetta, holiday party food, easy bruschetta recipe, festive finger food