Description
This Christmas Smoked Salmon Bruschetta Wreath is a festive and elegant holiday appetizer featuring toasted baguette rounds topped with a creamy garlic-dill cream cheese spread and delicate slices of smoked salmon. Garnished with lemon zest and vibrant pomegranate arils, this stunning wreath is perfect for entertaining and adds a colorful, delicious touch to any holiday spread.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Spread
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta
- 1 baguette, sliced into bite-sized rounds
- 4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
For Garnish
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp pomegranate arils (for garnish)
- Rosemary sprigs or small ornaments (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp to the touch.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic and chopped dill. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors, mixing until smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the Wreath Base: On a large serving platter, arrange the toasted baguette slices in a circular shape to form a festive wreath. Make sure the pieces are closely placed for an appealing presentation.
- Spread and Top: Evenly spread a generous layer of the garlic-dill cream cheese mixture onto each baguette round. Top each generously with a slice of smoked salmon, ensuring each bite will have a balance of flavors.
- Garnish and Decorate: Sprinkle lemon zest and pomegranate arils over the assembled wreath to add bursts of fresh color and flavor. Optionally, decorate the platter edges with rosemary sprigs or small holiday ornaments to enhance the festive appearance. Serve immediately to maintain the freshness and texture.
Notes
- To save time, toast the baguette slices and prepare the cream cheese mixture ahead of serving.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread rounds.
- Optional add-ons like capers, chives, or avocado slices can be added to vary flavor and texture.
- This dish is best served fresh to preserve the crispness of the bread and the creamy texture of the toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bruschetta piece
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg