Mediterranean Cranberry Balsamic Flatbread with Goat Cheese & Arugula
This Mediterranean-inspired flatbread combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Creamy goat cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and balsamic glaze pair beautifully with peppery arugula and crunchy toasted nuts. Quick to prepare and visually stunning, it’s perfect as an appetizer, light lunch, or elegant snack.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
1 (250 g) store-bought flatbread or naan
2 tablespoons (30 mL) olive oil
½ cup (120 mL) cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
4 oz (115 g) goat cheese, crumbled
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon (15 mL) balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
1 cup (30 g) fresh arugula
2 tablespoons (20 g) toasted walnuts or pecans, chopped
Pinch of sea salt and black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the flatbread:
Place the flatbread on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil.
Add toppings:
Spread cranberry sauce evenly over the flatbread.
Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top.
Scatter thinly sliced red onion over the cheese.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the flatbread is crispy around the edges and the cheese is slightly melted.
Add fresh toppings:
Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Top with fresh arugula and toasted nuts.
Season lightly with sea salt and black pepper.
Serve:
Slice into pieces and serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Variations
Cheese Alternatives – Try feta, ricotta, or cream cheese instead of goat cheese for a different flavor and texture.
Nut Variations – Use pecans, almonds, or pistachios for crunch and flavor variation.
Fruit Boost – Add thin slices of pear, apple, or figs for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
Herbs – Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil on top for extra aroma.
Make it Vegan – Use a plant-based cheese and vegan flatbread.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle of chili oil for subtle heat.
Gluten-Free Option – Substitute with a gluten-free flatbread or naan.
Meal Prep Friendly – Prepare the cranberry sauce and toasted nuts ahead of time; assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Drizzle Upgrade – Mix balsamic glaze with a teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this flatbread ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the cranberry sauce and toast the nuts in advance. Assemble and bake the flatbread just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
A: Yes, store-bought balsamic glaze works perfectly, or you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until syrupy.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese and use vegan flatbread to make this flatbread fully vegan.
Q: What other nuts can I use?
A: Toasted pecans, almonds, pistachios, or even hazelnuts work well.
Q: Can I add protein?
A: Yes, top with grilled chicken slices or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
Nutrition
(per serving, makes 2–3 servings)
Approximate values, depending on flatbread and toppings used:
Calories: ~360
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: ~400mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Cranberry Balsamic Flatbread with Goat Cheese & Arugula is a delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Creamy goat cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and peppery arugula create a vibrant and satisfying flavor profile, while toasted nuts add crunch and texture. Quick to assemble and bake, it’s perfect for a casual snack, appetizer, or light lunch. Elegant yet easy, it brings a Mediterranean flair to your table in under 20 minutes.