Rustic Caramelized Onion and Cranberry Flatbread with Gruyère Cheese

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Description

This Rustic Caramelized Onion and Cranberry Flatbread with Gruyère Cheese is a beautifully balanced dish that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Caramelized onions bring rich depth, cranberries add a pop of tart sweetness, and melted Gruyère provides a nutty, creamy finish. Perfect as an appetizer, light dinner, or a festive party dish, this flatbread feels gourmet yet is simple to prepare.

Ingredients Rustic Caramelized Onion and Cranberry Flatbread with Gruyère Cheese

  • 1 store-bought flatbread (or homemade pizza dough, rolled thin)

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing)

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

  • 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries (or fresh, if in season)

  • 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded

  • 1 sprig fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions:

    • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.

    • Add onions with a pinch of salt and cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally until deep golden and caramelized.

    • Stir in balsamic vinegar and brown sugar (if using). Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.

  2. Prepare the flatbread:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Place flatbread on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil.

  3. Assemble:

    • Spread caramelized onions evenly over the flatbread.

    • Sprinkle shredded Gruyère on top.

    • Scatter cranberries and thyme leaves over the cheese.

  4. Bake:

    • Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling, and edges of flatbread are golden brown.

  5. Serve:

    • Slice into squares or wedges.

    • Serve warm, garnished with a touch of extra thyme if desired.

Notes

  • Use naan, pita, or lavash for a quick base if you don’t want to make dough.

  • You can swap Gruyère with Fontina, Brie, or Mozzarella for a different twist.

  • Fresh cranberries can be lightly sautéed with a touch of honey before adding.

  • Great paired with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider.

Tips

  • Low & slow caramelization is key — rushing the onions will give them a bitter taste.

  • Pre-shred cheese for faster melting.

  • For extra flavor, drizzle with honey or a balsamic reduction before serving.

  • Add arugula on top after baking for a peppery freshness.

Servings

  • Makes 2–3 servings as a light meal, or 4–6 servings as an appetizer.

Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: ~285

  • Protein: 11g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Sugars: 10g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 390mg

Benefits

  • Onions: Rich in antioxidants, support heart health.

  • Cranberries: Boost urinary tract health and immune support.

  • Gruyère Cheese: High in protein and calcium, supports bone health.

  • Flatbread base: Provides energy through healthy carbs.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Caramelize the onions a day before and refrigerate. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian-friendly?
A: This recipe is already vegetarian. For vegan, swap Gruyère with a plant-based cheese.

Q: What’s the best wine pairing?
A: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or even a sparkling wine pairs beautifully.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze caramelized onions separately for future use.

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