Save Savory sausage rounds topped with tangy cranberry sauce and fresh herbs, these festive bites are perfect for holiday gatherings and cocktail parties.
I first served this appetizer at a Christmas party and it was an instant hit with all my guests enjoying the fresh festive flavors.
Ingredients
- Sausage: 450 g (1 lb) good-quality cocktail sausages or thick pork sausages, cut into 2-cm (¾-inch) slices, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Topping: 120 g (½ cup) cranberry sauce (whole berry recommended), 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped, 1 small red chili, deseeded and finely diced (optional for heat)
- Garnish: Fresh small parsley or rosemary sprigs (to resemble holly leaves), 24 fresh or dried cranberries (or pomegranate seeds for berries)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Prepare sausage:
- Toss the sausage slices with olive oil and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet
- Roast sausages:
- Roast for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and cooked through
- Make topping:
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce with chopped parsley, rosemary and chili (if using)
- Cool sausages:
- Remove sausages from the oven and cool slightly
- Assemble bites:
- Spoon a small dollop of the herbed cranberry mixture onto each sausage bite
- Garnish:
- Garnish each with a mini parsley or rosemary sprig and a cranberry or pomegranate seed to create a festive holly berry look
- Serve:
- Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature
Save This recipe brings the family together every holiday season as everyone loves the festive look and bold flavors.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, baking sheet, parchment paper, small mixing bowl, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains Meat (pork or turkey depending on sausage choice) May contain Gluten if sausages are not gluten-free Double-check sausage and cranberry sauce labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 70 Total Fat 4 g Carbohydrates 4 g Protein 3 g per serving
Save Enjoy these festive bites warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and presentation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of sausages work best for these bites?
Good-quality cocktail or thick pork sausages sliced evenly ensure uniform roasting and flavor. Turkey sausages offer a lighter alternative.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply select sausages labeled gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions without altering taste.
- → How is the cranberry topping prepared?
The sauce mixes whole cranberry berries with fresh chopped parsley, rosemary, and optional finely diced chili for a balanced tang and herb aroma.
- → What is the ideal roasting temperature and time?
Roast sausage slices at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway to achieve a golden, cooked-through finish.
- → How should these bites be served for best results?
Arrange on a platter, garnish with herb sprigs and berries, and serve warm or at room temperature for a festive presentation.