The magic of the holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a feast of flavors that capture the essence of holly-inspired delicacies? From sweet treats like Holly Berry Tart with Vanilla Custard and Holly Berry Jam Thumbprint Cookies, to savory dishes like Roasted Chicken with Holly Herb Rub and Holly Leaf Wrapped Salmon, we’ve got you covered with 18 festive recipes that are sure to impress your loved ones.
In this special edition of our recipe series, we’re taking a closer look at the delightful flavors and textures that holly brings to the table. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple yet elegant appetizer, these recipes will guide you every step of the way. So grab your apron, don your holiday spirit, and get ready to indulge in some merry making with our Holly Inspired Delicacies!
Holly Berry Tart with Vanilla Custard
This show-stopping tart is perfect for the holiday season, featuring a flaky crust, a tangy holly berry filling, and a creamy vanilla custard topping. With its vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
For the holly berry filling:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the vanilla custard:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Prepare the holly berry filling according to package instructions or recipe.
4. Pour the custard into the prepared tart shell.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Holly Leaf Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of holly leaf pesto with perfectly cooked pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup holly leaf pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine holly leaf pesto, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Chicken with Holly Herb Rub
Roasted Chicken with Holly Herb Rub Recipe
Summary: This classic roasted chicken recipe gets a boost of flavor from a fragrant holly herb rub, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Holly herb rub mixture (see below)
Holly Herb Rub:
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh holly leaves (or substitute with parsley or sage)
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Sprinkle the holly herb rub mixture evenly over the chicken.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Holly Berry Compote over Pancakes
Elevate your weekend brunch with this sweet and tangy compote, bursting with the flavors of holly berries. Pair it with fluffy pancakes for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen holly berries (or substitute with cranberries or blueberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the holly berries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the holly berries, sugar, orange juice, honey, and vanilla extract.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the compote has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the water and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve warm over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Holly Infused Gin Cocktail
A refreshing twist on a classic gin cocktail, this Holly Infused Gin Cocktail combines the subtle sweetness of holly berries with the crispness of gin and lime. Perfect for warm weather or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup holly berries (or substitute with cranberries or cherries)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the holly berries with simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add gin and lime juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None!
Holly Leaf Wrapped Salmon
A flavorful and visually appealing dish perfect for the holiday season. This recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with the sweetness of holly leaves, creating a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh holly leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a salmon fillet on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
5. Arrange 2-3 holly leaves on top of the salmon, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Drizzle the olive oil mixture over the holly leaves, making sure they’re evenly coated.
7. Fold the parchment paper or foil over the salmon, creating a neat package.
8. Repeat with remaining fillets and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Holly Berry Jam Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for the holiday season. A combination of holly berry jam and crunchy chopped pecans adds a delightful twist to the classic thumbprint cookie.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup holly berry jam
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lightly floured surface. Make an indentation in each cookie with your thumb or a spoon.
6. Fill each cookie with about 1/2 tsp holly berry jam and top with chopped pecans.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Holly Spiced Mulled Wine
This classic winter drink combines the flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and orange to create a cozy and inviting beverage perfect for chilly nights by the fire. With a few simple ingredients and some gentle heat, you’ll be sipping on this delightful concoction in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Add the sliced orange to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar and water until dissolved.
6. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or cups and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Holly Leaf Salad with Citrus Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for the holiday season, featuring crisp greens, sweet citrus, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup holly leaves (fresh or dried)
– 1/2 cup sliced red grapefruit
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp citrus dressing (recipe below)
Citrus Dressing:
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, holly leaves, grapefruit slices, goat cheese, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together citrus dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Holly Berry Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Holly Berry Glazed Ham. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for special occasions and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1 cup holly berry jam or cranberry-orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine holly berry jam, honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking until smooth.
4. Place ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scored in a diamond pattern if desired.
5. Brush glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the crevices.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Holly Infused Olive Oil Bread
Elevate your bread game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the warmth of holly-infused olive oil with the comfort of a soft, crusty loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons holly-infused olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add holly-infused olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 10-12 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Holly Leaf and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Holly Leaf and Goat Cheese Tartlets Recipe
These elegant tartlets are perfect for a holiday party or special occasion. A delicate pastry crust is filled with creamy goat cheese, fragrant holly leaves, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh holly leaves (or substitute with rosemary or thyme)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and chopped holly leaves. Spoon a small amount onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold other half of pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape. Press edges to seal.
5. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Holly Berry Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet is perfect for the holiday season, featuring a blend of cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries. With its vibrant red color and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Blend until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blended berry mixture and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in water. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Churning Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on your ice cream maker)
Holly Spiced Pumpkin Soup
This creamy pumpkin soup is infused with the warmth of holly spices, making it a perfect comfort food for the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious and cozy soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and pureed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Holly Leaf Wrapped Brie with Honey
A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for the holiday season. This elegant appetizer is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 package of holly leaf-shaped crackers (or regular crackers cut into leaves)
– 2 tbsp of honey
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the Brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the holly leaf-shaped crackers around the Brie, slightly overlapping each other.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is softened and the crackers are lightly toasted.
5. Drizzle the honey over the warm cheese and crackers.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Holly Berry Chutney with Cheese Platter
This sweet and tangy chutney pairs perfectly with a variety of cheeses, making it an ideal accompaniment for your next gathering or snack time. With its rich flavors and vibrant color, this holly berry chutney is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup red currants
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted cheeses (e.g., cheddar, brie, gouda)
– Crackers or bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, red currants, sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and honey.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chutney has thickened.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite cheeses and crackers or bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Holly Infused Tea with Lemon
This recipe combines the calming properties of holly leaves with the invigorating essence of lemon, creating a tea that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried holly leaves
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1/2 lemon, sliced
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a teapot or mug, combine the dried holly leaves and boiling water.
2. Steep for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Remove the tea leaves by straining the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add sliced lemon to the tea and stir gently.
5. If desired, sweeten with honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Holly Leaf Garnished Roasted Vegetables
A vibrant and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with a pop of color from holly leaf garnishes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2-3 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh holly leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the chopped carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Garnish with fresh holly leaves, if desired, to add a pop of color to your roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive recipes inspired by holly! From sweet treats like Holly Berry Tart with Vanilla Custard and Holly Berry Jam Thumbprint Cookies, to savory dishes like Roasted Chicken with Holly Herb Rub and Holly Leaf Wrapped Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the drinks – try a Holly Infused Gin Cocktail or warm up with some Holly Spiced Mulled Wine. And for a sweet treat, indulge in Holly Berry Compote over Pancakes or Holly Berry Sorbet. Whatever your taste, these holly-inspired recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gatherings!
