Festive Parmigiano Reggiano Pull-Apart Garland Recipe

Looking for a showstopping recipe to wow your guests this holiday season? This Parmigiano Reggiano Pull-Apart Garland is the perfect centrepiece for festive gatherings. With its golden-brown crust, savoury layers of red pesto and rosemary, and a delightful cheesy finish, this garland will add elegance and flavour to your Christmas table.

Check out wine suggestions for your festive gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 7g sachet fast-action dried yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp fine sea salt
• 300ml warm water
• 3 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 80g red pesto
• 60g finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano
• A few sprigs of fresh rosemary, finely chopped

For the Garnish:

• Additional Parmigiano Reggiano shavings
• Poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a rough dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.

2. First Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp tea towel or clingfilm, and leave to rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

3. Roll and Fill

1. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle approximately 50x30cm.
2. Spread the red pesto evenly over the surface, leaving a 1cm border around the edges. Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and chopped rosemary over the pesto.

4. Shape the Garland

1. Roll the dough tightly along the longer edge to create a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise into two long strips. Twist the strips together, keeping the cut sides facing up.
3. Shape the twisted dough into a circle on a lined baking tray and pinch the ends together to form a garland.

5. Second Rise

1. Cover the garland with a tea towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan).

6. Bake and Garnish

1. Brush the garland with olive oil and sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds, if using. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Once out of the oven, garnish with additional Parmigiano Reggiano shavings and serve warm.

Serving Ideas and Wine Pairings

• Serve with: A selection of olives, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair or this festive turkey recipe.
• Pair with:
  • Prosecco: Crisp and sparkling to complement the cheesy richness.
  • Chardonnay: A creamy white wine that balances the savoury flavours.

Explore more recipes like this here:

Start with:

1. Cream of Mushrooms and Potatoes with Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
2. Sweet Potato Soup with Crispy Prosciutto
3. Turkey Breast in Prosciutto with Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

Looking for more festive recipes? Follow us on Instagram for inspiration and pairings!