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Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or a grand holiday bash, appetizers set the tone for any festive gathering. My roundup features 45 healthy-ish appetizers perfect for celebrating the season. From classic deviled eggs to Middle Eastern mezze boards, there’s something for every palate. While many options lean towards the healthier side, I’ve prioritized flavor and crowd-pleasing appeal.
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What makes these appetizers special isn’t just their mouthwatering flavors but also their ease of preparation. Many of these treats, like easy garlic knots or shrimp avocado bowls, come together in under 30 minutes, letting you spend more time enjoying the party. Whether you’re looking for a cold starter like a classic shrimp cocktail or something warm and indulgent like baked feta and olives, I’ve got you covered. Dig in and make this holiday season deliciously memorable!
WHY YOU SHOULD MAKE MORE HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
- Appetizers easily add variety without making an entire meal. Sure, you can grill a steak or you can make garlic butter steak bites for all to savor. Appetizers are meant to be enjoyed in small, bite-sized servings so you can offer a range of diverse flavors and textures without committing to a full-course dinner of those same foods.
- Small bites stimulate your appetite. One of the benefits of serving appetizers before a meal is that it can wake up your appetite and prepare you for the main meal. And these small bites offer an exciting preview of the flavors to come.
- Encourages a laid-back atmosphere. Holiday parties can be intimidating. Serving appetizers allows your guests to easily move around, chat, and mingle while enjoying delicious bites, without the social awkwardness. This is especially great for new friends who may not feel comfortable with a sit-down dinner immediately upon arrival.
- Great for a grazing-style dining experience. Appetizers can be the entire meal if you’re going for a casual, relaxed evening. This approach is perfect for holiday parties where the emphasis is on socializing and enjoying a variety of foods over an extended period of time.
TIPS FOR MAKING HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
- Make veggies the star of the show! Veggies are versatile, and inexpensive, and make a perfect accompaniment to a whole host of appetizers. Brush up on how to cut broccoli, cauliflower florets, celery, or carrots, so your veggie spread comes together effortlessly. And pair them up with a wide range of healthy dips. Win-win!
- Balance flavors and textures. When looking for Christmas appetizer ideas, be sure to have a variety of tastes. Offer a combo of savory, tangy, creamy, and crunchy appetizers. Include options like dips, finger foods, and hearty bites.
- Coordinate cooking times. If you’ve been tasked with multiple appetizers, choose ones with similar cooking times and temperatures to avoid juggling different oven temperatures and duration.
- Opt for make-ahead options. Alleviate some of that holiday entertaining stress and choose appetizers that can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other tasks closer to the event. Most dips and spreads can be prepped in advance as well as chopping up veggies or pre-cooking the proteins.
- Focus on functional but practical serving. Appetizers should be easy to eat. Choose finger foods that guests can pick up with their hands or cocktail picks inserted into proteins like air fryer meatballs or tofu.
- Keep it simple. Focus on a few festive appetizers and utilize store-bought shortcuts for the rest. Eliminate the overwhelm, and if needed, use store-bought items like puff pastry, bread dough, pre-cut veggies, or yogurt to save time.
BEST HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
If you’re like me, you probably linger around the appetizer table during holiday parties. How can you resist the vast array of bite-size goodness? So it seemed appropriate to come up with an ultimate collection of the best holiday appetizers, for parties big and small. You’ll find cool bites that will keep you and your guests coming back for more and easy holiday appetizers that ensure you spend less time in the kitchen and more time decking the halls. You’ll find everything from classic Christmas party appetizers to holiday finger foods and hearty dips and spreads for all your favorite dippers. Get ready to indulge in the festive spirit, one delicious bite at a time.
COLD HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
Appetizer
Deviled Eggs
The best Deviled eggs recipe and an easy-to-make appetizer that's sure to please. Perfect for parties, holidays, and any other gatherings.
35 minutes
Appetizer
Butter Board
Need a butter board recipe that's sweeter for breakfast or brunch? I've got you covered! Fresh berries, honey & nuts atop softened butter with bread. Yum!
10 minutes
Appetizer, Main Course
Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Ready to serve in less than 20 minutes, these shrimp lettuce wraps are served with a spicy peanut dipping sauce for a bite full of flavor.
17 minutes
Appetizer
Goat Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes
Goat Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes are juicy, filled with whipped cheeses, and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for the perfect quick appetizer.
17 minutes
Appetizer
How to Make Shrimp Cocktail
Learn how to make a classic shrimp cocktail quickly and easily for a delicious appetizer for the holidays; served with a tangy cocktail sauce
18 minutes
Appetizer
Shrimp Cocktail in Avocado Bowls
Shrimp Cocktail in Avocado Bowls are easy to prepare and a huge hit at parties – making them a fun & delicious appetizer for the holidays!
8 minutes
Appetizer
Cucumber Sushi Rolls
These gluten-free cucumber sushi rolls are so easy to make and they are such a colorful and pretty appetizer. Filled with fresh veggies and a seasoned cream cheese.
15 minutes
Appetizer, Sandwich
Pinwheel Sandwiches – 4 ways
Looking for lunch ideas? These pinwheel sandwich recipes are easy to make and have some untraditional fillings that are sure to be a hit.
10 minutes
Appetizer
Mezze Platter
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with a mezze platter! A colorful spread of delicious cold dips, veggies, cheese, and more.
30 minutes
EASY HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
Appetizer
Pasta Chips
Pasta Chips are the latest TikTok trend made with cooked pasta that's drained and tossed with olive oil, cheese and spices- perfect appetizer
30 minutes
Appetizer
Crostini with Roasted Tomatoes
Crostini with Roasted Tomatoes is the ultimate party food or appetizer to serve to guests. They look fancy, but are made with only three simple ingredients!
2 hours 50 minutes
Appetizer
Smoked Salmon Platter
This smoked salmon platter is the perfect appetizer! The presentation is jaw-dropping and the accompaniments are delicious! Great for holidays and potlucks!
15 minutes
Appetizer, Snack
Stuffed Dates – 4 Ways
Simple, quick and easy to make, these stuffed dates make a great appetizer or snack, Choose from sweet or savory fillings everyone will love.
15 minutes
Appetizer
Garlic Knots
These garlic knots are made from scratch with only four ingredients; there's no need for yeast or kneading – simple to make and crowd pleaser
30 minutes
Appetizer
Baked Brie Appetizer
Baked brie is a super simple appetizer to serve and one that I keep coming back to. It’s gooey, and topped with honey and herbs, plus all the good stuff like fruit, nuts, and crackers.
38 minutes
Appetizer
Caprese Skewers
Fresh and flavorful mini Caprese Skewers – juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. A perfect appetizer!
10 minutes
CHRISTMAS PARTY APPETIZERS
Dessert
Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread
This Christmas tree pull-apart bread is my go-to for holiday gatherings made with pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, and marinara for dipping!
41 minutes
Appetizer
Christmas Tree Vegetable Platter
This Christmas Tree Vegetable Platter is an easy, fun and festive appetizer or snack to serve during the holidays. It's quick to make and great for parties!
15 minutes
Appetizer
Cranberry Baked Brie
This Cranberry Baked Brie is so good! I look forward to it every holiday season and when you make it in a bread bowl it's like two bonuses in one!
35 minutes
Appetizer
Focaccia Charcuterie Board
This focaccia charcuterie board is a new trend made by baking a wheel of brie right into focaccia bread and then serving it together topped with charcuterie items like deli meats, sliced cheese, fresh fruit and nuts.
Appetizer
Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
These Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms are perfect to serve as appetizers at your next holiday gathering. They are flavorful, cheesy crowd pleasing finger foods
25 minutes
Salad, Side Dish
Christmas Wreath Salad
Quick and easy to make, this Christmas wreath salad is a healthy and fun festive side your guests will love!
10 minutes
Appetizer
Christmas Charcuterie Board Wreath
This Christmas wreath charcuterie board is the perfect Christmas-themed appetizer! It's as easy as making antipasto skewers and decorating with rosemary!
15 minutes
Appetizer, Snack
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
This delicious tomato basil bruschetta is so quick and easy to make and full of vibrant flavors. This vegan appetizer will be a hit at any gathering!
10 minutes
Appetizer
Crudite Platter
This stunning Crudite Platter is loaded with fresh and crunchy veggies, featuring a creamy homemade dip made with Greek yogurt, sour cream, and seasonings.
15 minutes
HOLIDAY FINGER FOODS
Appetizer
Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry brie bites made with flaky puff pastry, creamy brie, cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, and a hint of fresh herbs for a festive appetizer!
35 minutes
Appetizer
Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
These cheese stuffed meatballs use brie, your ground meat of choice and the air fryer to make a delicious cheesy meatball appetizer that is so good!
17 minutes
Appetizer
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
This Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp recipe is like your favorite restaurant style version but only healthier because I skip the heavy oil and deep frying method
22 minutes
Appetizer
Zucchini Tots
Zucchini Tots are a low-carb gluten-free friendly alternative to classic tater tots. They're oven-baked, cheesy, tender and perfect as an appetizer!
40 minutes
Appetizer, Snacks
Mushroom Tartlets
These cheesy mushroom tartlets are the perfect appetizer for holiday parties – made with onions, mushrooms and cheese on top of a buttery flaky mini pastry!
35 minutes
Appetizer
Taco Cups with Chicken and Cheese
Crispy wonton taco cups filled with juicy chicken, fresh salsa, & cheddar cheese make for an amazing appetizer or simple weeknight meal. Ready in under 30!
25 minutes
Appetizer
Spanakopita
Made with just a few simple ingredients, these delicious spinach and feta spanakopita triangles are a fun appetizer recipe to make at home.
55 minutes
Dinner, Entree
Mac and Cheese Bites
Mac and Cheese Bites are mini forms of the classic recipe made in mini muffin tins. They're a cheesy, simple & fun appetizer idea that kids and adults love!
45 minutes
Appetizer
Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves
These Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves are a Mediterranean classic recipe made with short grain rice, parsley, tomatoes and onions – my favorite appetizer!
3 hours 30 minutes
HOLIDAY DIPS AND SPREADS
Appetizer
Cream Cheese Spinach Dip
This Cream Cheese Spinach Dip is a rich creamy dip that is a made with greek yogurt instead of sour cream – great with bread and crackers!
25 minutes
Appetizer
Lebanese Baba Ghanoush
This Lebanese inspired Baba Ghanoush is made with only 4 ingredients: oven-roasted eggplant, lemon juice, tahini & garlic – a great alternative to hummus!
1 hour 5 minutes
Appetizer
Baked Feta Dip
Simple and easy to make with fresh ingredients, this baked feta dip is an effortless appetizer that's made for sharing- perfect with crackers
40 minutes
Appetizer
Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip
Dairy-free and Vegan, this spinach artichoke dip is absolutely creamy and cheesy while still being dairy free. Made with cashews and delicious!
35 minutes
Appetizer
7 Layer Mediterranean Dip
Try this easy Mediterranean twist on the popular 7 layer dip for your next party; perfect appetizer to feed a crowd and dip with pita chips!
20 minutes
Appetizer
Artichoke Tahini Dip
Loaded with flavor, this spinach and artichoke tahini dip is a crowd pleasing appetizer. Baked in the oven; best served with pita or crackers!
40 minutes
Appetizer, Dips, Snack
Whipped Cottage Cheese
Whipped cottage cheese is deliciously easy, infused with aromatic herbs and garlic, and so creamy – perfect as a snack or appetizer.
5 minutes
Appetizer, Dips, Snack
Beet Hummus
This roasted beet hummus is pink, delicious, and fun to eat! Pair it with pita chips and veggies for a snack or appetizer! A perfect way to use up beetroot!
55 minutes
Appetizer
Buffalo Chicken Dip
This Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect game day appetizer. You'll love this cheesy, spicy chicken dip with chips, veggies, and more!
35 minutes
Appetizer, Dips
Cranberry Salsa
My fresh cranberry salsa is a blend of chunky, fresh cranberries, orange and lime juice, jalapeno, and fresh cilantro. Serve with tortilla chips, pita chips with your turkey, or just because!
10 minutes
HOW TO STORE HOLIDAY APPETIZERS
- Refrigerate perishables. If your appetizers contain dairy, meat, or seafood, store them in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
- Separate recipe components. For appetizers that involve different components, consider storing them separately. In other words, store wet foods separate from dry foods to maintain their individual textures and freshness. For lettuce wraps, I recommend scooping out the filling and storing that separately.
- Room temperature storage. Appetizers that include crackers, flatbread, tortillas, or other similar foods, may be best stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
- Storing hot appetizers. Cool them to room temperature first before refrigerating. Then store in airtight containers per individual recipe suggestions. When reheating, use the oven or stovetop for best results.
- Freezing make-ahead appetitizers. Many appetizers are very freezer-friendly. However, it’s always a good idea to reference recipe-specific instructions for freezing appetizers and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many appetizers should I serve at a holiday gathering?
The number of appetizers you need to serve depends on several factors, including the number of guests and whether you’re serving a full meal or just snacks. But generally, you want to plan for at least 3-5 different appetizers per person. If your event is mainly focused on appetizers, I would aim for 8-10 appetizers per person.
What’s the best way to transport appetizers to a holiday party?
Use sturdy, airtight containers to prevent spills and maintain freshness. Consider storing moist ingredients separately from dry ingredients during transport and assembling them together just before serving to maintain freshness.
How can I make my stale crackers or chips crispy again?
Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and heat in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. Watch them closely though to avoid burning them but the heat will crisp them up and they will be good as new.
This collection of holiday appetizers offers something for everyone. From cold holiday appetizers to traditional Christmas finger foods to creamy and delicious dips – you’ll find it here! So savor the holiday spirit and let these Christmas appetizer ideas become the centerpiece of your joyful festivities.
For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: Easy Christmas Morning Breakfasts, New Year’s Eve Recipes, Best Christmas Cookies, and Best Cozy Winter Recipes.
If you found this recipe roundup for Holiday Appetizers helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipes! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots, share it on Instagram so we can repost on Stories!
