Holiday hosting can feel overwhelming, but these easy appetizers keep things simple and delicious. With crispy, creamy, and savory bites, these recipes will keep everyone happy and make your spread look effortless. Set them out, let guests dig in, and enjoy a little more time to relax—or at least look like you are.
Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites
Sweet potato guacamole bacon bites are a festive and tasty appetizer, featuring crispy sweet potato with soft centers. Topped with bacon, they offer a delightful combination of flavors, ideal for a holiday party where guests are looking for something unique.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites
Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip
The roasted garlic white bean dip, with its creamy texture and healthy protein boost from cottage cheese, is a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings. It’s a unique and flavorful dip that offers a sophisticated twist on traditional bean dips for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip
BBQ Roasted Chickpeas
BBQ roasted chickpeas offer a savory and crunchy alternative to traditional holiday snacks. They’re an easy and delicious option for guests who might be looking for healthier snacking choices, and they work well as a standalone snack or as a topping.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Roasted Chickpeas
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
The creamy spinach artichoke dip is a classic and beloved choice for holiday parties. Serve it warm or at room temperature with crackers, chips, or veggies for a universally enjoyable appetizer that’s a surefire hit with guests of all tastes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Blue Cheese Steak Crostini
Blue cheese steak crostini are the perfect little bites for a sophisticated holiday appetizer. Featuring garlicky toasted bread, salty blue cheese, rare steak, and a balsamic reduction, they are sure to elevate any festive occasion with their gourmet appeal.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Steak Crostini
Spicy Seasoned Pretzels
Spicy seasoned pretzels are an easy homemade snack that’s great for holiday dipping. Pair them with guacamole, salsa, or hummus for a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that adds a flavorful kick to your festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Seasoned Pretzels
Roasted Eggplant Dip
This creamy roasted eggplant dip is a sophisticated and flavorful addition to any holiday appetizer spread. It’s an excellent choice for guests who enjoy healthy yet delicious snacking options, pairing perfectly with a variety of dippers.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Eggplant Dip
Goat Cheese Tomato Sausage Tart
The goat cheese tomato sausage tart is a delightful appetizer for holiday events, pairing well with a glass of wine. Its indulgent flavors make it a great choice for a festive treat, offering a combination of rich goat cheese, savory sausage, and fresh tomato.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Tomato Sausage Tart
Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip
The cheesy chipotle fundido dip is a warm and inviting choice for holiday gatherings. Its spicy chipotle hummus twist makes it a standout appetizer, perfect for dipping with chips or roasted vegetables. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive event.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip
Whipped Burrata Lemon Shrimp Crostini
Whipped burrata lemon shrimp crostini bring a touch of elegance to holiday gatherings. They’re perfect for pairing with a chilled glass of white wine, offering a luxurious appetizer option that’s sure to impress your guests with its combination of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Burrata Lemon Shrimp Crostini
Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp
The baked bang bang shrimp is a healthier take on a popular restaurant appetizer, making it a perfect choice for holiday events. Its crispy, crunchy texture, paired with a killer sauce, will be a hit with guests looking for something familiar yet exciting.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp
Crispy Salmon Bites
Crispy salmon bites are a unique and elegant appetizer, ideal for holiday parties. They can be served on a salad, with a dipping sauce, or even as part of the main meal alongside veggies and rice for a more substantial bite. They’re a delightful way to elevate canned salmon for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Salmon Bites
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
