An appetizer for a large dinner party can be as easy as setting out a cheese and cracker plate. But sometimes the occasion calls for a spread that is a bit more elegant, such as a holiday cocktail party. Here is a list of my favorite tried-and-true appetizer recipes (and for the most part, even healthy ones), plus a few new recipes I’d like to try this year.
Baked Brie
FIRST ROW:
- Baked brie, one of my personal favorites. Throw it in the oven until warm and gooey, then top with fruit, honey, or caramelized onions. A couple of years ago we got a 2-lb wheel for Thanksgiving. We didn’t quite finish it, for some reason.
- Fig, honey, and goat cheese bites—of course I have to include these.
- Cantaloupe plus prosciutto, drizzled with balsamic. So very simple and wonderful.
- Deviled eggs. Add a little sundried tomato for a seriously tasty twist.
SECOND ROW:
- Spiced nuts! All the rage.
- Lightened-up hot spinach and artichoke dip. You know those dishes that you can tell are fat-free and “lighter” from the taste? This isn’t one of them. Extremely delicious.
- Bruschetta has been around a long time, and there is a reason it’s a classic. Reliable crowd pleaser.
- These caprese bites would be gone in a flash too.
THIRD ROW (Recipes that I’d like to try):
- Stuffed endives. I was introduced to endives when I worked for a Paleo food blog. Turns out they’re awesome for appetizers. Presentation and flavor, check.
- Antipasto skewers. An appetizer that is really easy to put together, yet looks impressive.
- French Onion Soup-Stuffed Mushrooms. I might even start liking mushrooms for this one.
- I will get there, someday.
Not pictured:
My family also likes this spinach dip something fierce.
What are your favorite holiday appetizers?
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