‘Tis the season for festive gatherings, and the worst feeling is bringing a sub-par dish to the table. As we step into all things holiday, one of the key elements that can elevate any gathering is the art of crafting exquisite appetizers. From family dinners to lively gatherings, a well-curated selection of holiday appetizers for hosting can set the tone for a memorable celebration.
It’s time to dissect what makes the best holiday appetizers for hosting all of your friends and family. From artisanal cheeses to savory cured meats, we’re sharing recipes that will not only satisfy taste buds but also create a visually stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Enjoy!
11 Holiday Appetizers for Hosting Your Seasonal Soirée
Holiday Bruschetta Board
Why We Love It: With deep shades of red from rich pomegranate seeds and touches of green from scattered rosemary springs, this holiday board is all you need for the best gatherings this season. Add on your favorite spreads, dips, and snacks—and bonus points if they’re seasonal ingredients!
Hero Ingredient: These slow-roasted tomatoes are to die for.
Tinned Fish Board
Why We Love It: Tinned fish is a unique take on your traditional charcuterie. This board is quick and easy, with fresh veggies, savory cheeses, and of course, French bread. If you’re looking for a low-stakes board with a little something for everyone, put these ingredients on your shopping list.
Hero Ingredient: The tinned fish, of course!
Dips & Crudite Grazing Board
Why We Love It: Sometimes, a board full of freshness is what my holiday menu is craving. This dips and crudite board is a little bit of everything—from homemade dips to crunchy nuts. These colors and light flavors are sure to serve as a stark contrast to all the sweets and proteins.
Hero Ingredient: Caramelized onions, in dip form? Talk about a no-leftover dish.
Kale Pea & Ricotta Spread
Why We Love It: Talk about an elegant side—this kale pea & ricotta spread is the perfect bite-sized holiday appetizer. In addition to your favorite crudites, the spread itself is fresh and creamy—the perfect complement to heavier dishes.
Hero Ingredient: Ricotta brings this side together.
Ricotta Board with Pears and Pistachios
Why We Love It: For a holiday appetizer that uses minimal dishes (Score!), this ricotta board is a simple and quick way to curate a delicious variety of snacks for grazing. There’s something about the ricotta/honey/apple combination that never gets old, no matter the time of year.
Hero Ingredient: Pistachios give this board the perfect element of crunchy.
Holiday Charcuterie Board
Why We Love It: This holiday cheese board is one that won’t break the bank. All you need is a good serving board and some seasonal ingredients. When the weather is cooler, I like to add in a mix of hard and soft cheeses like gruyere, gouda, or creamy brie.
Hero Ingredient: Pomegranates or cranberries can add a festive touch.
Apricot and Brie Tarte Soleil
Why We Love It: If your goal is to impress your guests, you have to try your hand at this tarte soleil. The pastry is filled with savory and sweet elements, such as brie, chili powder, and apricot preserves. It’s an all-around fan favorite that’s pretty hard to beat.
Hero Ingredient: Herbs are your friend—and we recommend rosemary and thyme with this beauty.
Baked Brie Charcuterie Board
Why We Love It: For all the Brie lovers, this charcuterie board makes the creamy cheese the star of the show. Pair it with other cheese favorites like gorgonzola or parmesan slivers to stand on-brand with a board full of rich cheese. Add in fresh and dried fruit as a sweet complement and slice a fresh baguette for the Brie board of your dreams.
Hero Ingredient: A drizzle of honey and brie go hand-in-hand.
Spinach Artichoke Tart
Why We Love It: When it comes to appetizers for hosting big crowds, everyone goes crazy over pastries. This makes the holidays a perfect time to whip up some of your top tarts. If you’re a fan of spinach and artichoke dip—give this pastry a try for all of your hosting occasions.
Hero Ingredient: Sour cream makes this filling rich and creamy.
Smokey Eggplant Dip
Why We Love It: Every table needs a good dip to snack on before the main meal, and this dip is a top-tier option. It’s far better than any pre-packaged dip you’ll find at the store—loaded with spices and bold flavors.
Hero Ingredient: The eggplant is obviously the heart of this dip.
Pesto Parmesan Potatoes
Why We Love It: One can never go wrong with a plate of potatoes, especially when you’re covered in nutty pesto and rich parmesan flakes. Pro tip: when serving, add some caramelized and roasted garlic paste and a bit of zingy lemon to cut through the richness of the potato and cheese.
Hero Ingredient: Yukon golds are your best bet here, but feel free to use whatever potato you have on hand.
The post The Appetizers Everyone Will Be Drooling Over This Holiday appeared first on Camille Styles.
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