As you prepare for the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of gift-giving and decorating. But before you know it, Christmas Day is upon us and you’re scrambling to get everything ready. Between cooking the turkey and preparing side dishes, it can be overwhelming.
That’s why having some delicious and healthy appetizers on hand can be a lifesaver. The problem is that many traditional holiday snacks are high in calories and sugar, leaving you feeling guilty and bloated after indulging.
This year, why not try something different? I’m excited to share 34 healthier Christmas appetizer options with you – each one packed with flavor and nutrition, yet still easy to make.
Italian Stuffed Mushrooms
When hosting vegetarian guests, consider serving Italian Stuffed Mushrooms that pack a nutritional punch. These bite-sized treats are filled with sautéed bell peppers, garlic, oregano, basil, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, offering a flavor profile reminiscent of Italy. Not only do these mushrooms tantalize the taste buds, but they also boast impressive health benefits. They’re rich in B vitamins, which support brain function, as well as beta-glucans that promote heart health. Additionally, they contain selenium, a potent antioxidant.While stuffing the mushrooms can be a bit of a challenge due to their small size, it’s essential to cut the filling ingredients into tiny pieces to ensure an even distribution. This can be achieved by hand or with the aid of a food processor for added convenience.Per serving, these Italian Stuffed Mushrooms provide:* Calories: 111* Fats: 4g* Protein: 4g* Carbs: 15g* Fiber: 1g* Sugar: 2gRecipe
Sausage Appetizers with Bacon
Are you a fan of savory flavors? Then these Sausage Appetizers with Bacon are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The combination of spicy Hot Italian Sausage, creamy goat cheese, and sweet apricot preserves is nothing short of a culinary party in your mouth. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply substitute the sausage with chicken sausage. With only 105 calories per serving, this recipe is also a guilt-free indulgence.
Keto Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites
If you’re on a ketogenic diet, finding Christmas appetizers that fit your lifestyle can be challenging. Traditional options are often high in carbs, which can hinder your ketosis progress. However, I’m excited to share these Mini Bites with you, as they contain only 2 grams of net carbs per serving. This means you can indulge without compromising your dietary goals.
Sausage Shrimp Appetizer
Savvy surf and turf enthusiasts, rejoice! This delectable Sausage Shrimp Appetizer is sure to delight. The harmonious union of succulent shrimp and juicy sausage, served with a spicy Sriracha sauce, will leave you craving more. For an added touch of elegance, present the dish on a beautiful dinner platter. Circular in shape, these platters allow for a visually appealing arrangement of the appetizers, while the sauce takes center stage in its own bowl. This indulgent treat is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Per serving, you can expect approximately 145 calories, 13g of fat, 6g of protein, 1g of carbohydrates, and negligible fiber, sugar, and other nutrients.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Indulge in the crispiest, most flavorful chicken wings without the guilt of excess oil. Our Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe is a game-changer. With a mere tablespoon of oil for four servings, you’ll be enjoying juicy interiors and crunchy exteriors while keeping your calorie count in check.
The secret to our success lies in the air fryer’s ability to cook food with minimal oil, allowing you to savor your favorite fried treats in a healthier way. If you’re new to air frying, don’t worry – this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. And if you don’t have an air fryer yet, consider adding one to your holiday wish list or checking out our collection of 200-calorie recipes.
Per Serving:
Calories: 170
Fats: 13g
Protein: 11g
Carbs: 1g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
3-Ingredient Cranberry Bites
Indulge in the sweet and savory combination of these 3-Ingredient Cranberry Bites, perfectly crafted to satisfy your cravings. The flaky, buttery pastry, infused with brie cheese and cranberry sauce, will leave you wanting more. As you take a bite, the rich flavors will unfold, surprising even the most discerning palates. With their delicate appearance, you might be tempted to resist their allure – but we dare you not to try one! The magic lies in the union of the cranberry sauce and brie cheese, a match made in heaven that’s sure to delight. And don’t worry about the ease of preparation; these Bites are a breeze to make. Simply cut your puff pastry sheet into squares, press each square into a mini ceramic muffin tin, add a dollop of brie cheese, and bake for 12 minutes. Let the pastries cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack and filling with cranberry sauce. Voilà! Your taste buds will thank you. And if you’re looking for more delightful treats, be sure to check out our collection of low-calorie snacks!
Rosemary Cashews
Indulge in the addictive flavor of Rosemary Cashews, where earthy rosemary and sweet brown sugar harmonize with a hint of heat from cayenne pepper. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. To make these scrumptious treats, start by toasting cashews in the oven until fragrant. Next, melt butter with your choice of seasonings, then drizzle it over the toasted nuts and return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This simple recipe yields a delicious snack that’s sure to keep you reaching for more. If you’re a fan of these cashews, you might also enjoy our 5-ingredient cashew energy balls, a quick and easy treat perfect for any time of day. Per serving, you can expect approximately 175 calories, with 16g of fats, 2g of protein, 7g of carbohydrates, 1g of fiber, and 4g of sugar.
Pistachio Nut Cheese
If you’re craving a cheesy snack but need to avoid dairy, Pistachio Nut Cheese is an excellent alternative. This vegan cheese substitute boasts a creamy texture and can be sliced like traditional cheese, making it perfect for serving with crackers or toast.
What sets this cheese apart is its rich flavor profile. A combination of garlic powder adds savory notes, while miso paste contributes a tangy taste. The real game-changer, however, is the nutritional yeast, which lends a pleasant cheesy flavor and happens to be incredibly nutritious.
Nutritional yeast is often overlooked, but it’s truly a powerhouse ingredient. Not only does it provide a complete protein profile, making it one of the few plant-based options that do, but it’s also rich in B vitamins, which are fantastic for brain health.
While nutritional yeast is often used to thicken sauces and add umami flavor, you can also use it to make cheese sauces. Just be sure to give it a try! You can find nutritional yeast online or at your local health food store.
What’s more, this recipe requires only 20 minutes of prep time, making it the perfect solution for a quick and easy snack.
Per serving: Calories – 122; Fats – 7.8g; Protein – 5.7g; Carbs – 8.8g; Fiber – 4.4g; Sugar – 2.3g.
Fresh Cranberry Cilantro Dip
Looking for a unique and flavorful dip to serve with crackers? Look no further than this Fresh Cranberry Cilantro Dip, which offers a delightful combination of sweet, sour, spicy, and earthy notes.This dip may be unconventional, but it’s definitely worth trying. The cream cheese provides a rich base, while the fresh cranberries add a tartness that complements the sweetness from sugar. A hint of heat from the jalapeno peppers keeps things interesting, and the cumin adds an earthy depth to the flavor profile.The best part? This dip is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and some minimal prep time. To let the flavors meld together perfectly, simply refrigerate it for a few hours before serving. And when you do, be prepared for a taste sensation that will leave your guests wanting more.
Zucchini Stacks with Goat Cheese
Indulge in the elegance of Zucchini Stacks, a dish that will transport your taste buds to a fine dining experience. The combination of creamy goat cheese nestled between zucchini slices is simply divine. To add texture and depth, top these stacks with crunchy pine nuts, savory bacon pieces, and sweet green peas. This harmonious blend results in a culinary masterpiece that’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious.
The best part? These Zucchini Stacks can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making them the perfect addition to any occasion. If you’re a fan of zucchini, you’ll also enjoy our Parmesan Zucchini Bites recipe for another delightful twist on this versatile ingredient.
Per serving:
Calories: 107
Fats: 9g
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Antipasto Skewers
Looking for a satisfying appetizer to hold you over until dinner? Look no further than these Antipasto Skewers, packed with protein-rich ingredients like chicken sausage and mozzarella balls. The addition of artichoke hearts, black olives, and rosemary stems gives them a distinct Mediterranean flair. What’s more, these skewers require zero grilling, making them the perfect solution for a cold winter’s day or when you just don’t feel like venturing out into the elements. With only 228 calories per serving, these Antipasto Skewers are a guilt-free indulgence. Per serving, they also boast 20g of fats, 10g of protein, 4g of carbohydrates, 1g of fiber, and just 1g of sugar.
Smoked Salmon Dill Ricotta Crostini
Hosting a Christmas gathering and seeking to impress your guests with a sophisticated yet delicious snack? Look no further than these Smoked Salmon Dill Ricotta Crostini. Their elegant appearance belies their delectable taste, as creamy fresh ricotta spread is paired with smoky salmon and served on toasted baguette slices. Not only do they make for an impressive offering, but the ingredients also boast impressive nutritional credentials. Salmon, in particular, is a rich source of brain-boosting omega-3s and protein that will keep you satisfied until the next course. With a serving size boasting just 23 calories, 2g of fat, 1g of protein, 1g of carbohydrates, 1g of fiber, and 1g of sugar, these crostini are a guilt-free indulgence. So why not treat your guests to a taste sensation that’s sure to leave them feeling merry and bright? Simply follow the recipe below.
Pomegranate Salsa
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Pomegranate Salsa, a perfect accompaniment to your favorite tortilla chips. The harmonious blend of jalapeno’s heat, lime juice’s acidity, and red onions’ crunch creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. As the sweetness of honey mingles with the tartness of lime, it’s an unforgettable fiesta in every bite.If you’re looking for a snack to pair with your salsa, look no further than these high-protein tortilla chips. With nearly 20 grams of protein per serving, they’ll keep you satisfied and full, just like having four hard-boiled eggs. And with only 26 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free. The nutrition profile is impressive: 1g fat, 5g carbs, 3g sugar, and 1g fiber per serving.
Caprese Salad Skewers
Make this Christmas a fun and educational experience for your kids by involving them in the cooking process. One easy and delicious way to do so is by making Caprese Salad Skewers together.To begin, grab a toothpick and start assembling the skewers by threading on a cherry tomato, a fresh basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. For an added touch of flavor, top each skewer with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.Not only are these Caprese Salad Skewers a great way to get your kids involved in cooking, but they’re also a nutritious snack option. With approximately 155 calories, 12g of fat, 11g of protein, 3g of carbohydrates, and 1g of fiber per serving, you can feel good about what you’re feeding them.So why not make this Christmas one to remember by cooking up some Caprese Salad Skewers with your kids? It’s a fun and easy way to spend quality time together in the kitchen.
Hummus Wreath
Want to indulge in a festive and delicious treat this holiday season? Look no further than the Hummus Wreath, a creative and tasty way to enjoy your favorite dip. This show-stopping centerpiece features a vibrant array of colors reminiscent of Christmas: emerald green parsley, fiery red cherry tomatoes, snowy white feta, and radiant red pomegranate seeds (optional). To create this edible masterpiece, start by spreading a generous amount of creamy hummus on a large plate, leaving a small circle in the center. This will serve as the base for your wreath. Next, arrange a bowl of crispy pita chips within the hummus ‘circle.’ The parsley mixture, comprised of chopped fresh herbs and a hint of lemon zest, adds a pop of color and freshness to the design. Randomly scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the plate to resemble festive ornaments. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top to create a snowy effect. If desired, add a touch of red with pomegranate seeds for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Enjoy your Hummus Wreath!
Christmas Wreath Cheese Board
Here’s another edible and visually appealing Christmas-themed creation, a Cheese Board that’s almost too beautiful to devour. But once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked! This festive board is packed with an assortment of flavors and textures, featuring cheddar cheese, mozzarella balls, Prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, English cucumbers, grapes, olives, and cranberries. The result is a delightful harmony of creamy, crunchy, sweet, salty, and tangy notes that will impress your dinner guests. What’s more, this cheese board is low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb diet.
To create this masterpiece, you’ll use a circular cutting board as the canvas. Wooden cutting boards are particularly well-suited for this task, adding a rustic charm to the presentation.
Per Serving:
Calories: 255
Fats: 18g
Protein: 15g
Carbs: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Recipe
Pear Prosciutto
Indulge in the ultimate fusion of flavors with this Pear Prosciutto finger food. Thin slices of prosciutto and crumbly blue cheese are carefully paired with succulent pear quarters, topped with a burst of fresh chili and basil leaves. The combination is elevated by a drizzle of warm honey and a sprinkle of black pepper, harmoniously balancing creamy, salty, sweet, and spicy notes in every bite. As a delightful treat, this recipe yields 127 calories per serving, with a satisfying mix of 4g fats, 7g protein, 17g carbohydrates, 2g fiber, and 12g sugar. Impress your friends with this delectable party favor!
Easy Prosciutto Wrapped Pears
Indulge in the perfect balance of savory, spicy, tangy, and sweet with these Prosciutto Wrapped Pears. The combination of arugula, pear slices, and pomegranate arils wrapped in Prosciutto is a match made in heaven. What’s more, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste buds. For instance, you could substitute the pears with cantaloupe for a unique twist. And if you’re feeling extra decadent, why not add some creamy brie cheese to take it to the next level? With only 68 calories per serving, these bite-sized treats are an excellent choice for a guilt-free snack. Here’s what you can expect from each serving: Calories: 68, Fats: 4g, Protein: 1g, Carbs: 8g, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 5g.
Spiced Cheese Log
Are you in the mood for a flavorful snack? Look no further than this Spiced Cheese Log, which combines the warmth of spices with the richness of cheese. By rolling your cheese log in a blend of black pepper, pink peppercorn, green pepper, crushed red chili pepper, and salt, you’ll create a deliciously spicy treat that’s perfect for those who love a little heat. And it’s not just a tasty indulgence – this cheese log is also a nutritious one, packed with calcium to support bone health and a significant amount of protein to help meet your daily needs. So go ahead, serve it up with some crackers or enjoy it on its own. This Spiced Cheese Log is sure to become a new favorite. Per serving: Calories 333, Fats 24g, Protein 22g, Carbs 8g, Fiber 3g, Sugar 1g.
Butternut Squash Crostini
Imagine the look of delight on your dinner guests’ faces when you serve them this Butternut Squash Crostini, a culinary masterpiece that combines the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Crunchy garlicky baguette slices provide the base for rich goat cheese, perfectly caramelized butternut squash, and a drizzle of sweet and tangy balsamic fig glaze. The combination is further elevated by the addition of crunchy fried sage leaves, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. With seven spices at play, this recipe requires a bit of prep work, but trust us, it’s worth the effort. And with its impressive nutritional profile – 256 calories per serving, with 18g of fat, 6g of protein, and 18g of carbs – you can indulge without guilt.
Reindeer Cheese Ball Appetizer
Imagine a Christmas party without adorable appetizers that capture the essence of the season. It’s hard to imagine, isn’t it? That’s why these Rudolph-inspired cheese balls are sure to impress your guests. The combination of creamy cheese, crunchy pretzels, and savory bacon is nothing short of genius. To create these festive finger foods, start by rolling a cheese ball in crumbled bacon to form the head. Next, use a cube of fresh tomato as the nose, adding a pop of color to the overall design. Finally, use pretzel pieces to craft the antlers that give these bites their recognizable shape. Not only are they visually stunning, but they’re also surprisingly delicious. The tangy cheese and sweet pretzels strike the perfect balance, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them. With a per-serving nutrition breakdown of 106 calories, 7g of fat, 7g of protein, 4g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and 2g of sugar, you can indulge in these tasty treats without worrying about compromising your diet. So go ahead, get creative, and serve up some holiday cheer with these Rudolph-inspired cheese balls.
Baked Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
As Christmas approaches, the spotlight shines brightly on turkey – understandably so. However, it’s wonderful to mix things up before the big day arrives. One way to do this is by incorporating veggies into your meal. But let’s be real, who says they have to be boring? That’s where these show-stopping Buffalo Cauliflower Wings come in. They elevate the humble veggie experience to new heights – and they’re surprisingly addictive.The magic happens when you coat those cauliflower florets in a savory batter, then roll them in spicy Buffalo sauce. The result is nothing short of extraordinary: crispy morsels that are both delicious and tantalizingly flavorful. And if you want to take it to the next level, dip them in creamy Ranch dressing – trust us, it’s a game-changer.When it comes down to it, these Cauliflower Wings are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with a side of savory goodness. Here’s what you can expect:Per Serving:Calories: 162Fats: 13gProtein: 5gCarbs: 8gFiber: 4gSugar: 3gRecipe
Stuffed Mini Baked Potatoes
Elevate your appetizer repertoire with a simple yet impressive recipe for Stuffed Mini Baked Potatoes. The star of the show is a mini potato filled to the brim with gooey, melted cheese. But that’s not all – these bite-sized treats can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Choose from an array of toppings such as smoked salmon, red chili, ham, and chives for a classic combination. For added flair, try pairing with chorizo for a spicy kick or brie and dried cranberries for a sweet and savory surprise. With each serving clocking in at just 55 calories, you can indulge guilt-free. Here’s the recipe:
Air Fryer Baked Feta Cheese
Looking for a unique and delicious dip to accompany your fresh veggies? Look no further than this Air Fryer Baked Feta Cheese. The creamy, warm cheese is the perfect contrast to the crisp, cold vegetables, and its salty flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey and a hint of heat from the chili flakes. This recipe is sure to become a favorite among Greek food enthusiasts.
Per Serving:
Calories: 130
Fats: 10g
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Recipe:
Butternut Squash Hummus
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Butternut Squash Hummus, a plant-based twist on the classic dip. The roasted squash brings forth a natural sweetness, expertly balanced by the tangy pomegranate arils and cranberries. Meanwhile, the fresh rosemary adds an aromatic depth that will elevate your snack game. This vegan delight boasts impressive nutritional credentials: per serving, it contains 26 calories, 1g of fat, no protein, 5g of carbohydrates, and a respectable 1g of fiber, along with a moderate 2g of sugar.
Vegan Lettuce Wraps
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with these Vegan Lettuce Wraps. The lentil filling is elevated by the infusion of vegetable broth, sautéed onions, garlic, fresh ginger, and crunchy walnuts, creating a truly satisfying meal. Not only are they mouthwateringly delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch, boasting an impressive amount of plant-based protein and fiber. In fact, one serving provides 60% of the daily recommended intake of fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to boost their overall health. For more 400-calorie recipes that strike the perfect balance between taste and nutrition, check out our collection.
Rosemary Sun-Dried Tomato Olives
Indulge in the flavors of Greece with this effortless, no-cook appetizer – Rosemary Sun-Dried Tomatoes. With only a 5-minute preparation time, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress. The harmonious balance of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and salty olives is elevated by the freshness of rosemary, transporting you to a warm Mediterranean island. Here’s what you’ll get with each serving: 194 calories, 21g fat, 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, 0g fiber, and 0g sugar.