27 Mouth-Watering Christmas Appetizers
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Getting ready for Christmas? Check out these flavorful, nutritious, yummy Christmas appetizers that are super easy to make.
Christmas Day can get quite hectic. You have the turkey in the oven.
And you’re making all the sides. But dinner won’t be ready for a couple of hours.
But you don’t want you or your guests to go hungry before then. So you figure you’ll have some appetizers on hand.
But traditional Christmas appetizers can be so unhealthy. Before you know it, you’re battling the dreaded post-Christmas holiday bulge.
So what can you do? Make Healthy Christmas Appetizers instead.
Today I’m sharing 27 Healthy Christmas Appetizers. They’re healthy yet taste great too.
Even Santa Claus would approve!
Table of Contents
- 1. Italian Stuffed Mushrooms
- 2. Sausage Appetizers with Bacon
- 3. Keto Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites
- 4. Sausage Shrimp Appetizer
- 5. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
- 6. 3-Ingredient Cranberry Bites
- 7. Rosemary Cashews
- 8. Pistachio Nut Cheese
- 9. Fresh Cranberry Cilantro Dip
- 10. Zucchini Stacks with Goat Cheese
- 11. Antipasto Skewers
- 12. Smoked Salmon Dill Ricotta Crostini
- 13. Pomegranate Salsa
- 14. Caprese Salad Skewers
- 15. Hummus Wreath
- 16. Christmas Wreath Cheese Board
- 17. Pear Prosciutto
- 18. Easy Prosciutto Wrapped Pears
- 19. Spiced Cheese Log
- 20. Butternut Squash Crostini
- 21. Reindeer Cheese Ball Appetizer
- 22. Baked Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
- 23. Stuffed Mini Baked Potatoes
- 24. Air Fryer Baked Feta Cheese
- 25. Butternut Squash Hummus
- 26. Vegan Lettuce Wraps
- 27. Rosemary Sun-Dried Tomato Olives
1. Italian Stuffed Mushrooms
Source: juliascuisine.com
Are any of your guests vegetarian? Serve them these Italian Stuffed Mushrooms.
They’re stuffed with sauteed bell peppers, garlic, oregano, basil, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. So they have yummy Italian flavors.
Besides being yummy, mushrooms are good for you too. They’re packed with brain-boosting B vitamins.
And they contain beta-glucans that boost heart health. They even contain selenium, a powerful antioxidant.
Now it can be hard stuffing the mushrooms. That’s because it’s a small space.
So make sure you cut your veggies really small. You can do this by hand.
Or, for extra convenience, just use a food processor like this instead.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 111
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
2. Sausage Appetizers with Bacon
Source: glutenfreepalate.com
Are you a meat-lovers? These Sausage Appetizers with Bacon have your name written all over them.
They’re so delicious. The spiciness of the Hot Italian Sausage is offset by the creaminess of the mild goat cheese.
And the savory of the bacon is complemented by the sweetness of the apricot preserves. It’s a festive party in your mouth.
Not a fan of the spice? You can use chicken sausage instead.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 105
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
3. Keto Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites
Source: lowcarb-nocarb.com
Are you on a keto diet? Then Christmas Appetizers can be tricky.
That’s because they’re often full of carbs. So, they can do a number on your waistline.
These Mini Bites contain only 2 grams of net carbs. So you’re not worrying about your ketosis.
These Mini Bites are pretty yummy. You’ve got the meatiness of the bacon and ground beef.
The celery and onion provide aromatic flavors. And the fresh oregano and marjoram add freshness.
Meanwhile, the heavy cream provides lusciousness. Your tastebuds will be doing a happy dance.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 96
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
4. Sausage Shrimp Appetizer
Source: glutenfreepalate.com
Do you love surf and turf? This Sausage Shrimp Appetizer is for you.
It’s your classic surf and turf. Juicy sausage and succulent shrimp are paired for the perfect bite.
And they’re served with a spicy, creamy Sriracha sauce. I bet you can’t have just one.
To make this appetizer even classier, serve on a nice dinner platter. I like these pretty platters here.
They’re circular, so you can lay your appetizers in a circle. Then you can put your Sriracha sauce in a bowl right in the center.
Enjoy!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 145
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
5. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Source: nourishplate.com
Want to enjoy chicken wings – without all the grease? These Air Fryer Chicken Wings hit the spot.
They’re juicy on the inside – and extra crispy on the outside. And they’re flavored to perfection.
You’ll be licking your fingers. Yet they’re pretty light.
That’s because you’re using very little oil. In fact, you’re using only one tablespoon for 4 servings.
Why are you able to do this? Because you’re using an air fryer.
I love air fryers because they allow you to enjoy your favorite fried foods. But you’re able to do that more healthily.
Don’t have an air fryer in your kitchen? You can add one to your Christmas list here. Check out more 200 calorie recipes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 170
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
6. 3-Ingredient Cranberry Bites
Source: veronikaskitchen.com
Do you crave sweets? These 3-Ingredient Cranberry Bites are sure to satisfy your cravings.
They’re flaky, buttery, and tasty. And they’re so pretty – you may not want to eat them.
When you bite into them, they’re oozing with brie cheese and cranberry sauce. I bet you didn’t see that coming.
The cranberry sauce and brie cheese are a winning combination.
Making these Bites is very easy too. Cut your puff pastry sheet into squares.
Then press each square into a mini muffin tin. These mini muffin tins are made with ceramic.
So your Cranberry Bites won’t stick to them. Add your brie cheese and bake for about 12 minutes.
Let your pastry sheets cool for a few minutes. Next, transfer to a wire rack and fill with cranberry sauce.
Bon appetit! Check out more low calorie snacks!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 214
- Fats: 13.1g
- Protein: 5.6g
- Carbs: 18.8g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 7.5g
7. Rosemary Cashews
Source: thefreshcooky.com
Craving the munchies? Have some of these Rosemary Cashews.
Each bite is an explosion of flavor. You’re getting the earthiness of rosemary and the sweetness of brown sugar.
And the butter makes them nice and butter. Meanwhile, the cayenne pepper adds some heat.
You’ll be munching on these all day long.
Making them is easy too. Start by toasting your cashews in the oven.
Then melt some butter, adding your seasonings. Pour your melted seasoned butter on your toasted cashews.
Then place back in the oven for about 5 more minutes. Easy peasy. Love cashews? You might also like these 5-ingredient cashew energy balls.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 175
- Fats: 16g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
8. Pistachio Nut Cheese
Source: mypureplants.com
Want to nibble on cheese – but avoiding dairy? This Pistachio Nut Cheese is perfect for you.
It’s creamy and sliceable, just like cheese. So you can serve it with crackers or on toast.
And it’s full of flavor – even non-vegans will love it.
The key to the taste is the spices. The garlic powder provides savory, and the miso paste adds tanginess.
And the nutritional yeast adds a pleasant cheesy taste. Besides being cheesy, nutritional yeast is well “nutritional.”
It’s one of the few vegan complete proteins. So, it contains all the essential amino acids.
And it’s packed with B vitamins that are great for your brain.
Besides using nutritional cheese for your cheese sauce, you can add it to sauces. This helps thicken your sauces and adds umami flavors.
Want to give nutritional yeast a try? You can get some here.
What I love about this cheese is that it takes just 20 minutes to make. So you can make this cheese in a pinch.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 122
- Fats: 7.8g
- Protein: 5.7g
- Carbs: 8.8g
- Fiber: 4.4g
- Sugar: 2.3g
9. Fresh Cranberry Cilantro Dip
Source: saltandbaker.com
Need some dip to serve with crackers? This Fresh Cranberry Cilantro Dip is an excellent option.
This Cranberry Cilantro Dip is quite unique. It’s definitely not your run-of-the-mill dip.
But don’t let that scare you. It’s creamy and festive.
The tartness of fresh cranberries melds wonderfully with the cream cheese. And you’re getting sweetness from sugar and heat from the jalapeno.
And the cumin adds earthy notes. Your tastebuds won’t realize what hit them.
Making this dip doesn’t take much time. But to let the flavors develop fully, refrigerate for a few hours.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 167
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
10. Zucchini Stacks with Goat Cheese
Source: anediblemosaic.com
Want an Instagram-worthy appetizer? Make these Zucchini Stacks.
They’re so dainty and elegant. People will think you’re at a fine dining restaurant.
But looks asides, these zucchini stacks are so good. You’ve got creamy goat cheese sandwiched between zucchini slices.
And they’re topped with crunchy pine nuts, salty bacon pieces, and sweet green peas. They’re super yum.
And the best part? These Zucchini Stacks take just 20 minutes to prepare. Yay! Love zucchini? You might also enjoy these parmesan zucchini bites!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 107
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
11. Antipasto Skewers
Source: easyhealthllc.com
Need a hearty appetizer to fill you up until dinner? You’ll want to have one of these Antipasto Skewers.
They’re full of protein. So, they fill you up quite nicely.
They’re also packed with Mediterranean flavors. That’s from the mozzarella balls, artichoke hearts, black olives, and chicken sausage.
And the rosemary stems make these Skewers so holiday-like. Take a pic before you eat these skewers!
Best of all, these skewers require no grilling. So you don’t have to go out in the cold.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 228
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
12. Smoked Salmon Dill Ricotta Crostini
Source: therusticfoodie.com
Do you have guests over for Christmas? Wow, them with this Smoked Salmon Dill Ricotta Crostini.
Now that was a mouthful. They look just as fancy as they sound.
Better yet, they taste wonderful. You’re spreading creamy fresh ricotta spread on toasted baguette slices.
And you’re topping them with smoked salmon. Can you get any fancier than that?
Besides being tasty, salmon is highly nutritious. It’s packed with brain-boosting omega-3s.
And it’s a good source of protein that fills you up. So bring on the Salmon Crostinis!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 23
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
13. Pomegranate Salsa
Source: twohealthykitchens.com
Need some salsa to dip your tortilla chips in? This Pomegranate Salsa is perfect for that.
It’s very colorful and flavorful. You’re getting the heat of the jalapeno melding with the acidity of the lime juice.
And the red onions add a lovely crunch. Meanwhile, the sweet honey is offset by the tart lime juice.
It’s definitely a fiesta in your mouth.
Need some tortilla chips to go with your salsa? Give these tortilla chips a try.
They’re high in protein. In fact, one serving has close to 20 grams of protein.
That’s as much protein as 4 hard-boiled eggs. So you actually feel full after eating these tortilla chips.
Now that’s what I like to hear.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 26
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
14. Caprese Salad Skewers
Source: homecookedharvest.com
Looking to put your kids to work on Christmas Day? These Caprese Salad Skewers are perfect for that.
They’re super simple to make. Start by getting a toothpick.
Then add a cherry tomato, basil leaf, and mozzarella ball. Drizzle with olive oil, adding salt and pepper.
To make these skewers even yummier, top with balsamic glaze. Now that’s a wrap.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 155
- Fats: 12g
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
15. Hummus Wreath
Source: twohealthykitchens.com
Want to have your cake, ahem Christmas wreath, and eat it too? Make this Hummus Wreath.
It’s full of Christmas colors like green, red and white. Pretty!
To make your wreath, spread hummus on a large plate. You’ll want to leave a small circle in the middle.
That’s where you’ll put your bowl of pita chips. Then add your leaves, ahem, parsley mixture on top of the hummus.
Next, sprinkle your halved cherry tomatoes around. You’ll want to spread them randomly.
This way, they’ll look like Christmas ornaments. Finally, sprinkle some crumbled feta.
This will form the snow.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 35
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
16. Christmas Wreath Cheese Board
Source: appetizeraddiction.com
Here’s another edible Christmas wreath. We’re on a roll, right?
This Cheese Board is so festive and pretty. It’s almost a shame to eat it.
But you’ll definitely want to dig right in. It’s filled with cheddar cheese, mozzarella balls, Prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, English cucumbers, grapes, olives, and cranberries.
So you’ve got a nice meld of creamy, crunchy, sweet, salty, and tangy. Your dinner guests will be so impressed.
What’s more, this cheese board is low in carbs. So it’s perfect for low-carb eaters.
To make this cheese board, you’ll be using a circular cutting board as your canvas. Wooden cutting boards like this are best.
That’s because they add a country feel.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 255
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
17. Pear Prosciutto
Source: appetizeraddiction.com
Looking for some fancy finger food? You can’t get much fancier than this Pear Prosciutto.
Prosciutto and blue cheese are nestled in pear quarters. And they’re topped with fresh chili and basil leaves.
Finally, they’re drizzled with honey and black pepper.
So you get creamy, salty, sweet, and spiciness – all in one dainty bite. Your friends will definitely know where the party is happening!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 127
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
18. Easy Prosciutto Wrapped Pears
Source: cookathomemom.com
Need even more Prosciutto? These Prosciutto Wrapped Pears are for you.
You’re wrapping arugula, pear slices, and pomegranate arils in Prosciutto. So you have the perfect balance of savory, spicy, tangy, and sweet.
What I love is that you can easily customize these wrapped pears. If you don’t have pears, you can use cantaloupe.
You can also add brie cheese for more decadence.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 68
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
19. Spiced Cheese Log
Source: masalaherb.com
Are you serving crackers? Serve them with this Spiced Cheese Log.
You’re rolling your cheese log in several spices. These include black pepper, pink peppercorn, green pepper, crushed red chili pepper, and salt.
So, your cheese is nice and spicy – perfect if you love the heat.
Besides being delicious, this cheese log is nutritious. It’s rich in calcium which supports bone health.
It also contains a ton of protein. In fact, one serving provides close to half of your daily protein needs.
So, pass the cheese, please!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 333
- Fats: 24g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
20. Butternut Squash Crostini
Source: thehealthfulideas.com
Want to wow your dinner guests? Serve them this Butternut Squash Crostini
They’ll be saying “Mmm!” with every bite. You’ve got crunchy garlicky baguette slices.
And they’re topped with rich goat cheese and perfectly caramelized butternut squash. But that’s not all.
You’re drizzling them with a balsamic fig glaze. And you’re garnishing them with crunchy fried sage.
So you’re getting a combo of crunchy, creamy, sweet, tangy, and savory. It’s a food lover’s dream.
Now you will be using several spices: 7 to be exact. So look for your measuring spoons.
I prefer stainless steel measuring spoons like these. That’s because they’re stain and rust-resistant. Check out 300 calorie recipes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 256
- Fats: 18.9g
- Protein: 6.2g
- Carbs: 18.1g
- Fiber: 3.6g
- Sugar: 4.6g
21. Reindeer Cheese Ball Appetizer
Source: sustainmycookinghabit.com
There are cute Christmas appetizers – and there are CUTE Christmas appetizers. These are definitely CUTE ones.
These appetizers are shaped like Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer. You’re rolling a cheese ball in bacon pieces to make the head.
Then you’re using a piece of cubed tomato as the nose. Finally, you’re using pretzel pieces as the antlers.
That’s genius, right?
Besides being cute, these cheese balls are so delicious. And the crunchy pretzels complement the creamy cheese perfectly.
You’ll definitely be popping these cuties in your mouth. Sorry, Rudolph!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 106
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
22. Baked Healthy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Source: wholesomeyum.com
Christmas dinner is definitely all about the turkey. So, it’s nice to lighten things up before then.
After all, it doesn’t hurt to have a veggie or two. But who wants boring old veggies?
That’s where these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings come in handy. They make eating veggies so much more interesting – and tastier too.
You’re coating them in a batter. Then you’re rolling them in Buffalo sauce.
What you get is simply magical. You get crispy morsels of deliciousness.
These Cauliflower Wings are great on their own. But for even more yumminess, dip them in Ranch dressing.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 162
- Fats: 13g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
23. Stuffed Mini Baked Potatoes
Source: amummytoo.co.uk
Looking to up your appetizer game? Make these Stuffed Mini Baked Potatoes.
On the menu are mini potatoes stuffed with ooey gooey melted cheese. Then they’re topped with your choice of toppings.
These include smoked salmon, red chili, ham, and chives. So you can customize them for various dietary needs.
Plus, there are other ways to switch things up.
Like it spicy? Add some chorizo.
Feeling adventurous? Add some brie and dried cranberries.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 55
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
24. Air Fryer Baked Feta Cheese
Source: recipesfromapantry.com
Need a dip for your veggies? Make this Air Fryer Baked Feta Cheese.
It’s creamy, tasty, and warm. So it makes a nice contrast to your fresh, cold veggies.
And you’re getting feta’s saltiness mingled with the honey’s sweetness. Meanwhile, the chili flakes add a hint of heat.
You’re definitely going to want to get your Greek on.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 130
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
25. Butternut Squash Hummus
Source: runningtothekitchen.com
Looking for a vegan dip for your veggies? This Butternut Squash Hummus is a great option.
It’s classic hummus with a twist. Or I should say a couple of twists.
The addition of the roasted Butternut Squash adds natural sweetness. And the pomegranate arils and cranberries add festive tartness.
Meanwhile, the fresh rosemary adds aromatic flavors. You won’t be looking at hummus the same way after this.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 26
- Fats: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
26. Vegan Lettuce Wraps
Source: veganhuggs.com
Looking for even more vegan eats? These Vegan Lettuce Wraps are for you.
They’re crispy and refreshing. The lentil filling is super tasty and filling.
That’s because you’re infusing the lentils in vegetable broth. And you’re adding sauteed onions, garlic, fresh ginger, and walnuts.
So you’re getting tons of flavors and textures.
Besides being delicious, these Wraps are nutritious. They contain a ton of plant-based protein.
And they’re packed with fiber. In fact, one serving provides 60% of your daily fiber needs.
Now that’s a whole lotta fiber! Check out more 400 calorie recipes here.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 376
- Fats: 16g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fiber: 15g
- Sugar: 9g
27. Rosemary Sun-Dried Tomato Olives
Source: culinaryginger.com
Are you hunting for an easy no-cook appetizer? Make these Rosemary Sun-Dried Tomatoes.
They take only 5 minutes to make. Yet they taste wonderful.
That’s because they’re full of lovely Greek flavors. The tangy of the sun-dried tomatoes and the saltiness of the olives is a winning combination.
Add the fresh rosemary. And you’ll feel like you’re on a warm Greek Island.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 194
- Fats: 21g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g