The holiday season is a time for celebration, relaxation, and, of course, delicious food. While it is the perfect time to indulge and enjoy, it can also be a relief to have some healthy options around! Personally, I start to feel physically and mentally tired if I am constantly eating unhealthy foods. My energy levels are lower, and it’s because my body isn’t fueled by the nutrients it is used to having. If you find yourself feeling this way, incorporating some healthy appetizers into your festivities can be a game-changer. See below for 10 healthy appetizers for the holidays that will help you savor the season and feel your best.
1. Sweet Potato Bites – What Molly Made
Sweet potatoes are a classic holiday staple, and this recipe takes them to a new level of elegance! Topped with pomegranates, these sweet potato bites are a festive and healthy appetizer.
2. Wedge Salad Skewers – Princess Pinky Girl
I love a good salad, but let’s be real…it doesn’t always make it onto the holiday plate. With these wedge salad skewers, you can make sure you have your holiday salad in a fun and easy way.
3. Shrimp Cocktail – Natasha’s Kitchen
I love a good shrimp cocktail. It’s light, it’s tasty, and it’s packed with protein. This recipe is super easy, through baking the shrimp in the oven and making a quick cocktail sauce. Feeling a little extra tired? Check out your local grocery store to see if they have pre-cooked shrimp, pre-made cocktail sauce, or even a fresh made platter,
4. Tomato Basil Bruschetta – A Sweet Pea Chef
When appetizers often involve charcuterie, I love an option to top my toasted bread with bruschetta! It’s light, fresh, and tastes like restaurant quality!
5. Simple Crudités Platter – The Mediterranean Dish
A crudités platter is a classic appetizer for a reason. There is something so tasty about fresh veggies dipped in ranch, and you can easily fill up a plate while still feeling good after! This recipe even includes some fruits for a little extra sweetness.
6. Slow Cooker Cranberry Turkey Meatballs – Food Meanderings
For a lighter take on cocktail meatballs, this recipe uses turkey instead of ground beef. And to add in some holiday spirit, the cranberry barbecue sauce they are slowly cooked in is delicious!
7. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites – Feel Good Foodie
While this may not be the most traditional holiday appetizer, it sure is a crowd pleaser! Cauliflower has taken the world by storm in it’s many capacities. If you love buffalo chicken bites, you are likely to love this buffalo cauliflower too. The best part? It’s nice and crispy without the oily deep fry.
8. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – The Kitchen Girl
If you are a fan of hummus, try making your own homemade! It isn’t too difficult and tastes so fresh and light. This roasted red pepper recipe is one of my personal favorite flavors.
9. Eggplant Caponata – The Pioneer Woman
If you are a fan of eggplant and roasted peppers, this recipe is for you! Made with fresh and tender veggies, this is a tasty alternative to the classic bruschetta.
10. Festive Pomegranate Guacamole – Cookie and Kate
Guacamole is one of my family’s favorite appetizers. And it is surprisingly easy to make – we even prefer our own homemade guac to restaurant style! This recipe gets fun and festive with bright red pomegranates on top.
I hope you enjoy trying one of these easy and healthy appetizers this holiday season! The best part is, you can keep going back for more while still feeling great. Wishing you and your loved ones happy holidays!