Holiday Appetizers I’m Bookmarking (and Trying) This Season
Easy, Elevated Ideas That Feel Special Without the Stress
I’ll be honest—I’m not the person who has a long list of “signature holiday appetizers” I’ve been making for years. What I am, however, is very good at curating.
Every holiday season, I find myself bookmarking recipes, saving ideas, and mentally noting the things that feel doable and elevated. This year, instead of pretending I’ve mastered them all, I’m leaning into the reality: these are appetizers I’m excited to try—and I think you might be too.
If you’re hosting (or bringing something along) and want options that feel festive without being overwhelming, here are a few ideas I’ve come across and plan to experiment with this season.
1. Whipped Ricotta with Honey, Herbs & Lemon
This one keeps popping up for a reason.
It’s simple, beautiful, and endlessly adaptable. Whipped ricotta feels luxurious without requiring much effort, and you can customize it based on what you have on hand—fresh herbs, citrus zest, a drizzle of honey or olive oil.
Serve it with:
Crostini
Crackers
Warm bread
It’s the kind of appetizer that looks impressive but feels approachable.
2. Puff Pastry Anything
Puff pastry is one of those shortcuts I fully support.
Whether it’s:
Puff pastry pinwheels
Baked brie wrapped in pastry
Savory twists with cheese and herbs
It delivers that “wow” factor without asking too much of you. Into the oven, out looking gorgeous.
3. A Very Good Cheese Board (No Overthinking)
I truly believe a well-curated cheese board can count as an appetizer and a centerpiece.
A few tips I’m keeping in mind:
Choose 3 cheeses max (soft, hard, something bold)
Add one sweet element (jam, honey, fruit)
Add one crunchy element (nuts, crackers, breadsticks)
You don’t need a million things—just thoughtful balance.
4. Roasted Grapes with Burrata
This one feels like a sleeper hit.
Roasted grapes become jammy and sweet, and when paired with burrata, olive oil, and a little salt? Chef’s kiss. It feels unexpected and festive without being complicated.
5. Store-Bought, Elevated
Let’s normalize this.
Great olives, marinated vegetables, high-quality dips, or even a really good spread from a local shop can absolutely be part of your appetizer lineup. A nice bowl, a drizzle of olive oil, and intention go a long way.
I’m giving myself permission this season to try new things without pressure. Hosting doesn’t require mastery — just curiosity and care.
If you’re like me and enjoy gathering people but don’t want to overextend yourself, let this be your sign to bookmark, test, and enjoy the process. The joy is in the trying — and in sharing it with the people you love.