My family eats a lot of Brussels sprouts, and this recipe is one of our very most favorites. The perfectly caramelized sprouts are tender but not overcooked. Add to that some sweet-tart pops of chewy dried cranberries, plus toasty, crunchy pecans, and an alluring drizzle of sweet-and-spicy honey ... and you've got a headliner side dish that just might (almost) outshine the prime rib!

Of course you'll need some green beans to go with your prime rib, and these beauties are the ultimate in simplicity, yet they don’t taste simple at all. You’ll be surprised how complex and delicious they are, with deep flavor thanks to the magic of oven-roasting. Little red potatoes are a fun addition if you like two-for-one dishes!

Yorkshire Puddings are a savory cross between a popover and a soufflé, and they're an absolutely classic accompaniment to prime rib and Sunday roast. But this version's also got a little surprise upgrade for you: they're secretly a bit healthier, since they swap in whole wheat flour for half of the white flour that's normally used! (If you want to peek at a "basic" version, the BBC's got one for you, but why not take the upgrade if you can, right?!?) And don't miss the great suggestions for adding extra flavor from herbs or cheese ... yum!

Garlic butter mushrooms are a must-have with prime rib! This recipe features portobellos, but note that you can substitute other varieties like button mushrooms to create a more old-school, steakhouse vibe in your sautéed mushrooms.

This ultra-easy recipe leverages a unique high-heat roasting technique to give you HUGE flavor with almost no effort, which is perfect for busy hosts. With lots of ideas to help you change it up and try different flavor additions, this ticks all the boxes for a low-stress but delicious special occasion side dish. Air fryer lovers: try this Air Fryer Asparagus version, too!

These little potatoes have perfectly crisped, lightly browned exteriors and fluffy interiors, with just a little saltiness and plenty of rosemary (although you can adjust that to your taste). So, so delicious, and a great textural contrast to juicy roast! And yet they require just a few ingredients you can keep on hand in the pantry, so they're an absolute snap to throw together.

A mainstay at high-end steakhouses like Morton's and Ruth's Chris, creamed spinach is a classic side dish for prime rib. This super-easy version uses fresh or frozen spinach along with flavorful onions and garlic, and offers loads of ways to make your creamy greens lighter and healthier ... or more rich and indulgent.

After their first bake, these special twice-baked potatoes are filled with a delightful mixture featuring cream cheese and a little brown sugar and cinnamon, and then topped with pecans before their second trip through the oven.

This vibrantly beautiful salad truly is fit for a celebration, and worthy of a place alongside your exquisite prime rib! Pretty greens are studded with crunchy pistachios, sweet and tangy pomegranate arils, and juicy oranges. It's all topped off with a sprinkling of creamy goat cheese and a refreshingly light champagne vinaigrette. For serving with a Christmas holiday menu, you can shape it as a festive wreath, with the delicious dressing at the center!

Perfectly, beautifully simple. Just 1 main ingredient and 2 minutes of hands-on time … plus a surprisingly delicious technique! You'll be making these baby carrots again and again, long after your special dinner celebration is over and that prime rib feast is a distant memory.

How can a cheesy, garlic topping ever be wrong? Especially since garlic, broccoli and cheese are all top-level delicious when cozied up next to succulent prime rib! Super easy but a little more interesting than standard roasted broccoli.

Sliced acorn squash is oven roasted in a sweet and spicy butter sauce, then topped with toasted pumpkin seeds, pomegranate arils, and orange zest for a holiday table showstopper! If you're serving prime rib for a non-holiday occasion, try this gorgeous Roasted Delicata Squash recipe, without the Christmas pomegranates and winter-y oranges.

Can't decide which vegetable side dish to make alongside your prime rib roast? Heck, make them all! This gorgeous, colorful mixture has plenty of veggie options to satisfy everyone at the table. Includes tips and suggestions for other vegetables to swap in to suit your tastes.

A healthy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, that your family just might like even better than spuds. They're light and creamy with a sweet, nutty note from the garlic and a pop of fresh herbs ... lovely paired with beefy prime rib!

Made with roasted beets, pears, walnuts, rocket salad, and a fresh mint vinaigrette, this is both refreshing and also visually stunning!

Creamy, sweet butternut squash is highlighted by a combination of toasted pine nuts and pecans, honey, garlic, and a cascade of rich goat cheese. Easy but so flavorful and pretty!

Crispy bacon, crunchy cashews and flavorful shallots combine with a simple, punchy sauce to elevate sautéed Brussels sprouts to a truly special side dish! The big secret here is NOT to overcook those enticing confetti sprouts, so they're warmed through but fluffy and fresh-tasting instead of limply overdone. Quick and easy!

This is one of the most popular recipes we've ever shared, and one that we make in our own home again and again ... all year, every year. If you haven't tried it yet, now is the perfect time!

Grape Salad is a must-have classic at many families’ holiday buffets. What's so nice about serving it at a prime rib dinner is that it's really light and refreshing – a welcome counterpoint to the heavier beef and the savory vegetable side dishes.

With loads of great ratings, this simple recipe combines two steakhouse favorites – sautéed spinach and garlicky mushrooms – into one fabulous, balsamic-drizzled side dish winner.

Oven-roasting adds so much depth of flavor to the sweet carrots, nutty parsnips and fluffy red potatoes … plus those yummy, toasty brown edges! They're fantastic on their own – and even more addictive with a little Honey-Dijon Drizzle to bring all the flavors together.

Skip the gloppy green bean casserole that so often lurks at holiday buffets. Instead, drizzle your flavorful, oven-roasted beans with a "lick-the-plate" balsamic browned butter sauce, and toss on some crunchy almonds for extra texture. Seriously fabulous!

Most traditional mashed potato recipes are loaded with fat and can be a little heavy, especially served with a big, belt-loosening Christmas dinner or special occasion menu. But they're actually easy to lighten up a little, especially when you add in a bit of flavorful cheddar and parmesan ... and bake them in a casserole for a melty, golden brown top "crust"! As a bonus: these creamy mashed potatoes reheat great and can even be frozen ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Brussels sprouts are a common pairing with prime rib, but you don't actually have to cook your sprouts, especially if you're short on time. Just grab some shredded Brussels sprouts or a "superfoods" blend, add some irresistible mix-ins like crunchy pistachios and sweet-tart dried cranberries … and then toss it all with a delicious Maple-Balsamic Dressing. Ready in about 5 minutes flat. Fast but special!

A touch of browned butter makes this feel extra-special, and a clever microwave technique makes it extra-fast. Surprisingly, satisfyingly delicious, and absolutely ideal at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and cozy, wintertime dinner parties.

This takes the traditional prime rib side dish of roasted broccoli to the next level! Broccolini is milder and sweeter than broccoli, with elegant, longer stalks. Here it's artfully sprinkled with a unique mixture of lemon, thyme, and pancetta bread crumbs.

Super creamy and accented with maple syrup and thyme. The recipe card offers an interesting twist of using both sweet potatoes and butternut squash, although the author explains that you can stick to only sweet potatoes if you prefer. Includes lots of yummy ideas for toppings and flavorful mix-ins (like, maybe pecans, marshmallows and brown sugar for a traditional sweet potato casserole vibe)!

Although it has just 3 simple ingredients, this is a very special dish. I bet you'll be surprised! Lusciously rich browned butter and crunchy walnuts are a great way to easily pump up flavor and texture. It’s super fast and easy, too, since the cabbage is cooked very quickly, to ensure it stays lively and fresh-tasting.

Made with crunchy, seasoned bread crumbs, this highly rated recipe results in crispy perfection on the outside, and tender zucchini on the inside! Serve it as-is, or with one of several suggested dipping sauce recipes. This is specifically an air fryer recipe – but you can also try this stovetop Sautéed Zucchini or this Oven-Roasted Zucchini recipe, if you prefer.

This fresh, healthy salad features humble kale, all dressed up with big umami flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, feta and parmesan cheese, and a balsamic vinegar dressing. The creamy cannellini beans, flecks of red onions, and optional flatbread croutons add loads of textural interest to this delicious side dish!

Crispy cauliflower gets a lively punch of flavors from garlic, paprika, onion powder and lemon-pepper seasoning. It's kind of like a classed-up, dinner-party-worthy version of the lemon-pepper chicken wings everybody loves on game day ... and mmmmmmm ... such bright flavors to complement meaty prime rib! Includes both oven and air fryer directions.

Re-imagine the marshmallow-topped Thanksgiving dinner sweet potato casserole! This unique and extra-festive spin features potato slices baked in a spiced orange-maple glaze, then sprinkled with juicy, bright pomegranate arils. It's a gorgeous, colorful side dish you can even prep the day before.

What's more special for a celebration than truffles?!? Super easy and oh-so addictive, and these can be made several days in advance and still taste wonderful at your dinner party. Note that the recipe card calls for oat milk, but the author says almond milk or traditional dairy milk will work just fine, too.

This is an updated riff on a beloved recipe that was served alongside steaks and chops at the iconic Nick Anthe’s restaurant for more than 30 years.

A stunningly simple olive oil and vinegar dressing perfectly highlights the colorful vegetables in this salad for clean, fresh, vibrant flavors. It's a great break for your palate from heavier side dishes and the rich flavor of juicy prime rib. It keeps well for several days in an airtight container in the fridge, so it's a perfect side dish for getting ahead on your cooking!

A pretty medley of great textures and bold flavors! Kale, apple, pecans, shallots, and pomegranate seeds are drizzled in a simple yet flavorful red wine vinegar dressing for a stunning side dish salad that's especially perfect for Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas dinner and other winter-y celebrations.

You can serve these as an appetizer to kick off your prime rib menu, or as a side. Baby bellas are stuffed with a creamy tomato-cheese filling and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, a drizzle of balsamic and a little fresh basil. This high-end dinner party dish can be prepped up to 2 days in advance and baked off at the last minute.

A touch of salty parmesan perfectly complements the sweet corn in this satisfying, homestyle side dish. Although the recipe card specifies whole milk, the author explains you can use any milk you like, since the "cream" in creamed corn comes from the natural starch released from the corn during cooking.

Such a simple technique, with impressive results when you carry this side dish to the table! If you're serving this with a Christmas prime rib dinner, tuck in a few fresh rosemary sprigs to make it look extra holiday-festive.

No question, if you're planning prime rib for Christmas or even Thanksgiving, a refreshing cranberry side dish is a must. This one's so quick and easy, and bursting with wonderful sweet-tart flavors and great texture. Plus, it takes just a few moments in your food processor and can even be made in advance! 

Inspired by a favorite recipe from a now-shuttered, beloved local restaurant, this pretty soup has become a mainstay on my family's holiday dinner menus. As a bonus, it can be made ahead and even frozen, so it's a great choice if you're trying to juggle the menu for a multi-course prime rib dinner extravaganza.

If you love ordering prime rib at casual steakhouses like Outback, then you've probably indulged in a Bloomin' Onion to go with it. This fun homemade version looks and tastes so much like the original, but it's far less messy ... with way less fat and fewer calories (thanks, air fryer)!

This super-quick recipe has a sweet-and-spicy Asian twist, which is a fun way to introduce a non-traditional flavor profile to an otherwise very traditional menu. These sugar snap peas are also delicious chilled and only get better as they sit, so they're a stress-free make-ahead option!

This cauli-rice is studded with golden brown, seasoned cremini mushrooms and finished with a sprinkling of vibrant, fresh parsley. No wonder it has lots of good reviews! Tip: to save time, buy pre-riced cauliflower.

If you're looking specifically for Christmas side dishes, I highly recommend this gorgeous fruit salad. It's a refreshing change from the vegetable sides, and its layers of red and green are so festive for the holiday season!

By using the low and slow crockpot cooking method, you'll get moist, delicious turkey that melts in your mouth! As an extra plus, the juices make an easy, flavor-packed gravy. Cranberries and seasonal herbs are a beautiful yet ultra-simple garnish.

This rotisserie-style seasoned chicken is cooked with carrots, onions and Yukon gold potatoes for fantastic flavors and a gorgeous, holiday-worthy presentation! You can optionally make an easy gravy to accompany the meal for an extra-special touch.

Incredibly rich and tender slow cooker short ribs are a celebration-worthy dinner with so little effort. The beef is prepared with a trio of mushrooms, carrots and onions that adds a nice, fresh counterbalance to the otherwise rich meal. Fabulous served over potatoes!

This tender and juicy turkey slow-cooks right along with onions and carrots – it's a main course with a built-in vegetable side dish, all in one pot! If you want, you can use the delicious cooking juices to make a gravy, too.

Besides freeing up space in your oven, this slow cooker method retains moisture to keep your ham from drying out, so you end up with a juicy, delicious Christmas ham. And, the bonus secret here is a rich, thick homemade glaze that's easy to whip up using ingredients you have on hand, yet adds tons of flavor and additional moisture!

Duck Confit may sound like a complicated dish, but it's all about time and patience, rather than complex methods – and time and patience is what crockpots do best. A unique and impressive Christmas dinner that's still low-stress and surprisingly simple to pull off!

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts and just a few kitchen staples come together for an effortless main course. A great option if you don't want to cook a whole chicken, but note that you can sub thighs if you like them better than (leaner) white-meat breasts.

With just 5 minutes of prep time (no browning required!), roast is a go-to dish for easy, stress-free holiday entertaining. You can even make it ahead of time, to be re-warmed later! Serve it with plenty of veggie sides for a healthy yet special-feeling Christmas meal.

Elegant but simple, featuring a delicious combination of orange juice, garlic, honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar ... plus a finishing touch of festive Grand Marnier sauce!

This easy slow cooker recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, and the result is a tender roast with a lovely rosemary and thyme aroma. Rutabagas are a lower-carb stand-in for the traditional potatoes, along with green beans, red pepper, and red onion, but the author gives great suggestions for other vegetable options to cook with your pork and round out your meal.

A holiday staple in many homes, these Ukrainian-style cabbage rolls take a beloved comfort dish and make it even better, even easier! Note that, because you won't be able to drain the fat from this recipe, lean ground beef is the ideal choice.

Lots of people like to serve seafood for Christmas, but you might be surprised that you can cook it in your crockpot! In fact, the low, slow cooking method is ideally suited to your crockpot, producing that "poached" texture that's still flaky but also more moist, soft and tender than oven-baked. And the long cooking time offers plenty of opportunity for the salmon to be infused with flavorful seasonings.

For those of you who like serving an Italian Christmas feast, this is a wonderfully easy addition to the menu, with just 7 simple ingredients! To keep it light and lean, make sure to note that you can use chicken or turkey sausages instead of the typical pork.

This super-easy side dish calls for a flavorful combination of paprika, garlic and oregano. But, there are lots of ideas for switching up the flavors and customizing your slow cooker potatoes to pair perfectly with the rest of your Christmas menu!

You only need 10 minutes of prep time and a few pantry staples for this must-have holiday side dish. Includes lots of great ideas for flavor variations, but start by trying it with the highly recommended combo of toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and a homemade balsamic reduction made from light brown sugar and balsamic vinegar.

Only 4 ingredients, but these carrots are a definite crowd-pleaser with their buttery, brown sugar glaze. For added convenience, use baby carrots so there’s no chopping involved. Or for a pop of color, go with rainbow carrots.

When it comes to Christmas side dishes, Green Bean Casserole just might be the iconic king. This updated, slow cooker version of the holiday classic is made with fresh beans and doesn’t use canned soup. It’s a yummy, easy upgrade, and making it in your slow cooker frees up precious oven space!

This lovely side dish combines sweet butternut squash with warm apples, holiday cranberries, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which all make this recipe so fragrant as it cooks ... your whole house will smell amazing!

Crockpots cook stuffing really well, since the bread pieces on the bottom get nice and crispy, just like they would in the oven. This version is made with mushrooms for that meaty, savory umami bomb that you want out of a stuffing. And it’s got walnuts to add nutty flavor and a little crunch to break up the "bread-y" stuffing texture. Yum!

Lusciously creamy and oh-so satisfying! The author suggests lots of variations and add-ins, but most of all, I love her tips for lightening up a dish that is sometimes a bit too heavy. As an added bonus, this great side dish recipe can be made 2-3 days in advance, or even frozen!

Thanks to this foolproof crockpot method, you get ultra creamy, super tender, extra fluffy sweet potatoes every time!

“Roasting” beets in the crockpot is one of the absolute best ways to prepare them! These are perfectly tender and incredibly flavorful, with just a few simple ingredients. Try serving them with crumbled goat cheese and pumpkin seeds for extra flavors and great texture.

This winter-y rice pilaf is packed with veggies like Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, onions, and celery. A last-minute sprinkling of sliced almonds adds a pop of crunchy texture.

Made almost entirely from vegetables, this easy soup recipe is filled with carrots, onion, apples, sweet potato, and butternut squash (of course!), and is flavored with fresh garlic cloves and ginger. Cozy and delicious, creamy and nourishing ... and so good alongside practically any type of main course. You can even leave out the splash of half-and-half to keep it healthier.

Flavored with apples, onions, caraway, and honey, this is a delicious, comforting sweet-and-sour dish that pairs beautifully with the holiday's roasted meats.

A Christmastime favorite that's a snap to make in your crockpot! With the addition of orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, and a crunchy pecan topping, this lightened-up spin on a beloved side dish is sure to make your family and guests happy!

We're talkin' easy homemade applesauce with none of the work or hassles (no peeling!) and no added sugar. Mix in some cinnamon and holiday spices, or keep it plain as an accompaniment to roasted meats. The final product is up to you, but will always be delicious!

These are even easier to make than oven-baked potatoes, and they're already seasoned with olive oil, salt and pepper, for a baked potato with the perfect amount of flavor and tenderness. Top 'em any way you like!

Winter squash bumps up the cozy and festive flavors of traditional mac and cheese, and even helps make it lighter and more flavorful, too. Lots of great tips, variations and ideas for tasty add-ins!

Remember those old-school meatballs with grape jelly sauce? This is a similar concept, expect the cranberry sauce is so much more holiday-ish! The author notes she prefers to use turkey meatballs since turkey and cranberry are a classic combo, and since turkey meatballs are a little lighter and healthier.

This pretty winter sipper starts with apple cider and cranberry juice, then kicks up the flavor with sliced oranges, apples, fresh cranberries, and aromatic spices. It takes just 10 minutes to prep and will stay warm in your slow cooker as long as you like!

Perhaps the #1 most quintessential party dip, this appetizer just never gets old! Ideal for Christmas potlucks, holiday football parties, or even to kick off a casual family dinner party. (Psssst ... for more appetizer ideas along this line, check out our collection of Appetizers for a Christmas Potluck.)

This ultra rich and creamy recipe is a terrific alternative to "typical" hot chocolates since it can be enjoyed even by guests with certain dietary restrictions. It's actually dairy free, gluten free, paleo, and can be made keto ... but nobody would ever guess! Plus, it's so easy – simply dump everything in your slow cooker, whisk it up, then set it on high and you're good to go!

Made with lean ground turkey, parmesan cheese, herbs and spices, these party meatballs are slow simmered to tender perfection in an easy tomato sauce, right in your crockpot. Set out festive toothpicks for a simple but hearty appetizer everyone will love!

This easy cider recipe is bursting with orchard-fresh apple flavor, mulled with cinnamon and warm spices. It makes your house smell absolutely amazing, welcoming all your Christmas guests with cozy aromas!

Although this popular party dip can also be prepared in the microwave or oven, the crockpot is a great way to keep it warm and perfectly dip-able all throughout the party. With all the classic flavors you want, plus sneaky tweaks to keep it lighter and more waistline-friendly, too!

A beautiful blend of winter spices with red wine and brandy. And, besides being ridiculously easy to make in your crockpot to begin with, it can also be made ahead and reheated at party time ... or even frozen!

A delicious, rustic dessert that'll feed a crowd and is such a snap to make – with no need to even turn on the oven!  Sweet apples are cooked until tender with cinnamon and sugar, and finished with a crumbly oat topping. It’s a perfect dessert for entertaining and makes a wonderful addition to your holiday menu!

This bread pudding makes the typical holiday pumpkin pie look BOR-ING. Plus, this clever recipe substitutes half of the usual heavy cream with Greek yogurt, and also cuts back on the sugar a bit, for a nice, lightened-up treat at the end of a heavy Christmas meal!

This decadent, warm chocolate cake is kind of like a crockpot "dump cake" ... with a delightful combination of cake-y and fudgy. Scoop it straight from your slow cooker for an easy way to get your holiday chocolate fix!

These could honestly be a breakfast, too ... if you can resist topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Delicious, no matter when you serve them!

Why wait until dessert time to enjoy your Christmas pie?!? This recipe takes the flavors of maple and brown sugar and pairs them with creamy steel cut oats. Add in crunchy pecans on top for some texture and crunch, and you've got a yummy breakfast you can prep the night before, for a low-stress Christmas morning!

Ham, red bell pepper, onion, and mozzarella cheese are a yummy filling, and a garnish of fresh green parsley and pretty red tomatoes adds a final touch of Christmas colors!

Did you know you could bake bread in your crockpot? How fun is this?!? Vanilla, cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup make it extra cozy for the holidays.

With a long, slow cook time, this overnight crockpot recipe will awaken your family with enticing breakfast smells. It cooks to creamy perfection while you're sound asleep, with visions of sugarplums dancing in your head!

A scrumptious, warm and comforting breakfast recipe that’s ideal for a snuggly Christmas morning. With a prep time of only 5 minutes, it'll get you out of the kitchen and back to the fun FAST!

This egg casserole frees you up to do something else while it's cooking, which is fantastic when you're busy entertaining holiday houseguests. And this type of crockpot “baking” infuses the egg with the flavors of the other ingredients a bit more than simply cooking it in the oven.

Filled with the beloved flavors of banana bread, this oatmeal takes just a few minutes to prep ... and then you wake up to a hot, healthy, yummy breakfast just in time to see if Santa Claus visited!

Just toss everything in the slow cooker ... so ridiculously easy! This creamy, satisfying soup has the sweetness of corn and just a hint of smoky bacon. It's warm and hearty for blustery winter evenings. A perfect way to welcome your family to the dinner table this Christmas season!

This dump-and-go recipe totally doesn’t taste like it only took 10 minutes of effort! Offer rice and lots of different toppings, and your whole family will be happy customizing their own Mexican dinner masterpieces (and you'll be stress-free and enjoying every moment of the holidays)!

This contest-winning chili recipe has an amazing flavor twist that people go crazy over!

Lean into pantry staples you can easily keep on hand, and you can throw this dinner together any time. Tender chicken, potatoes, and carrots and a rich, creamy, tomato-based sauce add up to a comforting dinner with virtually no effort at all!

Featuring a quick homemade Caesar dressing, these popular sandwiches are both delicious and healthy. Great for weeknight dinners!

This is my family’s go-to, classic chili recipe! It's boldly flavored without being too spicy (but don’t worry – we’ve got tips for you if you like it hot).

One of the most popular dinner recipes I've ever shared here on my site, these super-easy, super-yummy tacos are a true family favorite and absolutely perfect for busy nights. Let everyone top 'em any way they like ... even set out a taco bar for a casual, Christmas season get-together!

This stunner only takes 10 minutes to create and can even be made completely ahead of time! Creamy hummus is studded with salty feta plus a little zing from green onions, and then topped with a tabouli-like layer of fresh-tasting parsley salad. It's a simple yet gorgeous focal point for any appetizer potluck or Christmas buffet ... and will definitely steal the show every time you make it!

Surprise! Although this looks like you fussed for hours, it seriously takes just 10 minutes to make. The cream cheese dip base is slathered in herby, Christmas-green pesto, and decorated with a flourish of roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, Kalamatas, and a sprinkling of feta cheese "snow." Who knew trimming a tree could be so easy … or so YUMMY?!?

Succulent pineapple adds an ingenious, sweet counterpoint and a tropical, salsa-y flair to highlight the Christmas cranberries. It's easy to scale up for bigger potluck parties, and can be made up to 3 days ahead!

Every good appetizer buffet needs a dish or two of gourmet nuts for nibbling. These hugely popular pecans are a snap to make ... and they'll disappear even faster!

Keep a variety of ingredients on hand throughout the Christmas season, and you can easily whip up this pretty appetizer in just a few minutes. Terrific for last-minute guests and impromptu parties! (Psssst ... and if you're looking for ways to keep things lighter, check out this handy guide to Making a "Skinny" Charcuterie Board!)

Pizza is always a hit ... and this adorable presentation will be the smash hit of any Christmas party! Make it healthier by using whole wheat dough, and vary the filling and toppings in a variety of tasty ways.

Can't decide between making guacamole ... or making a typical, ranch-style veggie dip? You don't have to! This simple recipe is the best of both worlds. And its festive green color is über-Christmas-y surrounded by enticing red and green veggies!

Full of smoky gouda flavor and dressed up as a dashing little snowman, this cutie is sure to impress at any potluck party! To keep things on the healthy side, be sure to serve him with plenty of veggies and whole grain crackers.

With 5 different festively-colored layers, this party appetizer is a pretty finger food that relies heavily on store-bought, pantry staple items. It comes together quickly, and can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings!

This amazing pull-apart appetizer features pizza dough filled with an easy homemade spinach dip ... then cleverly shaped like a gorgeous Christmas tree! Simple but impressive, and you can even make it a little waistline-friendly by subbing in reduced-fat cream cheese.

Just a little bit spicy, a little bit sweet ... but a whole lot of delicious! Bright and colorful, this potluck dip can be made ahead of time, takes less than 10 minutes, and requires no cooking! To keep it lighter, be sure to note the suggestion to swap in Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese.

Green tortillas, red peppers, green olives, bright red cherry tomatoes and vibrant green herbs definitely highlight the festive colors of Christmas! Roll up the filled tortillas ahead of time for an easy last-minute appetizer. Includes ideas for pretty garnishes and ways to add extra pops of red and green, plus tips to make it healthier with light cream cheese or make it gluten free.

This delicious salsa looks like Christmas in a bowl, with glistening holiday colors! It’s a unique but super-simple party appetizer that wins raves every single time – everybody asks for this recipe! Bonus for last-minute potlucks: you can make this crowd-pleasing appetizer ahead of time, too! 

With ingredients like Everything Seasoning, crunchy pecans, creamy brie cheese, honey, hot sauce, and paprika, these little Brussels sprouts appetizer bites are perfectly flavored with texture galore! Easy to double or even triple for larger potlucks and appetizer parties.

Darling and fun to assemble! Plus, there are great ideas to make these light and healthy by using wheat bread and swapping in ingredients like cucumbers and bell peppers.

These stuffed dates are topped with pistachios, walnuts, thyme, and honey. They’re such a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer recipe, and just happen to be both vegetarian and gluten free. Need a vegan option? Try this one!

These simple appetizer cups are so easy to prep, but look like you spent hours in the kitchen. Includes handy tips and shortcut ideas, and you can even make these up and freeze them for the ultimate prep-ahead party munchie you can whip out at a moment's notice!

The perfect Christmas party color scheme! This recipe elevates typical caprese skewers by marinating the mozzarella in flavorful seasonings. But no worries if you're short on time – just leverage the tip to buy already-marinated cheese at the store! For more holiday fun with the caprese idea, try this easy wreath, these caprese bites nestled in phyllo cups, or even this elegantly deconstructed version served in stem glasses.

No need for a fruit platter with fruit dip ... this beautiful recipe has it all! Holiday favorites like pomegranates, dried cranberries and pistachios, along with apples and grapes, plus a luscious dressing and crunchy topping. It's so much more special than typical fruit recipes … yet it takes hardly any extra time at all (and can be prepped ahead)!

Super juicy ground turkey meatballs are accented by a holiday cranberry sauce that's wonderfully tangy and sweet, and complements these meatballs to perfection! A great make-ahead recipe, these can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Cream cheese dips like this are potluck classics because they're so crazy quick and easy, and always really popular. This one is ideal for Christmas gatherings because of its seasonal red, gold and flecks of green. If you wanna take it upscale, note the tips for pivoting this to individual, finger food appetizers instead. Fantastic either way!

These are healthy, easy, light and delicious! You can prepare them up to a day in advance for an easy potluck win during the busy Christmas season. And these festive green and red nibbles just happen to be vegetarian, low carb, keto and gluten free, so they're ideal for a big party where guests may have differing dietary needs.

This helpful guide has specific instructions for making a salami rose, carving a lovely brie Christmas tree focal point, and swapping and subbing ingredients. It even features handy infographics to guide your layout!

Give that tired-out shrimp cocktail routine a rest! Plump, roasted shrimp are tossed with a zesty gremolata dressing of fresh parsley, lemon, garlic, and olive oil. It's great for potlucks since it's delicious both hot from the oven or at room temperature. Offer toothpicks or little appetizer forks, and watch this disappear!

Dress up traditional antipasto into a festive wreath for Christmas! Mix and match ingredients so your guests have plenty of yummy options, and add some fresh herbs to make it extra-pretty. You can make the skewers and assemble the wreath a day ahead of your potluck party – great for stress-free entertaining!

This is a delightfully healthy appetizer that takes virtually no time to make (and you can even prep it mostly ahead). Serve it sprinkled with goat cheese and piled beautifully on crostini, or offer it as a casual dip with crackers alongside. Either way, it's irresistibly sweet-tart and creamy!

These are a great, heartier potluck option and a fun riff on the always-popular baked party sandwiches. They're ideal to make ahead, super adaptable, and {surprise!} so much healthier, too! With three different variations for you to try, you can mix and match and let party guests choose their fave.

For these simple, scrumptious little appetizers, each cheese ball is rolled in a mixture of honey, apricot preserves, and crunchy pecans. Push in a pretzel stick or decorative toothpick so they're easy to grab. You can switch up the nuts and preserves to create different flavor combinations and make these again and again throughout the Christmas season!

These Mediterranean-inspired deviled eggs sport pops of holiday red and green ... and an unexpected flavor twist. The egg yolk filling is blended with creamy roasted red pepper hummus before they're topped with a pretty, flavor-elevating combination of pepper strips, basil, green onions, and paprika. Fast enough to serve at last-minute potlucks, yet stunning enough to headline at swankier events, too. Maybe best of all: you can make them ahead!

Guacamole is always a crowd pleaser, and it's Christmas-perfect when you shape it into an enticing holiday wreath. Super easy, but with big WOW factor!

Ah, yes! Couldn't leave out the quintessential holiday bread bowl party dip! This version is an inspired vegan take: it’s creamy, cheesy, and just as indulgent as the classic without the heaviness of dairy. But, if you'd prefer a "traditional" {aka NON-vegan} option, try this version (and notice that you can lighten it by subbing Greek yogurt for the sour cream).

These festive little bites feel fancy but only take a few minutes to make. Crisp cucumber and flavorful roasted red peppers add Christmas-colored flair to the creamy hummus base, and will have everyone reaching for seconds!

A pretty potluck appetizer in 5 minutes flat ... no cooking required! Serve this great idea for fresh vegetables along with your favorite dips for a fun and healthy appetizer option everyone will enjoy!

Warm polenta rounds are topped with melty, creamy mozzarella, then sprinkled with sweet tomatoes in a delightful balsamic dressing with fresh basil. It’s totally amazing. A holiday-colored finger food that's both cozy and fresh ... light yet satisfying!

Pears and brie are a classic holiday flavor combination, made party-perfect with arugula, walnuts, and balsamic vinegar glaze. And all you need are 5 ingredients and about 20 minutes of time!

These adorable fruit Santas and strawberry-grape Santa hats will turn that same-old-same-old fruit tray into a blockbuster holiday showstopper! Make an entire platter full of these, or simply create a few as decorative accents to a fresh fruit dish.

Inspired by the edamame hummus at Trader Joe’s, this delicious and healthy recipe is so easy and so yummy! It takes only a few minutes to make, and its Christmas-y green hue is wonderful for holiday entertaining situations (especially if you surround it with red and green veggies along with the standard pita chips).

Crazy-impressive! This luxurious, upscale appetizer platter is a jaw-dropping showstopper! With loads of tips for what seafood to include, plus substitutions, variations, and suggested accompaniments like sauces and even wines.

While the colors absolutely scream "CHRISTMAS!" the fresh, crisp flavors and textures will be a welcome change from the heavier, wintery options at the party. Bonus for the busy holiday season: with just a few, simple ingredients, this quick appetizer can be ready in 15 minutes, and made up to 3 days ahead of time!

Everybody loves a great Reuben dip, but what makes this one so terrific for potlucks is that you can choose to serve it in a little slow cooker so it stays hot throughout the party. An absolute classic that's a crowd favorite every time!

A unique twist on mini sandwiches, the tiny buns are hollowed out and stuffed with brie, pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes before being baked to warm, melty joy. A sprinkling of green parsley and snowy parmesan cheese makes for a festive final flourish on top of the red and green filling!

This dip is Christmas-ready with surprising layers of flavor from rosemary and garlic-infused olive oil, seasonal pecans and dried cranberries, and a little zing of citrus-y orange juice. A celebration in every bite!

Cowboy caviar is a must-have party dip, but it can get a bit boring when you've had it so many times. Try this fresh spin that combines traditional black beans, crunchy red peppers, juicy sweet corn, and trendy edamame and quinoa with a fabulous lemon-dijon vinaigrette. Its holiday colors will earn it a place at the potluck buffet ... but the flavors will steal the show!

A lovely balance of sweet and savory, soft and crunchy! This medley of seasonal flavors showcases roasted squash and pops of juicy pomegranate, perched atop a cream cheese and feta schmear and crowned with honey and fresh mint. Festive Christmas colors that deliver big on both taste and presentation!

Georgian cuisine has absorbed the best culinary traditions of the Caucasus, Middle East and the Black Sea region, and the result is rich, savory, decadent flavors in luxurious, yet simple dishes. You can make these enticing eggplant rolls in your own home and share those same flavors with friends and family in this pretty, tasty appetizer!

The perfect combination of two favorites – a warm, creamy hummus layer meets a cool, fresh (gluten-free) tabouli-like topping that's bursting with flavor and Christmas-y colors. Luckily, this dip is also wonderful served chilled, or once the hummus has cooled back down after baking – so don't worry if you don't have access to an oven to warm (or rewarm) this dip during the party.

A refreshing fruit tray is always a welcome addition to the potluck buffet table! Serve this simple but darling wreath alongside your favorite dip (HINT: we love this Healthy Sugared-Vanilla Yogurt Fruit Dip).

This easy, two-bite finger food is so pretty, and so easy to customize. Use part-skim ricotta to keep them lighter, swap maple syrup for honey to suit your mood, change up the nuts and herbs based on what you've got on hand ... even make them vegan if you'd like. Lots of options for these inventive sweet potatoes ... with no wrong answers here!

"Chestnuts roasting on an open fire ..." That quintessential Christmas ingredient makes an unexpected appearance in this gorgeous hummus recipe. While the post shows how to cook chestnuts yourself, it also mentions that you can simply purchase cooked chestnuts for a handy shortcut. This holiday appetizer can be made 2-3 days in advance of your party.

The iconic potluck appetizer! It's especially terrific since you can use a small slow cooker to keep it warm and dip-able all throughout the party. To make it more Christmas-y, surround it with some green and red bell pepper strips for dipping, as well as the standard green celery or tortilla chips and crackers! (Hint for those of you who love using your slow cooker for EASY cooking: be sure to check out our full collection of Christmas Crockpot Recipes, too!)

Got a bag of beans in your freezer? Then you can make this easy side dish with only 5 basic pantry ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time. Terrific when you're in a hurry! Includes lots of ideas for delicious flavor variations to keep things interesting, every time you make this. (Mmmmmm ... parmesan cheese, or nuts and fresh herbs, or cranberries, or ......)

Ah ... the Thanksgiving classic! But this one's made without any gloppy canned soup for a lighter, more wholesome take on the iconic American holiday dish! (Need a vegan version? Try this clever Vegan Green Bean Casserole with Panko Topping.)

No need to defrost the frozen green beans first! Simply toss your whole green beans and dried seasonings in a skillet, and in just 10 minutes, your tasty and healthy side dish will be ready. With lots of ideas for flavor variations and add-ins, this super-flexible recipe is a blank canvas that goes with pretty much any main dish!

Just for all you fans of air fryer recipes! These frozen beans are delightfully seasoned with black pepper, garlic powder, and dried onions, plus chili flakes for a little heat (although you can change up the spice mixture to suit your taste). Super fast with your air fryer ... ready in 13 minutes flat. (Or, for an entirely different flavor profile, try this recipe for Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans with Everything Bagel Seasoning.)

Next time you're craving fried rice, try this green bean recipe, which cooks in just 15 minutes – faster than ordering takeout! It’s flavor-filled with a unique almond teriyaki sauce, packed with veggies, and gets boosted texture from crunchy almond slivers. Feel free to add in extra vegetables, too, like pretty bits of red bell peppers. A healthier fried rice recipe that's so simple to whip up!

This tasty side dish comes together with balsamic-caramelized frozen green beans, roasted mushrooms, toasted almonds, and a finishing sprinkle of feta cheese. If you worry that cooked frozen green beans will end up sad and soggy – never fear! These roasted frozen green beans are a crispy, tender, and flavorful veggie recipe that even a picky eater will gobble up!

An heirloom family recipe, this dish features frozen green beans that are slowly simmered with diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, cinnamon, and cumin, allowing the flavors to really develop and become rich and warm. Make a batch to have leftovers for quick side dishes throughout the week, or add meat to easily turn it into a satisfying main.

A hearty beef and vegetable soup that'll warm your soul on a chilly day! It's also a great recipe for when you have a partially used bag of frozen green beans you need to use up.

A classic dish of tender green beans coated in a rich, buttery, lemon juice sauce and topped with crunchy toasted almonds. It's both flavorful and healthy ... a win-win that's done all in one large skillet, in under 15 minutes!

Your frozen green beans cook quickly in the air fryer (no need to thaw!), bathed in a mixture of garlic, toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. A little sweet, a little salty ... and a whole lotta yummy! (Psssst ... these would be a perfect side dish for our beloved Flank Steak!)

This homemade version of the Olive Garden fave is so wonderfully cozy and delicious, bursting with healthy, fresh flavors! The recipe includes both Instant Pot and stovetop directions, plus options like adding chicken.

Let your oven do the heavy lifting tonight with this simple, low-prep dinner that only requires 10 or 15 minutes to prep! Green beans meet up with baby red potatoes, green olives, and herby, marinated chicken for a baking sheet meal the whole family will love! (Note that the author uses bone-in, skin-on thighs, but says any cut will work well, so try it with leaner skinless chicken breasts for a more waistline-friendly option.)

A simple, rustic Italian dish (cucina povera style) with green beans and tomatoes – from an author who specializes in authentic Italian recipes. It's fabulous as a side dish, or as a vegan/vegetarian main dish with crusty bread.

A quick stovetop green beans recipe that simmers your unthawed green beans with pretty purple onions and a tiny but flavorful dab of butter. It all cooks together quickly and easily for a speedy side dish that's ready in 15 minutes, and lovely with nearly any main course you're making!

This nourishing soup is loaded with simple ingredients – nutritious vegetables in a flavorful, tomato-based broth laced with Italian seasoning. Lots of great tips help you add meat or plant-based proteins, kick up the heat, or even make it in your slow cooker instead of your pressure cooker. Whatever you choose, it’s perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly.

Thawed and well-drained frozen green beans easily stand in for fresh in this fast, Asian-inspired recipe. A thickened, gingery soy sauce deliciously blankets the medley of veggies. Try it served next to fried eggs for a unique yet nourishing weeknight meal!

Calling all garlic lovers! You can adjust this recipe to use more or less green beans, depending on how garlicky you want them and how many people you're serving. For an even bigger flavor punch, you can optionally add in chopped onions, along with the fresh garlic. Quick and easy!

With a few minutes of chopping, this easy soup cooks up in only 20 minutes, so you can sit down to a healthy, hearty meal no matter how hectic your week gets! Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to make it milder or kickier, exactly how you like it. And don't worry ... although the pretty pictures of this recipe showcase fresh green beans, it also clearly explains that you can opt for frozen green beans instead (but be sure to thaw them first).

Got just a few frozen green beans you wanna use up? This unique, extra-healthy meal is a great way to do it! As the authors explain, frozen green beans are super convenient since you simply defrost them in warm water before preparing.

This classic Italian recipe is terrific served warm, cold, or room temperature, so it's ideal for summer cookouts and picnics, or for Thanksgiving dinner and holiday buffets! Make sure to note the author's recommendation to use very good-quality olive oil and a strong wine vinegar to really make this dish shine.

Ready to enjoy in only 10 minutes! Tender green beans are tossed with crispy, spicy Spanish chorizo sausage for a side dish that packs a punch. Delightfully smokey with a hint of heat, the author says they're a particularly great accompaniment to fish and chicken dishes.

A great side dish or vegetarian meal ... or do as the author's mother-in-law does, and add tender Greek meatballs. Yum! Bonus: another beauty of this recipe is that it tastes even better the next day. And it's extra-easy to make with frozen green beans, since there's no need to thaw them – just toss them in, and they'll have plenty of time to cook in the oven.

Feeling extra fancy tonight? This recipe uses those "French" thin green beans (aka haricots verts) you see in the frozen veggie aisle, that are split lengthwise into graceful, slender bean ribbons. (Although it works just fine with regular green beans, too.) Buttery, garlicky mushrooms make them extra-special!

This gorgeous, colorful mixture is one of the most versatile side dishes I know. It showcases a deliciously wide range of flavors and textures. And, pickier eaters can scoop up just the veggies they like best, so everybody at the table is happy (and you’re happy knowing you got some veggies in ’em)! It uses a lower-heat method than most of my roasted vegetable recipes, so everything finishes at the same time, without you having to babysit the process too much. Really easy ... with fantastic results!

These are an ideal side for everything from grilled burgers to dinner-party salmon. With just a few ingredients you can keep on hand in the pantry, these simple roasted potatoes are a snap to throw together anytime!

You basically need 1 ingredient for this recipe: green beans! But, although these beans are the ultimate in simplicity, they definitely don’t taste simple at all. You’ll be surprised how complex (and addictive) they are!

Another ultra-easy recipe, with just 1 main ingredient and 2 minutes of hands-on time! These carrots pair beautifully with practically any dinner. Try our creative suggestions to quickly adapt them to fit whatever main dish you're making!

You'll never be able to get very excited about plain-old steamed asparagus again. Roasting produces so much more deep, delicious flavor. In fact, I almost always make a double batch of this asparagus, because one just isn't enough. My whole family absolutely LOVES it!

Do you look forward to ordering Roasted Brussels Sprouts in restaurants? Good news: they’re super easy to make at home, too! I’ve got simple tips to make sure your sprouts roast up beautifully, every time. Toss in some cranberries, pecans, and a drizzle of sweet-and-spicy honey to make them completely irresistible! This recipe is a must-have at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but we adore it so much that I make it all year 'round, too.

Sweet carrots, nutty parsnips and fluffy red potatoes … all delectably elevated with quick, high-heat roasting. Ohhhhhh ... those yummy, toasty brown edges! The veggies are fantastic on their own – and even more wonderful with a little Honey-Dijon Drizzle to bring all the flavors together!

These are so clever, and so surprisingly yummy! You'll never want to toss out your broccoli stalks anymore! They're full of nutrition and make a perfect little snack or side dish. Just roast them with a tiny bit of oil and seasonings, plus an alluring sprinkle of parmesan. Added Bonus: You get some really fun, random shapes for a lot of kid-appeal, to get your kiddos eating some more veggies!

Absolutely the very BEST Buffalo Cauliflower, piled sky-high with extra flavors. Even better? It’s so much healthier and takes just 5 minutes of prep work (with no messy batter). Try this recipe for a fun party snack or game day appetizer – or even as a side dish to pep up burgers and basic grilled meats.

Your family will be licking the plate! Yes – it’s that good! This recipe maximizes big flavors from roasting the beans, and from just a little bit of indulgent browned butter. It's perfect when you’ve got a bumper crop of summer beans. And, you'll being saying good-bye to that gluggy, "traditional" green bean casserole ... these beans are a total Thanksgiving game-changer!

Mmmmmmm … Pizza Fries … without the guilt! Crispy, oven-roasted french fries are so easy to make, and always a total hit. In this recipe, we take those fries to whole new, glorious heights by loading them up with awesome, cheesy pizza flavors! Customize the toppings to suit your tastes and create your own masterpiece. (And be prepared to make a second batch, because these disappear FAST!)

Swap out the tortilla chips in typical nachos ... and replace them with crisp-tender slices of perfectly roasted potatoes. Then, dress 'em up with all the beloved fillings of a classic Reuben sandwich. Absolutely terrific for Super Bowl parties, game day noshing ... and (of course) for St. Patrick's Day, too!

This one-pan dinner is easy to make and easy to clean up, since the potatoes roast right along with the main dish, all on the same pan!

The caramelized notes of oven-roasted cauliflower and broccoli make this easy pasta recipe deeply flavorful. Parmesan cheese, garlic and bright lemon juice are all you really need to round out the salty-umami-tangy symphony of tastes. It’s deceptively simple … just a few ingredients that add up to surprisingly big, big flavors! Plus, with all those roasted vegetables, it’s a meal-in-one with no veggie side dish needed – perfect for busy nights!

This restaurant-quality dinner will be on the table in just over 20 minutes! Mexican-spiced fajita veggies conveniently roast on the same baking sheet as the succulent shrimp. Really quick and easy, with minimal cleanup. And WOW – these are so, so good!

This lightened-up Cheeseburger Salad recipe is an easy meal-in-one. A hearty main-dish salad with all the flavors of a big, juicy cheeseburger – and a side of crisp-tender, oven-roasted fries. It's healthy, fast, and oh-so-tasty! Plus, it can be mostly made ahead, to save your sanity on busy evenings!

A holiday version of our beloved Layered Pesto Appetizer Dip! This layered Mediterranean dip may look tricky and time consuming, but it's truly not! It only takes about 10 minutes. And, it can be made ahead of time, too. A cream cheese base is highlighted by pretty green pesto and plenty of festive toppings – plus a sprinkling of feta "snow." So festive!

This vibrant, holiday salsa ingeniously slashes refined sugar – succulent pineapple adds sweetness and salsa-y flair. Delicious, quick and easy (and guilt-free, too)! Keeps well for up to 3 days ahead.

Gonna have kids at the Christmas party? This is an adaptable, fun idea for kids (of all ages)! Toss it together in about 15 minutes, and use the list of suggestions to tailor it to what you like or have on hand. Includes handy "Tips for Success" from someone who's made lots of kid-friendly charcuterie boards.

Candied pecans are wonderful little nibbles to offer alongside more hearty appetizers, or at the drinks station. This particular recipe is among the all-time most popular recipes here at Two Healthy Kitchens. It comes together super-fast ... about 5 minutes of hands-on time, plus cooling. It's a must-try, for sure!

Dark cherries, luxurious brie, crunchy phyllo, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Mmmmmm! Just 4 ingredients and a quick bake, but still special enough for the holidays!

So quick to make, but this delicious, easy Christmas appetizer is sure to impress! Bonus: it can even be made completely ahead of time!

This recipe requires a little more time and effort up front, but I've included it here because the meatballs can be stored with the sauce in the fridge for 2-3 days, or the recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. A great make-ahead party recipe! Plus ... you've got that hands-off slow cooker thing happening, too! (Psssst ... love slow cooker recipes? Then don't miss our collection of Easy Christmas Crockpot Recipes!)

Seriously low on time? Grab some fruit and cheese, plus maybe some herb sprigs and pretzels. You can toss this together in no time, but it's totally Christmas party ready, and perfect with wine! Any variety of fruit will work, and you can use celery sticks or more fruit instead of pretzels if you don't have them. Easy-peasy!

Or, if you'd rather shape your cheese board as a festive wreath instead of a Christmas tree, try this idea! Includes great tips, like the suggestion that a wreath-shaped cheese board looks terrific with lots of ball-shaped items such as cherry tomatoes, cocktail onions, olives, and grapes (in addition to things like cheese cubes).

This Pomegranate Salsa looks like Christmas in a bowl! A unique but super-fast holiday appetizer that wins huge raves every single time. You can make it up to 1-2 days ahead, too.

Surround this easy dip with red and green veggies to create a vibrant Christmas appetizer platter in just moments!

All you need here is 5 simple ingredients. Layer them up in a serving dish, and you've got a lovely red and green appetizer dip ... in practically no time at all!

Ok ok ... you do have to fire up the oven for this one. But beyond that, this appetizer really is super easy to make. And I love that the combo of veggies highlights those red and green colors of Christmas!

About the easiest possible way to turn a typical vegetable tray into a celebration-worthy holiday appetizer! Use hummus or whatever dip you prefer, but stick with red and green veggies to keep the Christmas vibe.

Simply spread thinly sliced apples with cheese and sprinkle them with fresh chives, crunchy celery, toasted walnuts, and jewel-toned pomegranate. And VOILA! Your gorgeously festive and delicious appetizer is ready to serve!

Want to take your charcuterie board in a whole new, creative direction? These are easy and super adaptable, with loads of great tips all along the way!

Stuffed mushrooms may seem like a fussy, time consuming appetizer. BUT ... this recipe can be assembled ahead and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake them. Or, it can even be frozen, either before or after baking. Then, when it’s time, just pull it out and bake. You don’t even need to thaw the stuffed mushrooms before you bake them!

Serve this merry dip sprinkled with goat cheese and piled beautifully on crostini, or offer it with crackers alongside – so versatile! It's irresistibly tart and creamy, and can be prepped almost entirely ahead in about 10 minutes flat.

Dollop some store-bought hummus on refreshing cucumber slices, then top with tomato, parsley and feta. Poof! Done! A Christmas-colored finger food that just couldn't be simpler to make!

These take just 5 minutes to prepare, with no cooking and minimal chopping. All you have to do is thread everything onto a skewer! Adapt the recipe to use up what you have in the fridge. These can be made ahead, too, since they store really well in an airtight container.

A clever but ridiculously easy way to make your dip a little extra-special, a little classier!

You can make this classic holiday appetizer ahead and store it in the fridge, but be sure to follow the advice to add the mint at the last minute, so it doesn't wilt.

Ready in only 15 minutes! Just stir cooked chicken together with the Greek yogurt dressing, and then spoon it into wonton cups or purchased phyllo cups. Lots of flavor and texture!

So quick to make, but guaranteed to impress! Even better? It can be made completely ahead – total bonus during the busy holiday season!

I mean ... how unbelievably cute are these little guys?!? Adults and kids alike will be absolutely charmed, and you can never go wrong with caprese flavors!

Simple to make, but an impressive showpiece that's sure to win raves! Make it a day ahead if needed, to keep entertaining stress-free!

These super-cute reindeer are a terrific sweet treat on your appetizer buffet. Bonus: you can prep them ahead and store 'em in the fridge for a week, or in your freezer for up to 3 months!

Follow this template to turn your cheese board into a darling Christmas tree. Really versatile, with great suggestions to help you switch up the ingredients any way you'd like!

These look just like little ornaments! Green chives and crimson cranberries lend lots of festive color, and pecans add irresistible crunch – both inside, and out. They can be made ahead, too (but be sure to note the suggestion to add the pretzels just before serving).

An absolute party headliner! Layers of scrumptious, bold Mediterranean flavors make it addictive … and its cute holiday “tree” shape makes it the centerpiece of any buffet. But, luckily, it’s quick and easy to whip up. (We’re talking 10 minutes here – seriously!) So, you definitely won’t mind when everyone requests that you make it year after year!

To make this showstopper, simply arrange antipasto skewers into a cheer-filled wreath shape and decorate with aromatic rosemary. Includes a long list of possible ingredient options, plus suggestions for keeping the color scheme Christmas-y.

So darling! Offer up this jolly fella with plenty of whole grain crackers and crunchy veggies to keep him on the healthier side. He's sure to be the hit of the Christmas party!

Way more WOW factor than a standard fruit tray! Use the clever edible fruit base to build your own masterpiece. A fun "art project" kiddos will enjoy helping you out with, too!

These minis are adorably petite – an ideal size for guests to pop in their mouthes as they breeze by the food table. These would be great practically any time of year, but the red and green colors make them holiday-perfect!

Veggie trays are a staple on appetizer buffet tables. But that doesn't mean they can't be extra fun, extra cute for Christmas! And just look how easy this idea is!

What's always green ... and always a party favorite? Yup ... delicious homemade guac! What a brilliant idea to serve it as a merry Christmas wreath!

I love her "Lighten Up" tip to swap in nutritious ingredients like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, and maybe even make the top star out of a bell pepper. So many options ... and super cute no matter what you choose!

A whole bunch of uniquely creative ideas here! Make the cute little trees, or try one of the ornament ideas ... or go full-on-holiday by making them all!

This pretty ranch dip gets its natural green color from creamy avocado. Perfect for a Christmas party, especially surrounded by red and green veggies to complete the color theme!

Just 5 ingredients + fun assembly makes these tree-shaped appetizers a joy to make (and definitely joyous to serve)!

This idea is so easy to assemble, and it gives everyone plenty of options to pick and choose just the snackies they like best. My favorite part of all might be her suggestions on how to make those cute rosettes out of the deli meats!

For a heartier Christmas appetizer, cut mini sandwiches into iconic winter shapes, like these little Christmas trees. (With suggestions for the best cutter shapes to use and different fillings to try.)

When you're talkin' easy Christmas appetizers, this is seriously about as easy as it gets ... but still so darn cute! Notice the extra-special touch of cutting the accompanying toasts into ornament shapes – ingenious!

Tasty bruschetta toasts are arranged like a Christmas tree, then made even more jolly with the addition of mozzarella balls and rolled prosciutto "decorations." You can offer extra toasted baguette slices and a bowl of additional topping, so people can make their own bruschetta appetizers as they choose.

Need a 100% vegan appetizer that's pretty as a picture? A wreath-shaped mini silicone bundt cake mold is the ideal way to make Christmas-themed appetizers like this one!

Does your party's guest list include young kids? They'll adore these charming Grinch hats and Banana Santas!

A blockbuster-popular holiday recipe, year after year! The winter-y flavors and Champagne Vinaigrette make it absolutely celebratory, especially when you shape this salad as a gorgeous wreath!

The beloved, classic chicken Cobb salad gets a holiday twist! Hearts of romaine lettuce are perfectly suited to become a “Christmas tree,” complete with tomato-ornaments, a golden pepper-star … even packages under the tree! Surprisingly simple to make, and can even be made ahead! 

A refreshing option for holiday brunches, or to break up a heavy, savory Christmas dinner menu. And don't worry if you can't find star fruit for the adorable toppers – we've got tips for using pineapple instead!

The Christmas-y colors of caprese salads make for a darling candy cane. Serve your favorite vinaigrette on the side, or drizzle some oil and vinegar on top just before serving.