What Are Some Good Holiday Party Appetizers

There are plenty of easy-to-prepare appetizers you can make for your holiday guests.

When hosting a holiday party, careful planning usually goes into the food to be served. Still, there are a number of appetizers you can serve that are easy to prepare and delicious.

Chips and Dip

Chips and dips are among the easiest things to prepare. You don't have to limit yourself to the classic corn or potato chips. You can make your own from eggplant, apples and even banana. You can include dips such as guacamole, salsa and sour cream. If you're tired of those, try making cheese-based or cream-based dips.

Bread and Herbed Oil Dips

Grocery stores usually have a supply of garlic- or basil-flavored oils. If none are available, you can make your own by mixing some olive oil with herbs such as basil and oregano. Add some Parmesan or feta cheese for a creamier dip. Pair the dip with a selection of crusty bread and baguettes. Bread sticks work well too.

BBQ Skewers

Also known as shish kebabs, skewers are an easy appetizer to prepare. You can skewer lamb, beef, sausages, chicken and any other meat or poultry you prefer. Season the meat with spices or marinate them with BBQ sauce before grilling. You can also pair the meats with fruits and vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, green peppers, onions and pineapples, alternating them along the skewers between the pieces of meat.

Fruit and Vegetable Trays

Another popular appetizer for parties, fruit and vegetable trays offer guests a refreshing, healthy alternative from some of the rich, traditional holiday foods. Arrange cut-up vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, cucumber and celery on a tray and pair them with creamy dips, such as bleu cheese and sour cream. For fruit trays, some good choices include pineapple, apples, grapes and strawberries.

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