Hamdi Saidani Every Christmas, I’m always on the hunt for appetizers that are both delicious and stress-free. Ina Garten’s recipes never fail me. Dishes like her Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms and Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Louis are always a crowd favorite. They’re simple to make and perfect for elevating your holiday table without any hassle.
1. Crab Cakes
If you’re craving something special this Christmas, these crab cakes are a total win.
Packed with lump crabmeat and seasoned to perfection with Old Bay, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Fry them up and serve with a zesty Remoulade sauce. They’re always a hit—trust me, they disappear fast!
2. Goat Cheese & Zucchini Tart
This goat cheese and zucchini tart is as gorgeous as it is delicious. The buttery crust, creamy goat cheese, and thinly sliced zucchini come together in perfect harmony.
It’s easy to make and looks impressive—perfect for your Christmas appetizer spread. Trust me, everyone will think you spent hours on this one!
3. Stuffed Artichokes
Stuffed artichokes might seem fancy, but they’re surprisingly simple to make. Filled with a flavorful mix of bread crumbs, Parmesan, capers, and olives, they’re tender and bursting with flavor.
Slowly simmered in white wine, these are the perfect make-ahead Christmas appetizers that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
4. Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta
You know that appetizer that makes everyone pause and say, “Wow”? This is it. Creamy whipped feta, tangy and smooth, is spread over crispy baguette slices, and then topped with juicy, marinated tomatoes.
Add a sprinkle of basil and toasted pine nuts, and you’ve got a simple yet show-stopping Christmas bite.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach artichoke dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and this one doesn’t disappoint.
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender spinach and artichokes, it’s the kind of dip you’ll find yourself sneaking back to all night.
Bake until bubbly, and serve it with warm bread or crackers—it’s a Christmas must-have!
6. Tomato Gratin
This tomato gratin is the perfect balance of fresh and comforting. Layers of juicy tomatoes, garlic, and basil, all topped with crispy, golden breadcrumbs and melted cheese.
It’s simple, delicious, and the kind of dish that feels fancy without any fuss. A perfect light start to your Christmas meal!
7. Salmon Cakes
These salmon cakes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Fresh salmon mixed with sautéed veggies and a hint of Old Bay seasoning brings a little luxury to your appetizer spread.
Fry them up golden brown, and serve with a tangy dipping sauce—they’re always a hit!
8. Lamb Sausage in Puff Pastry
Who can resist crispy puff pastry wrapped around savory lamb sausage? This appetizer is a total game-changer.
The Dijon mustard adds just the right kick, and the golden puff pastry seals in all that juicy flavor.
Serve these as bite-sized pieces, and I guarantee they’ll be gone in no time. Perfect for your holiday spread!
9. Risotto Cakes
Ever have leftover risotto and wonder what to do with it? These Ina Garten risotto cakes are the answer.
Crispy on the outside, and creamy on the inside, they’re perfect for turning those leftovers into a Christmas appetizer that feels gourmet.
Fry them up golden brown, and serve with a salad or dipping sauce—so simple, yet so good!
10. Warm Goat Cheese in Phyllo
If you want to impress without much effort, this warm goat cheese wrapped in buttery phyllo is your secret weapon.
The crispy, flaky dough encases creamy goat cheese, and when paired with a fresh salad, it’s a light yet decadent appetizer. Trust me, they’ll disappear as soon as they hit the table!
11. Curry Chicken Salad
This isn’t your typical chicken salad. With the bold flavors of curry, sweet chutney, and crunchy cashews, it’s a festive twist that feels both comforting and exciting.
Perfect for Christmas, it’s best served at room temperature so you can make it ahead of time. Just toss in the cashews right before serving for that perfect crunch!
12. Roasted Shrimp Cocktail Louis
This isn’t your average shrimp cocktail—it’s next-level delicious. Roasting the shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out a sweetness you can’t get from boiling.
Pair it with a tangy, spicy Louis sauce packed with lemon, horseradish, and capers. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas appetizer spread.
13. Green Beans Almondine
A simple side dish with a big flavor. These blanched green beans are tossed with toasted almonds, sautéed shallots, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Finished with a touch of garlic, they’re light, fresh, and perfect for your Christmas table. This dish is a total win for any holiday spread.
14. Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are always a hit, and these sausage-stuffed beauties are no exception.
Filled with savory Italian sausage, mascarpone, and a touch of Marsala wine, they’re baked until golden and crispy on top.
These mushrooms are the ultimate comfort appetizer—perfectly rich and satisfying for Christmas gatherings.
15. Fennel Orange Salad
This bright, crisp fennel and orange salad is a refreshing start to any holiday meal. Thinly sliced fennel and juicy orange segments are tossed with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing.
Topped with peppery arugula, it’s a light, zesty dish that balances out the rich flavors of your Christmas appetizers.
