Have Yourself a Healthy Little Christmas Feast with These Appetizers

Ho ho hello my merry friends! Can you believe Christmas is already here? I don’t know about you but I’m overflowing with festive cheer this holiday season and ravenous hunger for all the cozy treats this season brings. But with appetizer spreads often centered around fried, cheesy or salty fare, finding lighter options that won’t completely derail your health can feel impossible. Well, I’ve got great news; you absolutely can indulge in mouthwatering Christmas appetizers without sabotaging the progress you’ve made all year long. I’m talking decadent yet wholesome shareables made from real, nourishing ingredients that both satisfy your tastebuds and nourish your body.

Today we’re exploring three delicious healthy appetizer options for this holiday season that strike the perfect balance of great flavor and clean eating. Think crispy brussel sprouts, vibrant roasted veggie tartlets and protein-packed deviled eggs. These holiday treats will leave all of your guests delighted while still allowing you to feel your best and remorse free. So, let’s get started.

Recipe 1: Sriracha & Honey Brussels Bites

We’re kicking things off with a spicy sweet play on classic loaded crispy brussel sprouts that will have you tossing traditional greasy apps to the curb! A touch of pure maple syrup caramelizes the veggies to perfection before tossing in crunchy pistachios, tart pomegranate arils and sriracha. This fancy veggie starter comes together quickly for a flavor explosion guests won’t stop raving over.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line baking sheet with parchment.
2. In large bowl, toss brussels sprouts with oil, syrup, sriracha until coated evenly.
3. Spread into single layer on pan and roast 25 mins until crisped and browned.
4. Top with pistachios and pomegranate arils before serving.
5. Enjoy this spicy sweet holiday treat!

Recipe 2: Chickpea & Olive Veggie Tartlets

Mini tartlets always impress guests with minimal effort involved! For this, a savory chickpea spread tops baked whole grain crusts before piling vibrant roasted vegetables on top. We’re talking zucchini, red peppers, artichokes and olives baked into festive bite-sized vessels. Top with fresh dill and feta for a pretty pop of green and creamy saltiness in every bite.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place phyllo shells on baking sheet.
2. Pulse chickpeas, garlic, and 1 Tbsp oil in food processor until smooth paste forms.
3. Toss zucchini, pepper and artichokes with remaining 1 Tbsp oil. Roast 10 minutes on separate pan.
4. Spoon chickpea spread evenly into each tart shell.
5. Top with roasted veggies, olives, dill and feta evenly.
6. Return to oven 5 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy!

Recipe 3: Curried Deviled Eggs

Last but not least, we’re putting a flavorful twist on classic deviled eggs by incorporating tangy Greek yogurt, curry and turmeric. Paprika, cayenne and Dijon add extra punch to take these usual finger foods into spicy extraordinary territory! Mix up a batch to add protein packed pizzazz to any holiday table. Even deviled egg newbies will go back for seconds.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Scoop egg yolks into mixing bowl, setting whites aside.
2. Mash yolks with yogurt, mustard and seasonings until smooth.
3. Spoon or pipe mixture into egg white halves.
4. Dust with paprika and additional cayenne if desired.
5. Chill 1 hour before serving and enjoy!