The holidays are a time for connection, celebration, and—let’s be honest—a lot of food. Appetizers often take center stage. Whether you're hosting, attending a work potluck, or joining friends and family, below are 10 Dietitian-approved simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer ideas that bring flavor and holiday cheer while supporting your wellness goals. Many of these are so simple and easy-to-prepare, that they hardly need a recipe!

Why Appetizers Matter More Than You Think

Holiday appetizers often get a bad reputation as “mindless munching,” but they don’t have to be. Balanced appetizers that include protein, fiber, and healthy fats can:

• Add nutrients, variety, and color to your plate

• Help regulate blood sugar

• Increase satisfaction, so that you can enjoy food without guilt

• Prevent arriving at the main meal overly hungry

How to Build a Balanced Holiday Appetizer Spread

If you’re hosting or considering what to bring to a holiday gathering, think in categories to balance out the nutrition:

• Protein-rich options: Greek yogurt–based dips, cheese, fish, seafood, lean meats, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds

• Fiber-forward foods: Vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes, whole grains

• Healthy fats: Olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado, hummus
  

A mix of textures and flavors helps everyone find something they enjoy. The goal isn’t to make every bite “perfect,” but to create options that will help you feel your best.

10 Registered Dietitian–Approved Healthy Holiday Appetizers

1. Caprese Mozzarella Ball Skewers
   

   Cherry tomatoes alternated on a skewer with fresh mozzarella balls and basil and drizzled with Balsamic Glaze makes for a colorful, flavorful easy-to-eat appetizer. It's portion-controlled and adds a fresh element to heavier spreads.
   

2. Antipasto Wreath Platters Arrange rosemary sprigs in a circle on a platter, then build your wreath around with marinated mixed olives, mini mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, marinated red peppers, artichoke hearts, gherkins, or roasted vegetables. Consider serving with artisan sourdough or whole grain crackers served in a bowl in the center. Drizzle with quality olive oil before serving!
   

3. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites Spread low-fat cream cheese, Neufchâtel cheese, or Boursin cheese on cucumber slices and top with a small piece of smoked salmon. Add lemon juice, chives, dill, and/or capers for additional flavor and color.
   

4. Cheese and Almond Stuffed Dates Pitted dates stuffed with goat cheese or with blue cheese (for a tangier flavor) offer a perfect sweet and savory combination. Crunch can be added with roasted nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios. Serve room temperature or warmed in the oven at 350-375°F. Drizzle with honey, a balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or mint for an elegant finish.
   

5. Stuffed Mushrooms Fill cremini or baby bella mushroom caps with crab meat, low-fat cream cheese, shallot or a vegetarian blend of spinach, garlic, feta. Then, top with bread crumbs and bake at 400°F until tender and golden. Garnish with herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill.
   

6. Shrimp Cocktail Shrimp cocktail is a holiday staple that looks fancy, but is so simple to make! You can make your own shrimp cocktail with poached shrimp, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges. For the cocktail sauce, you can make your own or use store-bought. It's a great way to incorporate a low-fat protein-rich starter.
   

7. Homemade Hummus, White Bean Dip, or Beet Dip Dips are packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and heart-healthy fats and help to support digestion. Blend beans, chickpeas, and/or colorful vegetables with garlic, lemon, olive oil, fresh herbs for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be served with veggies, crackers, or sweet potato crostini. Consider this Parsley White Bean Dip!
   

8. Festive Spinach Balls Savory and crispy, spinach balls are packed full of nutrient-rich spinach which is high in iron, folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. These are more healthy than your average appetizer and are easy-to-make. Combine thawed/drained frozen spinach with eggs, onion, seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices to make these festive treats!
   

9. Sweet Potato Crostini You won't even miss the bread with sweet potato crostini and all of the wonderful topping combinations you can do! Start with slicing a sweet potato with peel into thin discs. Brush lightly with olive oil and top with some salt and additional flavor enhancers like cumin or cinnamon, if desired. Roast on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F until both edges are golden brown. Top with goat cheese, walnuts, pomegranate seeds or smoked salmon, chive or pear, honey, thyme. The options are endless!
   

10. Roasted Grapes with Baked Brie Roasted grapes with baked brie is an unexpected delightful combination. Toss your grapes in olive oil and thyme, then place in a baking dish and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Bake a wheel of brie in the oven for 6-8 minutes until it begins to soften. Remove the brie from oven, transfer to serving dish, and pour the roasted grapes on the top for a savory and sweet pre-dinner treat.
    

Healthy eating during the holidays isn’t about restriction—it’s about feeling good, staying energized, and savoring what you love most. Choosing nutrient-dense appetizers is one of the easiest ways to support your body and your festive spirit while leaving room for the main meal.

Wishing you and your family a delicious, joyful, and well-nourished holiday season!