20 Holiday Appetizers

Party starters that impress. Twenty holiday appetizers from elegant to easy.

5 recipesBrowse Holiday & Seasonal Recipes →

Classic Apple Pie

Flaky double-crust apple pie with cinnamon-spiced filling and a golden lattice top. The all-American dessert — easier than it looks and impossible to resist warm with ice cream.

1h 25m8 servings

dessertbakingcomfort-food

Medium

Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Tender grape leaves rolled around herbed rice and pine nuts. A classic Greek meze — tangy, delicate, and perfect with lemon.

1h 15m6 servings

appetizervegetarianhealthy

Easy

Gambas al Ajillo

Sizzling garlic shrimp in olive oil with chili and parsley. Ready in minutes and one of Spain's most beloved tapas.

18 min4 servings

appetizerquick30-minutes

Hard

Croquetas de Jamón

Creamy béchamel croquettes studded with Serrano ham, breaded and fried until golden. The ultimate Spanish tapa — crispy outside, molten inside.

45 min6 servings

appetizercomfort-food

Easy

Patatas Bravas

Crispy fried potatoes with smoky bravas sauce and garlicky aioli. The most famous tapa in Spain — bold, saucy, and irresistible.

40 min4 servings

appetizerkid-friendlycomfort-food

Frequently Asked Questions

What appetizer can I make ahead for a party?

Cheese boards, spinach dip, and stuffed mushrooms can all be prepped hours before guests arrive.