Holiday Appetizers We’re Eyeing (+ a Couple Tried-and-True Recipes!)

I hope you all had a fun Thanksgiving! It was a much-needed break for us, full of that festive combo of family, food, and relaxation. 

Bjorn and I enjoyed Thanksgiving with his family on Thursday, and then we hosted some members of my family at our place on Friday! It was our first time hosting for an actual holiday, and it ended up being a big success! Even the turkey turned out! 🙂 It was our first time roasting a turkey so I was a little nervous, but Bjorn really did a lot of the work (and he is so great in the kitchen). 

We do really enjoy hosting, and holidays can be such a fun excuse to whip out the fancier stoneware and elegant meal ideas. Bjorn and I wanted to create a festive atmosphere that my family would notice right away when they entered our house, so we set out a nice little spread of appetizers and drinks on our living room coffee table. 

On Friday when we hosted my family, the appetizers included: Grape Salsa On Goat Cheese Crostini, caprese salad bites, rolled wafer cookies, and sparkling juices. But we always love finding new appetizer recipes, and with the 2016 holiday season in full swing, it’s definitely the perfect time to collect and share appetizer ideas!

This list I’ve compiled includes some that we’ve been eyeing and would love to try…and some that are tried-and-true!

^^ This is my recipe for Pear & Goat Cheese Crostini (see link below!) ^^

Holiday Appetizer Ideas:

Grape Salsa On Goat Cheese Crostini // TRIED AND TRUE. My dad said this was one of the best appetizers he’s ever tasted!! We’ve made this recipe several times by now and it is seriously SO VERY GOOD!!

Mini Reuben Sandwiches // TRIED AND TRUE. These are cute, and are a slightly more hearty appetizer option. They’re also totally delicious if you like Reubens!

Garlic Ranch Pretzels // TRIED AND TRUE. This one is a dangerous recipe to make…they’re that good, and addicting! These pretzels are less of an ultra-classy appetizer, but they are so delicious! I’d definitely recommend them for a game night or gathering with friends.

Mini Tacos in Wonton Wrappers // These look so great! I love how versatile wonton wrappers can be!

Caprese Salad Bites // We actually had a version of these as appetizers for our wedding!! What you do: skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls (or pieces), and fresh basil leaves onto toothpicks. Drizzle with olive oil. (These are AMAZING.)

Rosemary Parmesan Garlic Popcorn // I am loving rosemary lately! And parmesan really adds a more elegant edge to this typical snack food.

Cranberry Brie & Prosciutto Crostini // Bjorn and I are big fans of crostini. And brie. And prosciutto. 😉 This sounds amazing!

Pear & Goat Cheese Crostini // TRIED AND TRUE. I came up with this recipe when I guest posted on my friend Madison’s blog. The pears are so delicious with the goat cheese spread, AND the rosemary adds a special touch!

What are your favorite party appetizers to offer guests and family?? We’re ALWAYS on the lookout for more ideas!