16 Extra-Special Holiday Appetizers That Will Impress Your Holiday Guests
Holiday gatherings are special by definition. So pull out all the stops and let guests know they’re in for a treat by starting the party with these extravagant appetizers.
Angela Brassinga
The holidays are all about creating a feeling of abundance and also providing unexpected surprises. Do both at this year’s holiday party by preparing one or more of these recipes. Whether you’re serving these treats by passing them around at a cocktail party or as the first course at a sit-down dinner, these dishes are sure to please. Oysters, caviar (California-raised roe is sustainable and affordable) and crab all feel luxurious, yet none will break the bank when served as suggested. From classic party snacks like kicky deviled eggs and tropical shrimp skewers to cross-cultural treats like tuna gravlax with avocado and pumpkin empanadas, these appetizers will make your holiday guests feel like they are at a swanky soirée from another time and place.
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Oysters with Verjus Mignonette
Make a grand statement by treating your guests to dozens of freshly shucked oysters. Set them in crushed ice and top with homemade mignonette.
Who doesn’t love a bit of bubbly during the holidays? You’ll be happy to know that potato chips are a perfect match with sparkling wine. Since it’s the holidays, top your chips with a little caviar and crème fraîche for extra-special indulgence. Assemble ahead of time or set the components out and let guests build their own.
Start your holiday party off with a bang and serve these crunchy treats. Seasoning the shrimp and wrapping it up with little bit of onion before frying is the extra touch that makes this appetizer holiday-worthy.
Duck breasts marinated in ginger and Chinese five-spice are a sweet-and-savory hit. Crisp skin and flavorful meat get extra zing from spicy mustard sauce.
Deviled eggs are the perfect party appetizer. Take them to the next level by adding Spanish flair with smoked paprika, homemade mayo, and crisp chorizo.
Sicilian Swordfish Rolls (Involtini di Pesce Spada)
San Diego fisherman Giacomo Damato found his favorite swordfish recipe on OurItalianTable.com; we’ve adapted it here, with red chile for gusto and panko for extra crunch. The fish may seem fragile when raw, but it will firm up in the pan.