by Phyllis Collar
The holidays are upon us, again. Relatives and friends are congregating at one another’s homes for all-day eating, often followed by getting drowsy in front of a football game… at least for many of you. But no matter who gathers around your holiday table, one thing is for sure, everyone has different tastes in food. Some have special diets due to medical conditions, others have restrictions due to allergies or weight loss goals, and kiddos might be picky or prefer snack-sized bites instead of a large meal. As a result, I read up on all kinds of appetizers for the holidays and curated a collection of the ones that look yummy to me, and are sure to satisfy everyone’s tastes.
For Kids
Let’s face it, they can be picky. But even the pickiest eaters like some kind of fruit. So, cut a variety of fruits and let the kids have fun putting their own fruit kebabs together. How about cookie-cutter pizzas? Use a festive shape such as a Christmas tree or star to cut pre-made pizza dough. Let the kids add sauce and toppings, if you can handle a little mess.
For Heart-Healthy and Calorie-Conscious Diets
Roasted Moroccan chickpeas are a healthy choice. Add spice, or roast them plain. Best heated in a skillet of oil on the stove. A raw vegetable platter with several dips is a healthy option and can accommodate most restrictions. A few dips to consider are traditional and flavored hummus, tzatziki (salted Greek yogurt with cucumber), and whipped feta or goat cheese dips.
For Decadent, Crowd-Pleasing Options
Baked brie is irresistible when paired with sweet or savory accompaniments. Festive fruit jams, like cranberry or fig, add flair, especially with chopped pecans. Deviled eggs, in various styles, are always appreciated. Buffalo cauliflower or broccoli wings, with crispy edges and tender centers, suit any palate. Swap buffalo sauce for honey mustard or teriyaki for variety.
No matter your guests this holiday season, here’s hoping I’ve given you enough ideas to satisfy them all!
This article was originally published in the November 2025 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
