The art of serving appetizers before a main course has been a standard tradition in hospitality for generations. These pre-dinner bites not only welcome guests but also create an inviting atmosphere. They’re particularly helpful when dinner preparations need extra time, acting as a delightful buffer that keeps guests satisfied and engaged — especially around the holidays. Friends, this is where Christmas appetizers enter the chat.

During the holidays, it’s important to select appetizers that reflect the special nature of the occasion. The key is finding the perfect balance between functionality, ease, and comfort.

For hosts of all skill levels, there are countless options to explore. From simple, quick-to-prepare finger foods to more elaborate creations that showcase your advanced cooking skills, the possibilities are endless. Some appetizers lean towards luxurious and rich flavors, while others offer classic, familiar tastes with a festive twist. The most important aspect is choosing options that will bring joy to your guests and set the perfect tone for your gathering.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up a few Christmas appetizers to serve your guests this season. If the recipes work out for you, don’t be afraid to tag Home & Texture on Instagram for a chance to be featured.

Christmas Appetizer Recipes:

@seasoned2taste

Smoked Salmon Glory Eggs 🍣🥚#deviledeggs #gloryeggs #smokedsalmonbagel #smokedsalmon #bagelsandlox #appetizer #fyp #fypシ

♬ Coi Leray Players DJ Saige Mashup – Saige K.

Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs

Ingredients

• 12 large eggs
• 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place eggs in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let stand covered for 12 minutes.
2. Transfer eggs to an ice bath and let cool completely. Peel the eggs.
3. Cut eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in a mixing bowl.
4. Mash the yolks with a fork, then mix in mayonnaise, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
5. Fold in chopped smoked salmon, dill, capers, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Spoon or pipe the mixture into the egg white halves.
7. Garnish with extra dill and small pieces of smoked salmon if desired.

Pro Tips

• Make ahead: It can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.
• For best results, bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing.
• Use fresh dill rather than dried for better flavor.

Baked Feta Pasta Cups

Ingredients

• 1 package mini pasta shells
• 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. Spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled feta, tomatoes, garlic and olive oil.
5. Mix in chopped basil, salt and pepper.
6. Divide mixture evenly into muffin tin cups.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are crispy and cheese is melted.
8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

@walderwellness

Herby Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms! These warm, cheesy, bite-sized delights are guaranteed to be a crowd pleasing holiday appetizer 🍄 FULL RECIPE on the blog, link in profile! #stuffedmushrooms #appetizerrecipe #holidayappetizer

♬ Emotions – Brenda Lee

Herby Goat-Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 24 medium cremini mushrooms
• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Clean mushrooms and remove stems. Set caps aside and finely chop stems.
3. Mix goat cheese, cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and chopped mushroom stems.
4. Fill each mushroom cap with cheese mixture.
5. Top with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

@kc_kitchen_

Feta Balsamic Bruschetta! 🥖🍅🧄 #bruschetta #feta #fetacheese #balsamicglaze #balsamic #easyrecipe #quickrecipe #appetizer #appetizers #foodie #foodtok

♬ You Make Me Feel So Young – Frank Sinatra

Feta Balsamic Bruschetta

Ingredients

• 1 French baguette, sliced diagonally
• 4 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice baguette diagonally into 1/2 inch pieces.
3. Brush bread slices with olive oil and toast in oven until lightly golden (about 5-7 minutes).
4. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil.
5. Add balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Top each toasted bread slice with tomato mixture.
7. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over each piece.
8. Serve immediately while bread is still warm.

@marthastewartliving

A perfectly crispy party snack 🥔 #marthastewart #potatorecipe #croquette

♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

Salmon x Mashed Potato Croquettes

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Mix mashed potatoes, flaked salmon, and chopped onion in a large bowl.
2. Add one beaten egg, parsley, salt and pepper; mix well.
3. Form mixture into small cylinder-shaped croquettes.
4. Set up breading station: place flour, remaining beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
5. Coat each croquette in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7. Fry croquettes until golden brown on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).
8. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.