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3 Healthy Appetizers Worth Trying This Holiday Season

December 14, 2025

Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or looking for something simple to bring to a potluck, cooking for the holidays can feel like a chore. And if you’re aiming for healthy holiday appetizers while keeping flavor intact? It might seem impossible.

Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to keep your recipes light. These healthy holiday appetizers combine color, texture and flavor to make sure each bite feels as good as it tastes.

“Leaning into seasonal ingredients is one of the easiest ways to boost nutrition,” says Samantha Oldman, RD, with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. “Foods like pomegranate, citrus and herbs naturally add brightness, flavor and nutrients to holiday dishes.”

Here are three crowd pleasing options that do exactly that.

1. Pomegranate brie bruschetta

From sweet to tangy, this dish covers every flavor note. Fresh pomegranate seeds and cranberries bring antioxidants and vibrant color, while a thin layer of melted brie adds richness.

“This bruschetta looks fancy but relies on nutrient-dense ingredients,” Oldman says. “Pomegranates and cranberries offer antioxidants and herbs add flavor without extra salt.”

It’s a bright, festive option that feels indulgent while staying balanced.

Get the recipe: Pomegranate Brie Bruschetta

2. Cranberry nut cheese balls

These festive cheese balls disappear fast — and it’s easy to see why. The coating of chopped cranberries, nuts and fresh herbs gives each bite sweetness, crunch and color.

“Using low-fat cheeses creates that texture people love without all the saturated fat,” says Oldman. “And the cranberries and herbs add antioxidants and brightness that balance the dish perfectly.”

Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize with your favorite flavors.

Get the recipe: Cranberry Nut Cheese Balls

3. Shrimp cocktail with a homemade sauce

Shrimp cocktail is a classic — and with a lighter, homemade cocktail sauce, it’s also a smart holiday choice. It’s naturally lean, while fresh lemon juice and horseradish add bold flavor with almost no calories.

“One of the best proteins you can serve is shrimp,” says Oldman. “And when you pair it with a cocktail sauce made from real ingredients instead of added sugars, you get something much lighter overall.”

It’s elegant and perfect for guests who want something fresh between heavier dishes.

Get the recipe: Shrimp Cocktail With a Homemade Sauce