16 Festive Appetizers to Kick Off Your New Year’s Celebration

New Year’s Eve is all about good vibes, great company, and, of course, delicious food. When the countdown begins, having a table full of festive appetizers sets the perfect tone for the celebration. Whether you’re hosting a big bash or a cozy get-together, these small bites bring plenty of flavor and fun to the mix. From savory classics to creative twists, there’s something here to make everyone happy as you ring in the new year.

Caprese Ricotta Dip

This no-cook Caprese Ricotta Dip offers a fresh and creamy option for your appetizer spread. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth. Separately, blend 1 cup of canned whole peeled tomatoes with a pinch of salt to create a chunky tomato sauce. Layer the ricotta mixture on a serving dish, top with the tomato sauce, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve with pita chips or crostini for dipping into this light and flavorful dish.

Butternut Squash Fries

Butternut Squash Fries are a healthy and colorful addition to your appetizer lineup. Peel and cut a medium butternut squash into fry-shaped sticks. Toss the squash sticks with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are tender and lightly browned. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice for a nutritious and tasty snack.

Charred Poblano, Avocado, and Pepita Dip

This dip combines smoky, creamy, and crunchy elements for a unique flavor experience. Begin by roasting 2 poblano peppers until charred, then peel and dice them. In a bowl, mash 2 ripe avocados and mix in the diced poblanos, 1/4 cup of toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds), the juice of 1 lime, and salt to taste. Stir until well combined and serve with tortilla chips or sliced vegetables. This dip provides a delightful blend of textures and a mild heat, perfect for starting the festivities.

Crispy Falafel Bites with Tzatziki

These bite-sized falafels are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with a cool tzatziki sauce. In a food processor, combine 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, 1/4 cup of chopped onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of flour, and salt and pepper to taste. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms. Shape into small balls and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Serve warm with tzatziki sauce for dipping, offering guests a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Maple Roasted Spiced Nuts

A bowl of these spiced nuts provides a sweet and savory snack that’s hard to resist. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of mixed nuts (such as almonds, pecans, and cashews) with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Spread the nuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are toasted and fragrant. Allow to cool before serving, giving guests a crunchy treat with a hint of spice.

Dark Chocolate Coconut Tartlets

These mini tartlets offer a decadent, bite-sized dessert to conclude your appetizer selection. Prepare a crust by mixing 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham crackers with 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil. Press the mixture into mini tart pans to form shells. For the filling, melt 1 cup of dark chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of coconut milk over low heat, stirring until smooth. Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared tart shells and refrigerate until set. Garnish with shredded coconut before serving, providing a rich and satisfying sweet treat.

Whipped Feta Honey Toast

This appetizer combines creamy feta, sweet honey, and crisp toast for a delightful bite. In a food processor, blend 1 cup of feta cheese with 1/4 cup of cream cheese until smooth. Toast slices of baguette or artisan bread until golden and crisp. Spread the whipped feta generously on each slice and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or fresh thyme for added flavor. This appetizer offers a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any New Year’s gathering.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears bring elegance and simplicity to your table. Trim the ends of 12 asparagus spears and wrap each one with a thin slice of prosciutto. Place on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy. These flavorful bites combine the freshness of asparagus with the saltiness of prosciutto. Serve warm or at room temperature for a refined appetizer option.

Stuffed Mushroom Caps

Stuffed mushroom caps are a versatile appetizer that can be tailored to your guests’ tastes. Remove the stems from 20 large button mushrooms and finely chop them. Sauté the stems with garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, and your choice of herbs in olive oil. Fill the mushroom caps with this mixture, top with grated Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. These bite-sized morsels are both earthy and savory, a perfect fit for festive celebrations.

Shrimp Cocktail Shooters

Shrimp cocktail shooters are an upscale way to serve a classic appetizer. Place a spoonful of cocktail sauce at the bottom of a shot glass, and perch a cooked, chilled shrimp on the rim. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of parsley for a stylish presentation. This individual serving style is convenient and visually appealing. These shooters are light yet flavorful, perfect for kicking off the evening.

Mini Caprese Skewers

Mini Caprese skewers are colorful and fresh, making them ideal for a celebratory spread. Thread cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto toothpicks or small skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. These skewers are a no-cook option that bursts with Italian-inspired flavors. Their vibrant appearance adds a festive touch to your appetizer table.

Deviled Eggs with a Twist

Deviled eggs get a modern update with unique toppings and fillings. Halve and scoop out the yolks from 12 hard-boiled eggs, then mix the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Fill the egg whites with this mixture and top with crumbled bacon, pickled jalapeños, or fresh chives. These eggs are creamy, tangy, and customizable to your preferences. They’re a classic crowd-pleaser with an innovative spin.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a warm, creamy favorite that’s perfect for dipping. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of chopped spinach, 1 cup of chopped artichoke hearts, 1 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of sour cream, and minced garlic. Bake the mixture in a casserole dish at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips, bread, or vegetable sticks for dipping. This rich, cheesy appetizer is ideal for cold winter nights and festive gatherings.

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers bring a spicy and savory kick to your New Year’s menu. Slice 12 jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill each half with a mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, then wrap with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy. These poppers are a flavorful, crowd-pleasing finger food.

Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls

Puff pastry sausage rolls are flaky, savory, and easy to prepare. Roll out a sheet of puff pastry and cut it into strips. Place cooked sausage links or ground sausage mixed with herbs onto the pastry, roll tightly and seal the edges. Brush with egg wash, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until golden, and slice into bite-sized pieces. These warm and hearty rolls are perfect for any celebration.

Cranberry and Brie Bites

Cranberry and Brie bites offer a festive combination of sweet and savory flavors. Cut pre-made puff pastry into small squares and place them in a mini muffin tin. Fill each with a small piece of Brie cheese and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden. These elegant bites are an effortless way to add a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s table.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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