5 Easy Appetizers To Impress Your Family/Friends For The Holidays
Easy appetizers that taste wonderful will have you the talk of the town for months, maybe even years, but you will have to bring your A-game every single time. It is already hard having to decide what you should bring, so imagine having to bring one to every function? #PleaseSendHelp. When it comes down to it, the most simplest things can make anyone go crazy, so you don’t have to go crazy yourself. With that being said, here are a few recipes for easy appetizers that should definitely be at the top of the list. On top of that, all of these appetizers don’t take a long time to cook, and can be done within 35 minutes. They’re perfect for when you are in a rush and don’t know what to bring or make, and not only that, but most of these ingredients are already in your home, and now that’s the definition of easy appetizers.
1. Creole Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
When you think of easy appetizers, you think of the classic ‘Deviled Eggs’, but you don’t think to add Creole and Cajun in the same sentence. This little flare of spice will set your taste buds off. All you need is shrimp, Tony Chachere’s ‘The Original Creole Seasoning’, Slap Ya Mama ‘Cajun Seasoning’ and eggs. Deviled eggs is the definition of easy appetizers and you simply can’t enjoy a holiday feast without it. Since they are already a little plain, this recipe will make everyone go crazy and obsessive over, and who doesn’t love to add shrimp to a meal? This little crustacean can make a meal go from 0 to 100 without even trying. The one thing that really sets this recipe off is that there is minced shrimp within the filling itself! Wow. I’m drooling just thinking about it. If it’s one thing someone will mention over the next few months it’s this appetizer right here. I can already see the line in front of this dish now.
The best thing about this dish is how easy it is. It is considered one of those dishes that are perfect for family and friends because of its size. If you want to really add a little flare, add a whole shrimp on top and don’t forget to add paprika and parsley for some decoration.
2. Baked Brie
Cheese, cheese, and more cheese. For those who don’t know; Brie has a mild taste, and is very buttery and creamy. It is considered one of those cheeses that everyone would just love because it doesn’t have that typical sharp cheese taste, and can be even be enjoyed by children. When it comes to baked Brie you may wonder what you should eat it with, but you can almost use anything because of it’s wonderful taste. The best combination would be baked Brie with thinly sliced apples, topped with honey and nuts, or you can scoop it with thin sliced crackers. You may ask how exactly are you suppose to bake it, and all you need to do is pop it in the oven at 350 degrees for 5 to 7 minutes and watch it come out the oven in all it’s perfect glory.
3. Goat Cheese Stuffed Roasted Fig
Yes. You read that right. Goat Cheese Stuffed Roasted Fig. You may ask why, and my answer will simply be, why not? The sweetness of the fig, mixed with the mild and light taste of goat cheese would be spectacular together. Even though this may seem it could take hours to make and extensive to prepare, it only takes 25-30 minutes to finish everything from start to finish. Perfect for that last minute meal that you want to make an impression with, and the plus side is that you can bring this dish to all functions, not just the holidays. The only problem you would have with this dish is when the figs are in season to eat. Figs typically are in season from August to October. Whole figs aren’t typically around all year and the ones that you do see tend to not be as ripe as you would want, so it’s best to either stockpile and freeze before use. Even if it may not be fresh as you would like, it is still going to be delicious, and when you do get to try it you’d see how perfect of an appetizer it is.
4. Parmesan Crusted Brussel Sprouts
If you are looking for an easy appetizer that would be perfect for everyone then this is the right recipe for you. This dish may also grab a few laughs here and there because as a child you automatically hated anything to do with Brussel sprouts but now it is brought to a gathering to enjoy for the holidays, and since it is on the “healthier” side you won’t feel as guilty knowing that you ate one too many. Out of all of the appetizers listed, this may be the easiest one because all you need is seasoning, Brussel sprouts and parmesan cheese. Not only that, but add a homemade dip on the side and this may be considered one of the best appetizers out there.
5. Fried Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls
Mashed potatoes, cheese and fried. The best sentence combo anyone can think of because who doesn’t love cheese or mashed potatoes? This delicious dish only take 25 minutes to cook, so it is extremely easy and perfect to make for family and friends and can be enjoyed by young children as well. This is also one of those appetizers where you don’t have to worry about adding too much. Some dishes that require being fried may need a dipping sauce to cut the taste of fried food, but this is simply a masterpiece in itself. Yes, you can add a side dip, but it is not needed. This is also one of those appetizers that can be made at every holiday event.
All in all, if you are stressing about making the most perfect and easy appetizer to share with your family and friends for a holiday gathering — don’t. These dishes are exactly what you need and can be done the day of the event you are to attend. The main important thing to remember when making these easy appetizers is to have fun. There is no reason why you should be stressing over a holiday dish that family and friends would have to eat because at the end of the day, you tried your hardest and those closest to you should be able to understand that.
