
These super-quick recipes—from a sophisticated take on nachos to a luscious crab and artichoke dip to ultra-crispy fried chickpeas—help kick off holiday parties on a most delicious note.
-
Recipe
Seared Scallops with Cucumber and Jalapeño
These cool bites offer a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, pairing tender, caramelized scallops with crunchy cucumber, spicy jalapeño, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. -
Recipe
Smoked Trout with Apple and Crème Fraîche
In this savory-sweet nibble, thinly sliced apple is a fresh, creative stand-in for crostini or crackers. -
Recipe
Fried Chickpeas with Garam Masala
Once you start eating these crispy spiced chickpeas, you won’t want to stop. -
Recipe
Spicy Sesame Tuna Tartare
Lighter than sushi, this hors d’oeuvre features the delicious contrast between silky raw tuna and crunchy rice crackers. -
Recipe
Cranberry-Pecan Croutons with Gruyère and Rosemary
Crisp on the outside, tender within, and covered in melted cheese, these ooey-gooey herby croutons are to die for. -
Recipe
Gorgonzola and Fontina Nachos with Fennel and Mint
This sophisticated take on nachos may sound unusual, but the salty-tangy Gorgonzola and creamy fontina meld beautifully, fennel seeds add a subtle anise note, and fresh mint brightens the mix. -
Recipe
Zucchini Casino
In this creative spin on clams casino, zucchini coins stand in for the bivalves. -
Recipe
Warm Chicken Pâté
It’s not traditional to serve chicken liver pâté warm, but it’s undeniably delicious. This decadent recipe uses both chicken livers and thighs for a milder flavor. -
Recipe
Creamy Crab and Artichoke Dip
Splurge on fresh jumbo lump crabmeat for this tasty dip or, for a less expensive option, use pasteurized “special” crabmeat from the canned seafood aisle. -
Recipe
Warm Spiced Olives
This recipe gives you two hors d’oeuvres in one—fragrant spiced olives and an infused oil that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread.