8 Healthy Appetizers for NYE

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I’ve never wanted healthy food more in my life than I do right now. My jeans are tight, my coat barely buttons and I feel like I gained at least 56 pounds over the 4 days I was in Cleveland. Healthy is the only type of food I can manage to think about today.

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Which is why I’m actually excited to share these 8 healthy appetizers with you guys here. Not only am I craving them like mad right now, I’m guessing most of you are in the same exact boat I am today. Where you’re actually craving a power smoothie over a cookie and will probably burst into tears if you’re served another piece of prime rib. So friends, let’s do this whole “healthy new year” thing together by celebrating with apps that won’t bust that last button on your favorite jeans.

Crispy cauliflower bites

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If you want to know what my new favorite food is, you’ve found it. These crispy cauliflower bites are not only easy, healthy and perfectly portable, they’re to die for. When I first made these, I ate the entire batch. The second batch was eaten mostly by me. Finally by the third batch, I had to hide them so my husband could attest to their deliciousness. Trust me, your guests will adore these. Grab the recipe for these bites on SheKnows.com!

Bloody mary bacon jelly

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Now I’m completely aware of how bizzare the combo sounds in this recipe, but trust me, it works. The mix of salty bacon, spicy bloody mary mix and tangy vinegar creates a flavor that will have your taste buds singing. To update these for your fancy soiree, spread the bacon on crispy pieces of french bread and add a dash of freshly grated parmesan. Grab the recipe here on SheKnows.com!

Cheesy kale and artichoke dip

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You can’t have any cocktail party without a cheesy, savory dip, am I right? This lighter version is made with Greek yogurt, part skim cheese and kale, which makes it secretly lower in fat. I say secretly because no one will be any the wiser when they take a big bite of this dip. It tastes just like the kind you’d order in your favorite restaurant, only better. Grab the recipe here on my blog!

Black bean quesadillas with avocado cream

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When you think New Years appetizers, a quesadilla is probably the last thing you think of. Well friends, I’m here to change that. These darling little quesadillas, topped with fresh avocado cream and stuffed with a health mix of black beans and salsa, are cut into smaller portions, making them a perfect pair with a glass of bubbly. Grab the recipe for these bite-size snacks on SheKnows.com!

Fig and brussel sprout crostinis

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I know figs are a bit hard to find this time of year, but don’t let that deter you from making these stunning crostinis. In place of them, add some sliced pears, plums or even fresh berries for the same effect. I love the addition of brussel sprouts because they add just the right dash of bright green color. Grab the recipe for these on SheKnows.com!

Spicy BBQ baked chick peas

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It’s time to remove that sad bag of chips or pretzels from your rotation and sub in these zesty and crispy chick peas instead. These baked bites are as crispy and flavorful as a bag of chips, with more than half the calories and fat. Plus they’re perfectly probably and make a great bite for when you’re waiting for the ball to drop (as long as you have some mints handy for that romantic NYE kiss). Grab the recipe here on SheKnows.com!

Tuna spring rolls with melon

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If you’re one of those lucky ducks spending your holidays somewhere warm, these spring rolls are a must for your NYE party. Or, if you’re like me and you’re stuck spending your New Years in rainy cold, you can make these and pretend you’re on a beach instead. Either way, these ridiculously low calorie bites are super easy to make and are full of fresh Asian flavors. You won’t be able to have just one. Grab the recipe here on my blog!

Veggie loaded Thai pizza

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Even though I had my FILL of pizza this holiday (it’s our family tradition to enjoy it the day after Christmas), I’d still eat the crap out of this veggie loaded spicy pie. Because it’s loaded with rustic vegetables, a lower sodium sauce and lighter cheese, it doesn’t pack the same gut-wrenching punch as a normal pizza. To serve it for your holiday party, cut the slices into small squares for easy & portable eating. Grab the recipe on SheKnows.com!

Whatever your New Years plans are, these fun appetizers will make any of your parties simply delicious. Plus, you won’t need fat pants afterwards, which is a huge win in my book!

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Comments

  1. Posted by Heather // girlichef on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    I'm pretty much in the same boat, craving healthier foods now (but also hearty, comforting soups - so go figure). These all look delicious, and I NEEED that Bloody Mary Bacon Jelly in my life STAT (I'm getting an "error" page when I try to click through on that link, though).
    • Posted by cgallam10 on
      Monday, December 29th, 2014
      Oh no! It doesn't actually go live until Wednesday morning. I'll update!
  2. Posted by Cookin Canuck on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    I am craving nothing but healthy foods now that Christmas is over. Bring on those spring rolls, I say!
  3. Monday, December 29th, 2014
    Yay for heathy, delicious appetizers! They all look amazing!
  4. Posted by The Food Hunter on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    there are some wonderful options listed here.
  5. Posted by foodwanderings on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    Love all these mouthwatering bites. Perfect for a holiday and a NYE party! Delicious. The chickpeas, pizza bites and spring rolls are my favorites!
  6. Posted by Martha@A Family Feast on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    Yup - I'm ready for healthy...I thoroughly enjoyed the holidays this year but am craving healthier food! Great collection!
  7. Posted by Bea on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    I would like to sample at least a couple of every single one of your delicious looking appetizers. Yummy!!
  8. Posted by Paula - bell'alimento on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    Everything looks delicious! What a great group of recipes.
  9. Monday, December 29th, 2014
    oooo man! That Cheesy kale and artichoke dip looks insane! I need it all!
  10. Posted by Ginny McMeans on
    Monday, December 29th, 2014
    Thank you! I love to make dinners our of multiple appetizers so this will help after New Years too.
  11. Posted by Brenda@Sugar-Free Mom on
    Tuesday, December 30th, 2014
    They all sound and look amazing! Happy New Year!
  12. Posted by Nona on
    Tuesday, December 30th, 2014
    Thank you for planning my NYE menu! This all looks amazing.
  13. Posted by Susan on
    Tuesday, December 30th, 2014
    I hear you about some tight fitting pants! What a great list of recipes!
  14. Thursday, January 1st, 2015
    I'm with you - I'm so ready to pack up the cookies and pull out the greens and grains!