Christmas Hors d'Oeuvres

Christmas food such as hors d'oeuvres, from the French, meaning "outside the work," can be harder to spell (hors d'oeuvres, hors d'ouevre, hor douvres or hor'dourves) than they are to actually prepare! Most American chefs and hosts will resort to preparing "appetizers" simply because it's easier to say.

The Italians call it antipasto, meaning "before the meal." The Spanish call it tapas; Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures call it meze; and the Russians call it zakuski. No matter what you call it, everyone enjoys delicious finger food before a meal.

During the holiday season, Christmas hors d'oeuvres are great to serve either before a formal Christmas meal or as snack food during a casual cocktail party. Below you'll find a sampling of easy Christmas hors d'oeuvres, fit for any setting. Pair them with some of our other Christmas Dinner ideas for a complete festive meal.

Recipe

Sauteed Ginger Shrimp Appetizer

Shrimp is one of the most trusted appetizers around because most guests will gobble it right up. Instead of making a typical shrimp cocktail, try whipping up this ginger version for Christmas. It's a delicious twist on a classic, will entice your guests to eat more and give them something new to try! Read More

Recipe

Holiday Tea Sandwich Wreath

Arranging these pumpernickel tea sandwiches coated in fresh greens in the shape of a wreath is a great way to add a simple decoration to your Christmas party and satisfy your guests hungry appetites. This is one of the easiest dishes to make for your holiday party and one your guests are sure to enjoy. Read More

Recipe

Holiday Seared Bacon Wrapped Bay Scallops

There is nothing more satisfying than bacon wrapped scallops. Cheryl Dent gives us the how-to on making this tasty dish for a holiday party! Read More

Recipe

Cheesy Christmas Wreath

This edible hors d'oeuvre looks just like a wreath and makes for one delicious and festive holiday appetizer. Guests will appreciate the extra thought you've put into your holiday food! Read More

Recipe

Cinnamon Fruit Kebabs

A touch of Cinnamon is all you need to add a festive flavor to your Christmas foods. Sprinkle some of this seasonal spice on fruit skewers for a healthy, light and holiday flavored treat. Read More

Recipe

Asparagus Bruschetta

We don't know anyone who isn't a fan of bruschetta. Though we typically make ours with tomatoes during the summer, we like to top our sliced Italian bread with asparagus during the colder winter months. The result is a savory hors d'oeuvre that's warm, crisp and festive! Read More

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