7 Elegant Can’t-Miss Holiday Party Appetizers from The Chew

A few years ago, wanting to make the holidays bigger and better than ever, I coined in a phrase in our house: Christmas explosion. It refers to the rapid, widespread and shiny explosion of Christmas decorations throughout our house. Each year, it’s a little different. But the result is the same: making the house feel as festive as the holidays should be.

It’s all about capturing the spirit of the season — even when we’re busy.

Do you love the holiday season? We do.

And this season, when your halls are decked, why not throw an unforgettable holiday party? With the champagne chilled and the candles twinkling, invite your nearest and dearest over … and don’t forget the holiday party appetizers.

7 elegant holiday party appetizers from ABC’s The Chew

White Bean Crostini with Arugula – Ready in just a few minutes, this tasty bite features a crostini topped with a quick white bean spread and lemon dressed arugula. It’s easy, quick and full of flavor.

Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus – This elegant atmosphere combines a few of my very favorite things: Salty prosciutto, earthy asparagus and a quick homemade vinaigrette, all made in minutes. How can you go wrong?

Broccoli Stem Pesto – If you have leftover broccoli stems hanging out in the fridge like me, this recipe is for you. Whip this easy pesto up and offer it as a spread with a selection of meats, cheese, crackers and bread nibbles.

Clementine, Pecan and Goat Cheese Bites – Endive leaves hold dollops of goat cheese, clementine sections and pecans, all drizzled with a fresh vinaigrette. It’s so simple, yet so beautiful — and tasty too.

Sweet Potato Chips – Every party is a little better with chips and dip … but it’s a lot better when those chips are homemade Sweet Potato Chips like these.

60 Second Guacamole – Wait? Dip? Make that Guacamole! Like this one … ready in a minute.

Baked Feta – The name is interesting, but the dish itself is lovely — feta is baked with tomatoes, olives, herbs, garlic and more and then served with grilled shrimp. Too cold to grill for you? Roast the shrimp in the oven.

The Chew and its’ hosts — Mario Batali, Clinton Kelly, Daphne Oz, Michael Symon and Carla Hall — are a fun bunch who seem to really enjoy each other.

Taping The Chew

When I went to a taping of The Chew, shortly after their 2011 premiere, I was really excited to see how the cast interacted behind the scenes. Though they have different perspectives, personalities and expertise, they exude a keen respect for each other and a way of enthusing extra enthusiasm into everything they do. It was like a holiday party on the set.

And with the holidays approaching, this is a show to watch. The Chew is the place to find anything and everything holiday-related. Tune in to watch The Chew Holidays on weekdays 1 p.m. EST, 12 p.m. CST and PST, on ABC.

Also, be sure to check out The Chew website for great recipes, crafts and tips/hacks to prepare for the holidays. You can also follow The Chew on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and
Instagram.