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If you thought throwing a party meant that you can only resort to bacon appetizers and cheesy dips, think again! Sure, those classic finger foods are always crowd-pleasing, but they might not be in line with your healthy eating goals. Instead, keep things light and fresh with these healthy appetizer ideas. They're filling enough to hold your guests over until dinner, but they won't ruin your appetite, either. And the best part is that they don't skimp on flavor! Here, you’ll find party dips, snacks, and protein-packed bites (like Ree Drummond's whipped deviled eggs)—all of which are great for a healthy game day, holiday, or even a Sunday afternoon.
To kick things off, try one of the vegetable options, like stuffed mushrooms, buffalo cauliflower bites, healthy soup recipes, and crudités with a creamy herb dip. Or opt for a protein-packed choice, like red pepper hummus, co*cktail meatballs, and coconut shrimp. To make your healthy eating habits easier, we've also included plenty of air fryer recipes that turn out crispy, crunchy finger foods, like air fryer mozzarella sticks, without having to deep fry. Whether you're looking for a New Year’s appetizer, a healthy Christmas recipe, or a Super Bowl snack—with these good-for-you appetizers, you won’t miss out on anything this holiday season! For more healthy eating ideas, try out healthy cookie recipes, too!
1
Avocado Dip
Made with heart-healthy avocado and protein-back yogurt, this dip is a lovely, bright addition to any party. It gets a ton of flavor from basil, green onions, lemon, and garlic. Serve it up with fresh cut veggies, like radishes, cucumbers, and carrots.
Get the Avocado Dip recipe.
2
Deviled Eggs
You can't go wrong with classic deviled eggs. These little bites are packed with enough protein to keep you satisfied and they can also be customized based on your preferences. Add a touch of hot sauce if you can handle the spice!
Get the Deviled Eggs recipe.
3
Burrata Salad
Creamy burrata cheese is just one part of this vibrant salad. There's also colorful tomatoes, healthy arugula, shallots, and herbs.
Get the Burrata Salad recipe.
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4
Eggplant Caponata
If you're looking to load up on veggies, this is the recipe for you! The traditional dish is packed with eggplant, peppers, onions, celery, and tomatoes. You can serve it with multi-grain crackers or scoop it up with hearty endive slices.
Get the Eggplant Caponata recipe.
5
Air Fryer Fried Pickles
Those who love this classic bar snack will appreciate the healthy twist of this recipe made in an air fryer! Trust us when we say they get just as crispy.
Get the Air Fryer Fried Pickles recipe.
6
Spinach Dip
Spinach is one of those ingredients that's packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals! The green leafy vegetable even makes an irresistible party dip. What can't it do?
Get the Spinach Dip recipe.
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7
Couscous Salad
Eating healthy is as easy as adding some color to your plate! The bright pops of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, pomegranate seeds, and herbs makes this dish an instant hit.
Get the Couscous Salad recipe.
8
Cauliflower Crust Pizza
Cut this pizza into smaller pieces for an easy appetizer that's low in carbs. Instead of your typical crust, it's made with good-for-you cauliflower instead!
Get the Cauliflower Crust Pizza recipe.
9
Air Fryer Onion Rings
You won't hear any complaints when these crispy snacks hit the table! They're just like the original, only without the deep frying.
Get the Air Fryer Onion Rings recipe.
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10
Pico de Gallo
Chunkier and fresher than salsa, pico de gallo is a fun dip to make for taco night or game night. You can even make it alongside our favorite guacamole recipe ahead!
Get the Pico de Gallo recipe.
11
Dill Dip
This creamy dip gets a burst of bright flavor from pickle juice, dill, and parsley. It's delicious when served with a rainbow of veggies.
Get the Dill Dip recipe.
12
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Thought you couldn't have cheesy appetizers when you're trying to eat healthy? Well, think again! These mozzarella sticks are made in an air fryer so they're crispy without being greasy.
Get the Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks recipe.
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13
Cowboy Caviar
This is not your average salsa—it's loaded with protein-packed black beans and black-eyed peas. Plus, there are flavorful mix-ins, like bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, onion, and cilantro.
Get the Cowboy Caviar recipe.
14
Coconut Shrimp
Give your party a tropical spin with this coconut crusted shrimp. The sweet dipping sauce is an added bonus.
Get the Coconut Shrimp recipe.
15
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Not only do you get a boost of protein from the chickpeas in this homemade hummus, but you also get a burst of color and flavor from the roasted red peppers. Serve it up with veggie sticks to make it even healthier.
Get the Roasted Red Pepper Hummus recipe.
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16
Chef's Salad on a Stick
Here's a way to make eating salad more fun: serve it on a stick! This one has all the ingredients of a classic Chef’s salad, including lettuce, deli meats, hard-boiled eggs, and more.
Get the Chef's Salad on a Stick recipe.
17
Best-Ever Guacamole
Avocados are rich in vitamins C and E, plus they're packed with healthy fats that help keep you feeling satisfied. They also happen to be the main ingredient in everyone's favorite dip.
Get the Best-Ever Guacamole recipe.
18
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Ree considers sweet potato fries to be "one of the best snacks in the world." And they just so happen to be lighter in the air fryer!
Get the Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries recipe.
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19
Instant Pot Lentil Soup
Lentils have plenty of fiber and protein to fill you up, but they're also low in fat and sodium making them a great choice for healthy eating.
Get the Instant Pot Lentil Soup recipe.
20
Air Fryer Egg Rolls
It can be hard to resist the crunchy goodness of a fried egg roll. Luckily, you don’t have to! This version is made in an air fryer so it’s crispy and light.
Get the Air Fryer Egg Rolls recipe.
