Healthier Holiday Apps

Healthy appetizers for holiday gatherings

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Appetizers are meant to hold your guests over until the meal, not fill them up before it starts! Instead of high calorie gut-busters, serve some of these better-for-everyone finger foods at your next holiday shindig.

Shrimp

Low calorie and high protein shrimp are always a crowd pleaser, and they pair so well with sweet and juicy pineapple.

Deviled Eggs

This classic recipe gets a makeover using nonfat Greek yogurt instead of calorie-heavy mayo, plus a kick of spice and vinegar.

Cheese & Crackers (2 Ways)

A small portion of cheese can be a satisfying snack before a holiday meal. Serve along with fresh fruit like figs or grapes and whole grain crackers. Use these tips for assembling the perfect cheese platter.

Dips

Instead of dozens of mediocre dips, make one outstanding one. Serve with fresh veggie sticks to keep the calories low.

Recipes: Hot Crab Dip and Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip (pictured above)

Poppers

Heat things up with a more elegant version of the popular pub grub. Yes, even a little bacon is allowed for the festivities!

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are an easy way to highlight vegetables on your appetizer table. Keeping the ingredients light with more veggies and a touch of cheese for this filling to make this recipe healthy yet satisfying.

Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of  Dana White Nutrition, Inc. , which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition.

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