The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. Christmas dinner is often the highlight of festive gatherings, and no feast is complete without some tasty starters to kick things off. But while it’s tempting to go all out, the key to a successful holiday meal is simplicity—starters that are easy to make yet still impress. Here are 20 easy Christmas dinner starters that are perfect for setting the mood at your festive table. Whether you prefer light and healthy options or rich, indulgent treats, there’s something here for everyone!
1. Smoked Salmon Blinis
A classic starter that never disappoints, smoked salmon blinis are both elegant and easy to prepare. Simply top small pancakes or blinis with a dollop of crème fraîche, a slice of smoked salmon, and garnish with fresh dill. The smoky flavor of the salmon combined with the creamy topping will have your guests eagerly anticipating the next course.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a versatile appetizer that can be made with a variety of fillings, such as cream cheese, garlic, spinach, or bacon. Bake them until golden and bubbly for a warm and savory bite that’s sure to please. Plus, they’re the perfect finger food for mingling.
3. Caprese Skewers
For a lighter option, caprese skewers are a festive way to incorporate fresh flavors into your Christmas spread. Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil onto skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze. The vibrant red, white, and green colors are perfect for the holiday season.
4. Brie and Cranberry Bites
These puff pastry bites filled with creamy brie and sweet cranberry sauce are the perfect combination of rich and tart flavors. The flaky pastry makes them light enough to serve before a big meal, while the brie adds a touch of indulgence. They’re easy to make and look stunning on any Christmas table.
5. Prawn Cocktail
An old-school favorite, prawn cocktail is making a comeback. This retro dish can be assembled in minutes and brings a refreshing, tangy flavor to your starter selection. Serve in individual glasses for a more elegant presentation, with a zesty Marie Rose sauce to complement the prawns.
6. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
For a quick and healthy starter, wrap tender asparagus spears in thin slices of prosciutto and roast them in the oven. The salty prosciutto crisps up nicely, while the asparagus adds a fresh, crunchy bite. It’s an easy, low-carb option that pairs perfectly with a festive dinner.
7. Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are a great make-ahead starter that you can customize with different fillings like spinach, cheese, bacon, or mushrooms. Bake them in a muffin tin for easy serving, and you’ll have a bite-sized, savory snack that’s perfect for guests to nibble on before the main course.
8. Deviled Eggs with a Twist
Deviled eggs are a staple for holiday gatherings, but give them a Christmas twist by adding unexpected toppings like smoked paprika, crispy bacon bits, or pickled jalapeños. The creamy filling paired with the surprise of added flavors will elevate this classic starter.
9. Cheese and Charcuterie Board
A cheese and charcuterie board is an effortless way to offer a variety of flavors and textures. Choose a mix of hard and soft cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, and nuts. It’s a self-serve option that allows your guests to graze at their leisure, leaving you free to focus on the main event.
10. Filo Pastry Parcels
Filo pastry parcels filled with goat cheese, spinach, and pine nuts are a light yet flavorful starter. The crisp, flaky pastry contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, and they can be baked in advance, freeing you up to focus on other parts of the meal.
11. Garlic and Herb Crostini
Crostini is one of the easiest starters to prepare and can be topped with a variety of spreads or toppings. For a simple yet festive option, spread garlic butter and herbs over toasted baguette slices and serve warm. They’re crispy, buttery, and irresistible.
12. Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Bruschetta is another easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing starter. Chop fresh tomatoes, mix with basil, garlic, and olive oil, and spoon the mixture onto toasted bread. It’s a light and refreshing bite that brings the vibrant colors and flavors of summer into the winter season.
13. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
For a sweet and salty treat, bacon-wrapped dates are an ideal choice. The dates are stuffed with almonds or cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon, creating a flavor-packed bite that’s both rich and satisfying. They’re easy to prepare and bake up quickly in the oven.
14. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A warm and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is a fantastic make-ahead option that your guests will love. Serve it with slices of crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and watch it disappear in minutes. The creamy dip is a hearty starter that sets the tone for a comforting Christmas meal.15. Cucumber and Cream Cheese Canapés
For a lighter starter, cucumber and cream cheese canapés are an easy and elegant option. Simply slice cucumbers, top with herbed cream cheese, and garnish with dill or smoked salmon. These bite-sized treats are refreshing and perfect for balancing out richer courses.
16. Mini Meatballs
Mini meatballs are a hearty appetizer that can be made in a variety of flavors, from classic Italian to spicy Moroccan. Serve them with toothpicks and a dipping sauce for an easy, crowd-friendly starter that’s sure to satisfy.
17. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
For a healthy, vegan-friendly option, roasted red pepper hummus is a colorful and flavorful dip that pairs well with vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. The smoky, sweet taste of the roasted peppers adds a festive touch to a classic dish.
18. Cranberry and Goat Cheese Crostini
Crostini topped with tangy goat cheese and sweet cranberry sauce is a perfect combination of flavors. The crunch of the bread contrasts with the creamy cheese, while the cranberry sauce adds a festive flair. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for a Christmas gathering.
19. Sausage Rolls
A British favorite, sausage rolls are easy to make and even easier to eat. Puff pastry is wrapped around seasoned sausage meat and baked until golden brown. They’re a great addition to any Christmas starter selection and can be served hot or cold.
20. Mini Crab Cakes
Mini crab cakes are a luxurious yet easy-to-make starter that adds a touch of sophistication to your Christmas dinner. Serve them with a tangy tartar sauce or lemon aioli for dipping, and watch your guests come back for more.