Get the party started this holiday season with some easy-to-make finger foods! These kid-approved appetizers are sure to have your family and friends of all ages coming back for more. So grab your little chefs and get to cooking!
1. Broccoli Nuggets – We’re under the assumption everyone loves nuggets, right? That’s what we thought! But what if we could make this easy to grab, kid-friendly finger food into something a little more nutritious? This recipe includes broccoli, which is rich in vitamin K (important for blood clotting), vitamin C (which boosts our immune system), and fiber (for improved blood sugar regulation and sustained energy)! These little nuggets aren’t only healthy, they’re super yummy and easy to make, too.
2. Caramel Grapes – When we think of fall treats, our minds often go to candy apples. And while we love those decadent apples just as much as the next guy, they can be a little tricky to make. That’s where these caramel grapes come in handy! Just like their larger cousins, the caramel covered apple, these bite sized desserts are delicious. Not to mention, grapes provide lots of vitamin K, C and fiber, too.
3. Whole Wheat Bagel Snowman – This recipe can be used as an appetizer at a holiday party or as a simple breakfast. Whole wheat grains offer a substantial amount of folate, a vitamin that’s needed for red blood cell formation and healthy cell growth. Copper is a mineral found in whole grains, which keeps our blood vessels, nerves, immune system, and bones healthy. Copper also aids in iron absorption.
4. Veggie Dip Shooters – It’s like a salad on the go! Because these veggies are so portable, they’re perfect for holiday parties. Veggies offer tons of different vitamins and minerals that are essential for our health. This easy-to-assemble finger food makes fresh cut veggies even more appetizing to guests because it includes dip (everyones favorite!). Feel free to get creative with which dip you use: hummus, yogurt based ranch dressing, and tahini sauce all make great options!
5. Party Poppers – Bell peppers are the star of this finger food recipe! And for good reason: they’re rich in vitamin C, vitamin A (crucial for vision and eye health), and vitamin B6 (needed for protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism as well as the creation of red blood cells). Stuffed with cream cheese, bacon, and jalapeños, these are sure to be a crowd pleaser!
6. PB&J Tea Sandwiches – You’ve likely already mastered this recipe without even knowing it. The only difference between the traditional pb&j and these adorable little tea sandwiches is a few extra steps in order to make them the perfect finger food for party guests. Peanut butter provides a great source of heart healthy fats, protein (which helps build and repair muscle tissue), and fiber! So while your guests are enjoying this delicious treat, they’re also fueling their bodies with the good stuff.
7. Chia Banana Bread Bites – While these energy bites are extra nutritious in a number of ways, the spotlight seems to really be on the fiber, protein, and heart healthy fats. With so many health promoting ingredients like chia seeds, nuts, nut butter, oats, and bananas, it’s hard to just pick a few to talk about. So just take our word for it… this recipe will become a year-around favorite snack in your household!
8. Pumpkin Zucchini Muffins – Made by one of our very own little cooks, these muffins incorporate seasonal favorites, like pumpkin, ginger and maple syrup. Pumpkin and zucchini both provide tons of vitamin A. This recipe uses lots of different spices, too, which might possibly help fight inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, and boost immune function.
9. Mini Vegetable Pie – Another yummy and nutritious recipe from one of our little cooks, these Mini Vegetable Pies are a fun finger food for all ages. This particular recipe is free of many common allergens, making it accessible for lots of little cooks out there!
10. Sweet Potato & Chive Chips – Who doesn’t enjoy the salty crunch of a potato chip? These Sweet Potato & Chive Chips contain lots of vitamin A and fiber, while the traditional potato chip does not! This recipe involves sharp cooking tools, so make sure there’s an adult nearby to help. When you’re finished with this recipe, simply toss them into a serving bowl and watch them disappear in minutes!
We hope a few of these finger food recipes have caught your eye! With so many delicious options, we’re sure it’ll be tough for you to choose just one dish to try. Show us your yummy creations by snapping a pic and tagging us on Facebook. Happy Holidays!
