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Easy, healthy appetizers, perfect for any occasion!
Got any fun plans for ringing in the New Year? We're looking forward to spending time with family from out-of-town. I've been looking through recipes, deciding what to serve and thought, with New Year's Eve on the horizon, I'd share a few of our favorite appetizers; all easy and decently healthy.
As much as I enjoyed all the delicious holiday food, I'm ready for some lighter leaner eating. Anyone with me?
Cranberry and Pomegranate Bruschetta - Everyone goes crazy over this bright, fresh, healthy appetizer. It makes a beautiful presentation; sure to bring ooohs and ahhhs. The topping makes a delightful bruschetta, but there are tons of other delicious ways to use it - check it out! This recipe feeds a crowd, so it's perfect for a gathering of family or friends.
Guacamole Hummus - a delightful combination of guacamole and hummus. Unlike guacamole, it keeps for days in the refrigerator without discoloring. You won't be able to keep it that long though, it's fabulous!
Farmer's Market Feta Bruschetta - a fresh, delicious appetizer that's always a hit and is super adaptable. Use whatever veggies you've got in the fridge! Substitute frozen corn in the cooler months when fresh is not in season. The bowl always comes back empty whenever I serve it.
Best Ever Super Easy Salsa - loaded with delicious vibrant flavor, this salsa comes together in less than 10 minutes. It's perfect to serve with chips, tacos or with other Mexican entrees, as a baked potato or omelet topping, soup garnish, etc. (To be honest, I sometimes eat it with a spoon, just by itself, but if you have to indulge, it might be the way to go - there's practically zero calories or fat in this stuff!)
Sweet and Spicy Maple Pecans  - everyone says these are the most deliciously addicting snack, salad topper or cocktail nibble ever! Make plenty, as they're quite irresistible!
Any of these appetizers would be a delicious way to celebrate the New Year. Oh, and speaking of the New Year, we'll be starting out 2016 with the same theme as today's post, Easy and Healthy (I've been creating some fun new recipes to share, with an emphasis on both).
That being said, I thought it would be fun to bid adieu to 2015 on Thursday with a little splurge, something to indulge your sweet tooth. I can't t resist sharing this one, as these Bakery Style Molasses Cookies may very well be my favorite recipe of the year! Warning, they're quite dangerous! Why dangerous? Well, it's because they're so delicious, it's ridiculous and so easy, it's even more ridiculous. The dough is stirred up in one bowl, one spoon, no mixer, probably could be done with your eyes closed, and in less than 10 minutes! See what I mean? That's "dangerous" in my book! Check back on Thursday for the recipe!
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I have really enjoyed all of your posts. Each has been presented beautifully and Scott's photography is amazing! Thanks to both of you for a delicious and inspirational 2015.
Wonderful, I bookmarked quite a few of these.
That's great Amy! Happy New Year!
Chris, I always enjoy your holiday appetizers round-up whether it's the Super Bowl, 4th of July or New Years Day. The Feta Bruschetta appeals to me and is something I will probably try when I finally settle down in California again this winter (in a few more days, to be exact). Always love your nuts. BTW, you have an ad for Cheryl's on your website. I sent 7 dozen frosted and decorated Christmas cookies to the employees at The Gant - they loved them - not as good as homemade ...but, almost. Happy New Year to you and Scott.
Thanks so much Mary! Have a beautiful New Year, and hope all has gone well with your transition to CA!
They all look great, Chris! Happy New Year to you and your family!!
Have a wonderful New Year Susan!
Dear Chris, what a wonderful array of colorful, delicious and healthy dishes and treats - they all seem to represent your cooking style in the most delightful of ways!
Wishing you and Scott and all of your wonderful family, a very Happy and Healthy New Year!
Andrea
Thanks Andrea! We hope the very same for you and yours in 2016!
Such a wonderful roundup Chris - I especially love those Cranberry and Pomegranate Bruschetta - and those decadent Molasses Cookies!
Happy New year to you and your loved ones!
And also to you, Shashi! We hope 2016 holds great joy for you and yours!
Happy New Year, Chris! I want those molasses cookies!!
They are about 20 minutes (cooking and baking) from your wish! Have a wondrous New Year!
Happy New Year, Chris! Everything looks delicious as always!
Thanks so much Sandra! Happy New Year to you and yours too!
There's no link to the Bakery Style Molassas Cookies. I looked through all you're cookie recipes and can't find it there either. I would really like to make them, they sound so delicious! Thank you! Mary Beth
Try it now Mary Beth, it should work. Also, if you refresh your search, you'll go right back to the cookies, which are the current featured recipe.
What a great collection of healthy appetizers! Feta bruschetta looks amazing - so colorful!
Thanks Melanie! Happy New year!
Love everything! Have a wonderful New Year's Chris 🙂
Thanks Jennifer! Happy New Year to you too!
These all look wonderful and the perfect way to bring in the New Year. Start the year off right and gain some momentum.
By the way, I love that I see you and Scott the second I land on your site. It always makes me smile. Wishing you both a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!
Vicki, that's so sweet! Thank you for all your wonderful comments these past year! Believe it or not, 2016 will mark our 5th year of The Café! Have a joyous New Year!
Very nice round-up covering all the delicious bases! Happy New Year to you and Scott. I hope 2016 is awesome!
Thanks Tricia! We wish you the same in 2016!
Happy New Year you two..and to yours..:)
Thanks Monique! You too!