The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and of course, delicious food! If you’re hosting friends and family this season, you might be looking for 5 easy holiday recipes to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or need last-minute ideas, these recipes are guaranteed to wow your guests and keep the holiday spirit alive.

Healthy Recipes for the Holiday Season

1. Festive Caprese Skewers

Why It Impresses:

• Quick to assemble yet visually stunning.
• Combines fresh ingredients for a light and flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella balls
• Basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Skewer a cherry tomato, mozzarella ball, and basil leaf onto a toothpick.
2. Repeat until you’ve made enough skewers for your guests.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Pro Tip: Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for extra color and flair!

2. Garlic and Herb Roasted Chicken

Why It Impresses:

• A classic dish that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Perfect as a centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• Whole chicken
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley
• Garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs.
3. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and more herbs.
4. Roast for about 1.5 hours or until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Why It Impresses:

• A warm, comforting starter that’s easy to prepare.
• The vibrant orange hue adds a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients:

• Butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Vegetable broth
• Heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in a pot until fragrant.
2. Add squash and vegetable broth; simmer until squash is soft.
3. Blend the mixture until smooth, then stir in cream for extra richness.

4. Holiday Cranberry Brie Bites

Why It Impresses:

• Bite-sized treats that combine sweet and savory flavors.
• Perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.

Ingredients:

• Puff pastry sheets
• Brie cheese, cubed
• Cranberry sauce
• Fresh rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut puff pastry into small squares and place into a mini muffin tin.
3. Add a cube of Brie and a dollop of cranberry sauce to each.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

5. Chocolate Peppermint Bark

Why It Impresses:

• A festive dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
• Perfect for gifting or as a sweet end to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• Dark chocolate, melted
• White chocolate, melted
• Crushed candy canes

Instructions:

1. Spread melted dark chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Drizzle white chocolate on top and swirl with a toothpick for a marbled effect.
3. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the chocolate and let it set in the fridge.
4. Break into pieces and serve or package as gifts.

Conclusion: Impress Without the Stress

With these 5 easy holiday recipes to impress your guests, you can serve up delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. From savory starters to sweet treats, these recipes are simple, festive, and sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ready to wow your guests this holiday season? Try one—or all—of these recipes and let us know your favorite in the comments!

https://www.marthastewart.com/1040244/make-ahead-festive-side-dishes