From my kitchen to yours.

Nothing makes me happier this time of year than having my nearest and dearest crowded around the kitchen enjoying a meal together. And with the hustle and bustle of the season, I’m always looking for quick and healthy snacks that are guaranteed to wow even the pickiest eaters.

I’d love to share some of my tried-and-true favorites to surprise your friends and family with at your next holiday gathering. Best of all, they’re a cinch to make!

My top 4 Holiday Hors D ‘Oeuvres:

Chunky Artichoke Dip

With just the right blend of creamy and savory, this dip goes well with veggie crudités, crackers or pita bread, but I especially love to serve it with my Spinach Flatbread!

Makes about 2 ½ cups, or 5 ½ cup servings

Ingredients

• 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 (7-ounce) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped ¼ cup seeded and diced red bell pepper
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Cayenne, to taste

Directions
In a medium bowl, stir together all ingredients; chill. Serve cold.

Spinach Flatbread

Makes 1 to 2 servings

Ingredients

• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg whites
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• ¼ cup chopped onions

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, stir together all ingredients. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the mixture evenly onto the pan. Bake for 15 minutes. Holding the ends of the parchment paper, pick up the flatbread and lay it on a cooling rack or towel. Cut into pieces and enjoy!

Cranberry Chutney

As the “cranberry queen,” no holiday menu is complete at my house without the appearance of my favorite ruby red fruit!

Makes 8 (1/3- cup) servings

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped fresh cranberries
• 1 cup peeled, chopped Granny Smith apples
• 1 Tablespoon honey
• 2 Tablespoons chopped prunes
• 2 Tablespoons chopped onions
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon five spice powder
• 1/3 cup apple-cranberry juice (100% juice, unsweetened)
• 3 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Directions
Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring frequently. Uncover and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until mixture is thickened.

Gluten-Free Stuffed Mushrooms

These mushrooms are absolutely delectable – and guilt-free too! I was so pleased to come across this recipe as a healthier alternative to the typical breadcrumb and cheese-stuffed variations. I hope you’ll enjoy them as much as I do!

Makes 24

Ingredients

• 24 large button mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
• ¼ cup white onion, minced
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• ½ cup cooked brown rice
• ½ cup cooked quinoa
• 2 carrots, grated and peeled
• ½ cup pine nuts, finely chopped
• 2 Tbsp. organic salsa
• 1 tsp. sea salt
• 2 chives, finely chopped

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray baking dish with nonstick baking spray. In a small skillet over medium heat, cook the onion in olive oil until soft and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add cooked brown rice, quinoa, carrots, pine nuts, salsa and sea salt. Cook until warm, about 3-4 minutes, and remove from heat. Using a spoon, transfer the mixture into each mushroom cap and place stuffed mushrooms in a single layer in the baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 15 minutes. Garnish with fresh chives. Serve warm.

Send your guests home with a special treat…

My Rise and Shine Oatmeal Mix turns a basic breakfast staple into something truly gift-worthy. It all lies in the presentation—I dress mine up in an old-fashioned mason jar with grosgrain ribbon and a craft paper tag for just the right personal touch!

Rise and Shine Oatmeal

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

• Steel-cut oats
• Cinnamon
• Ginger
• Nutmeg
• Walnuts
• Golden raisins
• Dried cranberries
• Medium-sized mason jar
• Ribbon, fabric, gift tag, cinnamon sticks

Directions
Mix the oats, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. Fill the jar ¾ full with the oat mixture. Add the dried fruit in a layer on top, and then add a layer of walnuts.

Happy Holidays and the warmest of wishes for a wonderful new year!