Although the holiday season is frequently laden with sweet and rich indulgences, it doesn’t mean we can't find snacks and sides that are light, healthy, or uncomplicated.
On this post today, I'm sharing 3 interesting recipes that I found on other blogs that I thought were perfect for entertaining now and during the holidays.
I had a dinner party last night with 15 guests. I tried two different recipes that I found on Pattie's blog ( A blog that I follow) called Olla-Podrida. Both recipes were well received.
Cannellini Bean Dip with Black Olive (vegan) calls for just a handful of healthy ingredients. The dip is savory and creamy with the delicious taste of olives. It's perfect for scooping with crisp veggies or your favorite chips or crackers (all gluten-free of course). It's an easy recipe to keep on hand. Follow the link to find her recipe. Cannellini Bean Dip with Black Olive
Next, an interesting Artichoke Salad with Hearts of Palm features hearts of palm, marinated artichokes, a variety of olives, and cherry tomatoes- a delightful mix of textures and delicious flavors. Light, refreshing, and festive, it’s perfect for balancing out all those rich holiday meals. Follow the link to see her recipe. I did make some personal taste changes. See my notes at the bottom of the post for my personal changes.Artichoke Salad with Hearts of Palm
The third recipe I found on another blog that I follow, Jeff the Chef's blog - Make it Like a Man. I have not made this incredible looking food design recipe yet, so I don't have a photo to share with you - but click over to his blog to see this beautiful Caprese holiday wreath made of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, (vegans can substitute vegan feta cheese) and edible greens. So creative, and definitely is cheerful, festive, and makes a great presentation during the holidays. I think it's a show stopper!!
They all sound wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI love bean dip, and artichoke hearts are a favourite too. We don't get hearts of palm here sadly :)
ReplyDeleteYes really a shame - hearts of palm are so deliicious
DeleteYum, thanks!
ReplyDeleteSince we don’t celebrate these are things we never have to worry about, thank goodness! I was talking to my neighbour yesterday and she seemed more stressed than happy. All the best - David
ReplyDeleteYes, holidays can be stressful as well as warm and wonderful.
DeleteThese all sound wonderful. I thought Jeff's wreath and Christmas tree cheeseball are just adorable and sound delicious.
ReplyDeleteYes, I was smitten when I saw the wreath.
DeletePattie has great recipes and such beautiful table sets!
ReplyDeleteThese look so good! I'm all about making the holidays a little easier when it comes to eating healthy. I am definitely adding the artichoke salad to my menu this year! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome.
DeleteI’m glad you got the opportunity to try these recipes. I like the idea of using some of the artichoke marinade in place of the dressing. I’m going to keep that in mind for next time. It’s interesting that you eliminated the oil from the cannellini bean dip. I have forgotten it in the past and it turned out fine. I’ve also forgotten the lemon juice in the past, and it came out well. I don’t think there’s any way you can go wrong.
ReplyDeleteThe recipes were a hit and enjoyed by all.
DeleteI was just thinking. I wonder how it would be to use the marinade from the artichoke hearts as a replacement for the oil in the cannellini bean dip. I may just try that.
ReplyDeleteYes, the marinade is delicious and perfect as the dressing.
DeleteJudee, your table looks beautiful! And I love that you served recipes from a fellow blogger. As soon as I saw that, I thought, I know her! 💖💖💖
ReplyDeleteThanks- the table setting is actually from a friends house at a Christmas dinner we were invited to.
DeleteI love Olla Podrida, Pattie has great recipes! The Caprese wreath is beautiful, such a festive Christmas appetizer!
ReplyDeleteJenna
Agree!
DeleteMany thanks Judee.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your December days.
All the best Jan
https://thelowcarbdiabetic.blogspot.com/
The dip and the salad both sound wonderful! Thank you for sharing these recipes. Your table looks amazing.
ReplyDeleteThe artichoke salad looks really good. I love artichokes. I met someone one time and they told me they had never eaten an artichoke before. I was surprised, as they are one of my favorites. My daughter had made the caprese salad before. It's very good. You have set a lovely table with red.
ReplyDelete~Sheri