Thanksgiving is hands-down my favorite holiday of the year.

This is where appetizers can come in handy.

First off, they should be relatively light.

3-ingredient blue cheese & fig bites

Jamie Vespa, M.S., R.D.

I don’t want the snacks meant for grazing to ruin people’s appetites for the main event.

Lastly, they should be packed with flavor, so a few little bites go a long way.

For more beginner- and budget-friendly cooking tips, check outThrifty.

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Jamie Vespa, M.S., R.D.

The optional minced chives add a nice pop of color, but these are just as tasty without herbs.

Keep the ingredients on hand and you’re able to whip these up for impromptu holiday cocktail parties.

This combination tastes downright decadent, but it’s actually good for you.

Stuffed mushrooms

Serve with an array of crudites and crisp party crackers.

3-Ingredient Cranberry-Brie Bites

Baked Brie is a perennially popular appetizer.

Simply layer each ingredient on top of the other and secure with a toothpick for an easy bite-size starter.

Pear-Pecan Cheese Ball

Pomegranate, Cranberry & Brie Bruschetta

Make this simple festive appetizer for your holiday guests.

Add slices of apple for extra crunch, if you’d like, or keep these bites simple.

Either way, consider making a double batch–they’ll go quickly.

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Winter Charcuterie Board

A cheeseboard is an ideal stationary hors d’oeuvre for holiday entertaining.

We even included some dark chocolate to cap it off!

Apricot, Prosciutto & Parmesan Bites

Jamie Vespa, M.S., R.D.

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Smashed Artichokes with Aioli

Photography / Caitlin Bensel, Food Styling / Emily Nabors Hall

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3-Ingredient Cheddar & Apple Bites

Winter Charcuterie Board