Thanksgiving Appetizers & Cocktails

Get Thanksgiving appetizers to pair with cocktails for easy nibbling at your holiday party. These are great for pre-dinner snacking.

seasonal appetizers for fall, set up on counter.

When we host big meals for the holidays it’s always scheduled for later in the day. This is very different from how I grew up; those family gatherings always took place at around 1 or 2 pm. Then we would pick at the leftovers all evening long.

That works well if everyone is bringing a dish and you cook the turkey at 4am, but I’m usually doing it all because guests are from out of town, or have earlier plans. So we end up eating our big Thanksgiving dinner at around 6 or 7pm – a true “dinner.”

To tie us over for the day we usually have a late breakfast, and then set out a spread of tasty appetizers and cocktails. This way we stay satisfied through the afternoon but don’t get full before the main meal.

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

Helpful Tips

Set up the snacks on a side table so it’s not in the way of any meal prep that takes place in the kitchen. If you need to, bring in a folding table or card table for the extra surface.
A high counter top is a great place to set up. This way I can still cook in the kitchen without having my work surfaces occupied. I can also conveniently grab a nibble my self as I’m working in the kitchen.
The food consists of easy-to-serve things like fruits, cheese, nuts, olives, and dip. These can stay out for a few hours or can be replenished over time.

PARTY TIP: Use silver-toned serving pieces as they don’t have to match perfectly. Something new looks great right alongside a vintage piece. Silver pieces can be dressed up and formal, or can be paired with wood for a casual, rustic feel. And you can pair it with family heirlooms like my great grandmother’s platter..