The turkey is almost never ready on time so be sure to have some festive appetizers for everyone to nibble on. These impressive starters are all easy to make -- but no one needs to know that!
My husband calls these candied pecans "crack" nuts because they're madly addictive. They're perfect to serve with cocktails, toss over salads or just keep around the house over the holidays. They also make a delicious homemade gift. The best part? You only need four simple ingredients to make them -- and if you start right now, you'll be done in 15 minutes. GET THE RECIPE
These mini beef and pork meatballs in a light cream sauce are always a crowd-pleaser. Don't want to wait for the holiday? Go ahead and serve them over rice or noodles for dinner. GET THE RECIPE
These crisp and flaky cheese straws specked with fresh herbs and crushed red chili flakes make a wonderful hors d'oeuvre to go along with wine and cocktails, and they're also delicious with a bowl of soup. They are wildly addictive, and just plain fun to serve. GET THE RECIPE
This creamy blend of cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic, scallions and fresh herbs comes from the acclaimed L'Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls, VA. Served with garlic bread, it's the perfect beginning to a special meal. GET THE RECIPE
Slightly sweet, salty and spiced with an exotic blend of cinnamon, cumin and paprika, this stuff is downright habit-forming. The recipe is adapted from Nigella Express by Nigella Lawson. GET THE RECIPE
This warm and creamy Brie topped with honey, dried cherries and nuts encased in golden puff pastry is elegant and easy. The secret is store-bought puff pastry. GET THE RECIPE