Skip to content

7 Healthy Thanksgiving Appetizers Everyone Will Love

By Jess Novak
|
November 17, 2023
Image credit: Kim's Cravings

Whether Thanksgiving is set for 1 p.m. or 7 p.m., the hours of cooking and prepping can leave everyone feeling a little hangry by midday – especially if you’re skipping breakfast. Setting out some light and healthy appetizers is the perfect way to keep hunger at bay without spoiling the main event.

That’s why we rounded up an assortment of dips, avocado-based snacks, and even healthier deviled eggs — there’s something for everyone on this list, from vegan to Paleo-friendly folks. For more absolutely delicious hors d’oeuvres, try our collection of quick, easy appetizers for last-minute get-togethers.

Related: Sign up to receive delicious recipes, expert advice, and shopping tips in your inbox!

1. Mexican-Inspired Street Corn Dip

Mexican-Inspired Street Corn Dip

Corn is a classic Thanksgiving side, but for most of the country, it’s not exactly in season by the time Thanksgiving rolls around. One way around this: opt for an appetizer that uses frozen corn, like this healthy, Mexican-inspired dip. This recipe replaces the traditional street corn’s mayo with Greek yogurt, and swaps Cotija cheese for low-fat feta (although we’d consider opting for old-school Cotija unless you’re on a specifically low-fat diet). We’d serve this healthy Thanksgiving appetizer with sliced red, orange, and yellow bell peppers and tortilla chips.

Try the recipe from The Cookie Rookie.

2. Crispy Oven-Baked Green Bean Fries

Healthy thanksgiving appetizers: crispy green bean oven fries

These hot green bean fries will tide everyone over without filling them up, which makes them the perfect Thanksgiving app. This recipe would also be excellent made in an air fryer if your oven is rather occupied on Thanksgiving day. They’re delicious served on their own, but would be great with a little mustard dipping sauce or our special probiotic ranch dressing.

Try the recipe from I Heart Vegetables.

3. Cajun Shrimp Sweet Potato Bites

Cajun shrimp guacamole bites

Sweet potato rounds make an excellent bread substitute. If you’re in charge of bringing an app to Thanksgiving this year, consider these healthy sweet potato bites topped with guacamole and Cajun-seasoned shrimp. While this recipe calls for a homemade spice blend, we won’t judge if you reach for the Tony Chachere’s.

Try the recipe from Joyful Healthy Eats.

4. Plant-Based Cranberry Dip

Healthy Thanksgiving Appetizers: Plant-Based Cranberry Dip

Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, this cranberry dip is surprisingly creamy and absolutely delicious, which probably has something to do with all of the cashews. If you’ve never tried using cashews as a dip base before, you are going to be amazed at how rich it is. We like to serve this with apple and pear slices.

Try the recipe from Dwell by Michelle.

5. Marinated Manchego Tapas

Marinated Manchego Tapas

This dish is so easy: You simply put the cheese in a jar of oil with some herbs, which can be done up to three days in advance, and then serve. These Manchego bites can be enjoyed on their own (just offer guests some little forks or toothpicks) or as part of a whole platter. The recipe suggests pairing with Spanish spiced almonds, which would definitely be delicious.

Try the recipe from Just A Little Bit of Bacon.

6. Pumpkin Hummus

Healthy Thanksgiving Appetizers: Pumpkin Hummus

If you’re going to someone else’s home for Thanksgiving, they’ll be so appreciative if you bring a healthy Thanksgiving appetizer that doesn’t require any prep in the kitchen, and this seasonal pumpkin hummus is a great choice. Just bring some chopped crudités to go with it — like carrot sticks, sliced English cucumber, and raw cauliflower — plus a handful of whole-grain crackers, too.

Try the recipe from Kim’s Cravings.

7. Avocado Deviled Eggs

Keto Avocado Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a must-have Thanksgiving appetizer in many households, and this recipe offers a delicious and healthy twist. By swapping in Greek yogurt and avocado for mayonnaise, you’re adding protein and healthy fats—no flavor sacrificed. It’s a tasty, satisfying choice whether your guests are keto fans or just egg lovers.

Try the recipe from Healthy Fitness Meals.

Read next: 10 Healthy Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes (That Aren’t Casseroles)

Good food
brings
people together.
So do
good emails.

What our editors love right now

Good food brings people together.
So do good emails.