Make sure to PIN IT!

For more ideas, visit:

20 Healthy Snacks for New Year’s Eve

Healthy Family New Year’s Resolutions

Episode 17: New Year’s Resolutions for Families

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]]> https://healthyfamilyproject.com/28-healthy-recipes-to-start-the-new-year/feed/ 0 Sweet and Savory Snack Board https://healthyfamilyproject.com/sweet-savory-snack-board/ https://healthyfamilyproject.com/sweet-savory-snack-board/#respond Wed, 25 Dec 2024 22:49:30 +0000 https://healthyfamilyproject.com/?p=44347

Get ready for the NYE countdown! Ring in the New Year with a Sweet & Savory snack board that’s as easy as festive!

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Get ready for the NYE countdown! Ring in the New Year with a Sweet & Savory snack board that’s as easy as festive!

Sweet and savory snack board with New Year's decorations, including raspberries, strawberries, and nuts.

Ah, New Year’s Eve. The night when you want everything to feel just a little fancy, but let’s be honest—you’re probably running on fumes after all the holiday hustle. You’ve made it through the parties, the cookies, the wrapping marathons, and now? You just want something delicious, easy, and crowd-pleasing to snack on as you countdown to midnight.

This gorgeous snack board checks all the boxes. It’s:

  • Easy to assemble (no kitchen meltdowns here).
  • A little sweet, a little savory (so everyone’s happy).
  • Nutritious and indulgent (because balance, right?).
  • Instagram-worthy (you know you’ll want to snap a pic!).

The Snack Struggle Is Real

Sweet and Savory Snack Board with New Year's decorations.

Let’s be honest—most New Year’s Eve spreads go one of two ways. It’s either chips and dips galore (hello, salty overload!) or candy and desserts that leave everyone feeling like they’ve officially hit their sugar quota for the year. Why not mix it up? The key to a great NYE board is balance—a little sweet, a little salty, a lot of fun.

Plus, this board is a great way to sneak in fresh fruit and a little protein, keeping everyone happy without the sugar crash.

Snack Board Ingredients:

Here’s your no-fuss shopping list:

  • Raspberries – Bright, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
  • Pineberries – If you haven’t tried these yet, NYE is the perfect excuse. They look like pale strawberries and taste subtly tropical.
  • Walnuts – For a crunchy, protein-packed bite.
  • Pomegranate Seeds – Gorgeous little jewels that add a pop of sweet-tart flavor (and major antioxidant power).
  • Chocolate Drizzled Popcorn – Sweet, salty, and totally addictive.
  • Cheddar Cheese Stars – Cut cheddar into cute star shapes for an extra festive touch (kids love these!).
  • Dragon Fruit – With its vibrant pink skin and speckled interior, it’s the showstopper of the board.
  • Yogurt-Covered Pretzels – A sweet twist on a classic snack.
  • Your Favorite Crackers – Anything goes, but something sturdy enough for cheese is key.
New Year's snack board with cheese, strawberries, raspberries, dragon fruit, and pretzels.

How to Assemble the Snack Board:

  1. Start with a big platter or wooden board as your base.
  2. Place your showstoppers first: dragon fruit slices and cheddar cheese stars. Think of these as your centerpiece.
  3. Add small bowls for raspberries, pomegranate seeds, and walnuts to keep them tidy.
  4. Fill in the gaps with yogurt-covered pretzels, crackers, and chocolate-drizzled popcorn.
  5. Scatter pineberries and a few extra raspberries for color and balance.
  6. Stand back and admire your masterpiece. (Seriously—it’s that pretty.)
Sweet strawberries, raspberries, dragon fruit, and pretzels on a board.

This board solves the age-old New Year’s Eve snack dilemma. The fresh fruit provides natural sweetness and nutrition, the walnuts add protein and crunch, and the indulgent elements like chocolate popcorn and yogurt pretzels feel like a treat. It’s festive without being over-the-top, and there’s truly something for everyone.

Bonus: It’s kid-approved AND adult-friendly. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a quiet family night, or need something to bring to the party, this board will disappear fast (in the best way).

A Tip for 2025 Goals

If you’re like us, you’re always looking for ways to add a little more color and nutrition to the table. This board is a great way to end the year on a high note and sneak in some good-for-you foods before the clock strikes midnight.

Cheers to Easy, Fun, and Fresh Celebrations!

Sweet board with New Year's decorations.

So there you have it. A sweet and savory snack board that’s as easy as it is beautiful. Grab your favorite drink, pile your plate high, and toast to the new year—because you deserve a celebration that’s stress-free, delicious, and oh-so-festive.

Happy New Year from all of us at Healthy Family Project!

Cheers to a bright (and balanced) 2025!

Get more New Year’s ideas for your celebration, like drinks, recipes, and delicious snacks.

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Festive & Family-Friendly Holiday Mocktails https://healthyfamilyproject.com/holiday-mocktails/ https://healthyfamilyproject.com/holiday-mocktails/#respond Mon, 23 Dec 2024 18:19:23 +0000 https://healthyfamilyproject.com/?p=44308

Holiday mocktails easy to make, stunning to serve, and perfect for holiday gatherings—from cozy family nights to a big New Year’s Eve toast.

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Four mocktails that combine seasonal flavors, vibrant colors, and just the right sparkle to make your holiday celebrations shine. No need for anyone to miss out on the fun! Let’s get sipping!

Apple cider mocktail drink with apples, and cinnamon

The holidays are here, and you’ve got the decorations up, the playlist ready to set the mood, and a spread of delicious food that’s worthy of any celebration. But what about the drinks? We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for something festive, flavorful, and inclusive for everyone at your table. These mocktails are easy to make, stunning to serve, and perfect for holiday gatherings—from cozy family nights to a big New Year’s Eve toast.

Best Holiday Mocktails Everyone Will Love

The holidays are here, and you’ve got the lights up, your favorite holiday playlist on repeat, and snacks that could win an award. But the drinks? If you’re still offering water, soda, or juice boxes, it’s time to level up.

Whether you’re hosting a family movie night, throwing a holiday bash, or just looking for something a little extra, these festive mocktails will add serious cheer to your celebrations—no stress—just fun, flavorful sips that everyone at the table can enjoy.

Let’s talk about drinks!

Instant Pot Apple Cider

You know that warm, spiced apple-y smell that instantly makes your house feel festive? This is that in a mug. It’s cozy, naturally sweet, and makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket—without any effort thanks to the Instant Pot.

Perfect for: Fireside chats, snow day snuggles, or a family movie marathon.

What You Need:

  • 8 apples, quartered
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • Whipped cream & a sprinkle of cinnamon 

How to Make It:

  1. Toss the apples, water, and cinnamon sticks in the Instant Pot. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
  2. Let it sit for another 15 minutes, then quick-release the pressure.
  3. Strain the apples through a sieve, mash gently, and serve warm. Top with whipped cream and cinnamon for bonus points.

It’s sweet, it’s cozy, and your house will smell like a holiday wonderland. Plus, everyone—kids, adults, grandma—loves it

Pomegranate Citrus Mocktail

This one looks fancy. It’s fizzy, bright, and packs a punch of flavor, with fresh garnishes that make it feel like a celebration in a glass.

Perfect for: Holiday brunches, dinner parties, or ringing in the New Year with style.

What You Need:

  • 2 oz. pomegranate juice
  • 1 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz. sparkling water
  • Ice, pomegranate arils, lime & orange slices, cranberries, fresh mint, and rosemary

How to Make It:

  1. Fill a glass halfway with ice. Add the pomegranate juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir it up.
  2. Top it off with sparkling water for that celebratory fizz.
  3. Go wild with the garnish—pomegranate arils, citrus slices, and a sprig of mint or rosemary.

It’s gorgeous, refreshing, and feels special. You’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate with Raspberry Mint Drizzle

This isn’t just hot chocolate; this is next-level hot chocolate. It’s creamy, decadent, and topped with a raspberry-mint drizzle that makes it taste (and look) like a treat from your favorite café. Best part? The slow cooker does the work.

Perfect for: Holiday parties, lazy Sunday mornings, or treating yourself after a day of shopping.

What You Need:

  • 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 4-8 cups water (depending on how rich you like it)
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, mashed
  • 3 Tbsp. water for the drizzle
  • 5-10 fresh mint leaves

How to Make It:

  1. Add the condensed milk, chocolate chips, and 4 cups of hot water to your slow cooker. Whisk it every 15 minutes for about 55 minutes. Adjust with more water if it’s too rich.
  2. While that’s simmering, heat the raspberries, mint, and water on the stove until it turns into a sauce. Strain out the seeds and set aside.
  3. Serve the hot chocolate in mugs, drizzle the raspberry-mint sauce on top, and drop in a few fresh raspberries.

It’s rich, it’s cozy, and it looks super fancy with minimal effort. Plus, who doesn’t love hot chocolate.

Ginger Lemon Mocktail

Light, fizzy, and full of zesty flavor, this one is perfect when you want something not too sweet but still festive. The ginger gives it a little kick, and the lemon keeps it bright and refreshing.

Perfect for: Dinner parties, New Year’s Eve toasts, or as a light sip between courses.

What You Need:

  • 2 oz. Ginger Lemon Kombucha
  • 1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz. sparkling water
  • Splash of simple syrup (optional)
  • Lemon slices for garnish

How to Make It:

  1. Combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, and kombucha in a glass.
  2. Top with sparkling water for that perfect fizz.
  3. Garnish with a fresh lemon slice to keep things fancy.

It’s light, refreshing, and has a little zing from the ginger—great for balancing out all the rich holiday food.

These Mocktails Are Holiday MVPs

Here’s the deal: the holidays are for everyone. These mocktails aren’t just pretty—they’re family-friendly, easy to make, and flavorful.

  • Need something cozy? Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate have you covered.
  • Want to add a little sparkle? Pomegranate Citrus and Ginger Lemon are here for you.

These holiday mocktails are perfect to accompany delicious crostini recipes or savory boards. So grab your favorite glass, add some festive garnishes, and raise a toast to a holiday season full of flavor, fun, and all the little moments that matter.
Cheers to you!

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Cozy Cheese Fondue Night This New Year’s Eve https://healthyfamilyproject.com/cheese-fondue-new-years/ https://healthyfamilyproject.com/cheese-fondue-new-years/#respond Mon, 23 Dec 2024 17:03:07 +0000 https://healthyfamilyproject.com/?p=44284

Cheese Fondue for New Year's Eve Delicious cozy cheese fondue board that brings everyone together around the table is an excellent idea for a New Year's celebration.

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This year, let’s make it fun, festive, and downright delicious with a cozy cheese fondue party that brings everyone together around the table.

Cheese Fondue New Years charcuterie board

New Year’s Eve can be a lot. Restaurants are packed to the brim, menus are overpriced, and you’re lucky if you don’t spend half the night waiting for a table. If you’re anything like me, you might be thinking… maybe staying in is the way to go this year.

And here’s the good news: staying in doesn’t have to feel boring or last-minute.

It’s totally easy—because we’re using a pre-made queso to keep things stress-free. So grab your favorite people, your favorite snacks, and let’s make this New Year’s Eve one to remember (without even leaving the house).

Cheese Fondue Night is Perfect for NYE

Cheese Fondue Charcuterie board

There’s something about fondue that feels special, like a little celebration all on its own. It’s interactive, it’s warm and cozy, and it keeps everyone hanging out together while dipping their favorite foods into melty, cheesy goodness.

But here’s the real win: it’s so simple. By using a traditional premade queso, you skip the fuss of melting cheeses, fiddling with cornstarch, and worrying about lumps. Just heat, pour, and dip away.

Staying in suddenly feels like the best idea of the year.

The Easiest Cheese Fondue (With a Premade Shortcut!)

Instead of starting from scratch, we’re keeping it super simple with a traditional queso. You can find great options in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, and they melt beautifully for fondue.

Charcuterie board with vegetables, fruits, and a savory combination

How to Set It Up:

  1. Heat the queso in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm and creamy.
  2. Transfer it to a fondue pot or small slow cooker to keep it warm and melty. No fancy equipment? No problem—just reheat on the stove as needed.
  3. Boom. Fondue is served!

Cheese fondue is rich and indulgent, so let’s pair it with dippers that feel hearty, balanced, and just plain delicious. Here’s what to serve alongside that melty queso.

Variations

Protein-Packed Favorites:

  • Chicken sausage (grilled or pan-seared for extra flavor)
  • Turkey sausage (lean and satisfying)

Roasted Veggies:

  • Mushrooms (roasted for that earthy bite)
  • Butternut squash (soft, sweet, and caramelized)
  • Baby potatoes (crispy or boiled—perfect for cheese dunking)

Fresh & Crisp:

  • Apple slices (sweet, tangy, and an unexpected hit with queso)
  • Cherry tomatoes (bursting with flavor)
  • Broccoli florets (roasted or steamed for a perfect balance)

A Fun Twist:

  • Grapes (yes, grapes! They’re surprisingly amazing with cheese fondue.)

Set the Scene for Your Cozy Fondue Night

Fondue isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. Here’s how to pull it all together:

  1. Set the Table:
    Lay out a big platter with all your dippers arranged nicely (because we’re fancy like that). Add little bowls for extras like grapes or apple slices.
  2. Keep It Warm:
    If you don’t have a fondue pot, a small slow cooker or saucepan works perfectly. Just keep the queso warm over low heat.
  3. Make It Festive:
    Light a few candles, put on a fun New Year’s Eve playlist, and maybe even add some string lights or sparkly decor for that celebratory vibe.

Add Drinks:
Sparkling cider, champagne, or even a fun mocktail pairs perfectly with this spread.

Fondue Night is the Best of Both Worlds

Look, New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be over-the-top to feel special. A cheese fondue night gives you the best of both worlds:

  • It’s easy and stress-free (thanks to that premade queso).
  • It feels festive and fun.
  • It’s balanced, with protein-packed and veggie-forward dippers that make the whole spread feel hearty without being heavy.

Plus, staying in means you get to celebrate at your own pace. No rushing, no waiting, no stress—just good food, good company, and a cozy night to remember.

Charcuterie board and a Fondue centerpiece for New Years 2025

Cheers to a Delicious Start to the New Year

So this year, skip the crowds, stay in, and host a cheese fondue night that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or just your closest crew, this cozy, interactive meal brings everyone together in the best way possible.

Grab the queso, gather your favorite dippers, and toast to the year ahead—full, happy, and surrounded by the people who matter most.

Happy New Year—and happy dipping!

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Holiday Season Crostini Recipes https://healthyfamilyproject.com/crostinis/ https://healthyfamilyproject.com/crostinis/#respond Tue, 17 Dec 2024 21:28:55 +0000 https://healthyfamilyproject.com/?p=44186

The Holidays are wonderful and wild… Whether you’re hosting, bringing a dish to the party, or need a quick appetizer before the main meal, these crostini recipes are your secret weapon to look put together without losing your sanity. Let’s be honest: the holidays are magical, but they’re also messy. Between decorating, shopping, work deadlines, […]

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The Holidays are wonderful and wild… Whether you’re hosting, bringing a dish to the party, or need a quick appetizer before the main meal, these crostini recipes are your secret weapon to look put together without losing your sanity.

Let’s be honest: the holidays are magical, but they’re also messy. Between decorating, shopping, work deadlines, and last-minute gift wrapping (hello, 11 p.m. Amazon orders), time feels like a luxury you just don’t have.

Throw hosting or attending a potluck into the mix, and you might be tempted to show up with a sad veggie tray from the grocery store. We’ve all been there. But here’s the thing: Simple doesn’t mean boring. Three ingredients. That’s all it takes!

Crostinis in 10 Minutes (Yes, Really!)

When you’re that busy—juggling errands, prepping gifts, and rushing out the door for yet another holiday event—cooking often feels like just one more thing on the never-ending to-do list. These 3-ingredient crostini are proof that:
-You don’t need 15 ingredients to make something amazing.
-You can be festive without spending hours in the kitchen.
-You deserve a stress-free win during the chaos.

Let’s jump into details and dive into tasty toppings that can accompany these crunchy crostini…

Goat Cheese & Pomegranate Crostini

The perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and bright with a festive pop of red. Holiday chic, done in minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf crusty French bread
  • 4 oz. honey goat cheese
  • 1 ½ cups POM Wonderful® Pomegranate Arils

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Slice French bread into ½-inch rounds and arrange on a baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
  4. Spread goat cheese on each slice.
  5. Top with pomegranate arils and serve immediately.

Mushrooms on Ricotta Crostini

Rich and savory, with a deep flavor that feels fancy but takes zero fuss. Prep ahead, serve in minutes, and watch them disappear.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices rustic bread, toasted
  • ½ cup fresh ricotta cheese
  • 8 oz oyster mushrooms, sautéed in butter

Directions:

  1. Toast the bread slices until golden and crisp.
  2. Sauté oyster mushrooms in butter over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Spread ricotta cheese on each slice of bread.
  4. Top with sautéed mushrooms and drizzle with a little browned butter, if desired.

Guacamole Sweet Potato Rounds

A gluten-free alternative that’s fresh, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. Healthy, vibrant, and perfect for a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes (cut into ¼” rounds)
  • 2 avocados, mashed (guacamole style)
  • ⅓ cup pomegranate seeds

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Place sweet potato rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly coat with oil, and sprinkle with salt.
  3. Roast for about 20 minutes until slightly golden and fork-tender.
  4. Top each round with mashed guacamole.
  5. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and serve.

Excited about this recipe?… Watch the prep process in our “Sweetpotato Guacamole Rounds” video!

Because You’re Already Doing Enough

You don’t need complicated recipes this season. You’re already balancing schedules, crossing off endless to-do lists, and making the holidays feel special. These simple, delicious crostini are a little gift to yourself—a “here, take something off your plate” moment of peace.

So toast that bread, sprinkle on the toppings, and pat yourself on the back. You’ve got this! Here’s to keeping it simple, festive, and stress-free this season.

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Creative Ways to Use Guacamole for the Holidays https://healthyfamilyproject.com/guacamole-holidays-ideas/ https://healthyfamilyproject.com/guacamole-holidays-ideas/#respond Thu, 12 Dec 2024 22:52:16 +0000 https://healthyfamilyproject.com/?p=44148

This year, it’s time to step up your holiday snack game and add a splash of creativity to your spread. Whether hosting a Secret Santa party, heading to a Christmas potluck, or joining the annual office holiday bash, these guacamole-inspired ideas will wow your guests and get everyone talking. The holiday season is in full […]

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This year, it’s time to step up your holiday snack game and add a splash of creativity to your spread. Whether hosting a Secret Santa party, heading to a Christmas potluck, or joining the annual office holiday bash, these guacamole-inspired ideas will wow your guests and get everyone talking.

The holiday season is in full swing, bringing with it a whirlwind of parties, family gatherings, and festive potlucks. Yet, let’s be honest—the appetizer table often feels a little… predictable. You’ll find the usual lineup: a bowl of chips and dip, a cheese platter, and maybe a cracker tray for good measure. But what if you could transform a crowd-pleaser like guacamole into something festive, fun, and totally unforgettable?

Ideas to Give Guacamole a Holiday Twist

Here are three ideas for making guacamole the “holiday host” and spreading cheer at your next gathering. They’re easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and festive enough to transform the appetizer table into the highlight of the evening.

Grinch Guacamole

Grinch-inspired guacamole display with Christmas decorations.

Everyone loves a good-themed dish, and what’s better than a Grinch-inspired snack to pair with holiday movies or kids’ parties? This fun and vibrant take on guacamole is both adorable and delicious.

  1. Prepare your favorite guacamole or grab a pre-made option.
  2. Spread the guacamole onto a serving plate in a circle.
  3. Use black olives for the Grinch’s eyes, adding small slices for detail.
  4. Cut a red bell pepper into a curved shape to form his mischievous smile.
  5. Add a little shredded cheese for texture if desired.

It’s interactive and fun and brings a bit of holiday magic to a dip that’s already loved by everyone. Perfect for kids and grown-ups alike!

Holiday Guacamole Wreath

Guacamole Wreath with corn chips on the side

 A guacamole wreath is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday spread. It looks elegant and seasonal, and it’s incredibly easy to assemble. Ready to make it? Let’s get started!

Ingredients – Guacamole Wreath

  1. Prepare your favorite guacamole or grab a pre-made option.
  2. Cherry tomatoes (halved)
  3. ½ cup fresh cilantro
  4. Pita chips, veggie sticks, or crackers

Instructions

  1. Place a small bowl in the center of a large serving platter to form a mold.
  2. Spread guacamole around the bowl in a thick circular shape, forming the “wreath.”
  3. Carefully remove the small bowl to leave a clean circle in the middle.
  4. Decorate the wreath with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro sprigs to mimic ornaments and greenery.
  5. Serve with pita chips, veggie sticks, or crackers.

This festive wreath turns guacamole into a stunning centerpiece, giving guests a reason to “ooh” and “ahh” as they grab a chip.

Holiday Tree Mini Pizzas

Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas with Guacamole Topping

If you’re looking for an appetizer that feels a little heartier, these guacamole-topped mini pizzas are the answer. They’re bite-sized, festive, and a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas

  1. Prepare your favorite guacamole or grab a pre-made option.
  2. 1 pound store-bought or homemade pizza dough
  3. ⅓ cup red bell pepper (cut into star shapes)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Let pizza dough sit for 2 hours at room temperature.
  2. Sprinkle flour on a clean surface, divide dough into 3 parts, and roll it to ¼-inch thickness.
  3. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut shapes from the dough.
  4. Place shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
  5. Spread guacamole onto the cooled tree-shaped pizzas.
  6. Top with red bell pepper stars.

These mini guacamole pizzas are festive and satisfying, making them the perfect addition to a grazing table or kids’ holiday party.

Delicious Guacamole Appetizers

The beauty of guacamole is its versatility. By transforming it into festive creations like a Grinch face, an elegant wreath, or fun Christmas tree pizzas, you solve the age-old holiday appetizer problem: how to make something familiar feel fun, unique, and on-theme.

Each of these guacamole recipes is:
Visually festive and appealing
Simple to make with just a few ingredients
Delicious enough to have guests asking for seconds

So this holiday season, ditch the boring bowl of chips and dip and give your guests something to talk about. Whether it’s a Grinch-inspired platter for family movie night or elegant guacamole wreaths for your next gathering, these recipes prove that guacamole can be so much more than a party sidekick.

Festive, flavorful, and downright fun—guacamole just got a holiday makeover!

For more Holiday recipes and ideas, check the Healthy Family Project Pinterest, if you prepare these delicious appetizers, don’t forget to tag us!

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Christmas Tree Mozzarella and Tomato Salad https://healthyfamilyproject.com/recipes/christmas-tree-mozzarella-tomato-salad/ https://healthyfamilyproject.com/recipes/christmas-tree-mozzarella-tomato-salad/#respond Tue, 10 Dec 2024 20:39:10 +0000 https://healthyfamilyproject.com/?post_type=recipe&p=44111

Looking for a festive twist on a classic Tomato & Mozzarella Salad? This easy and delicious recipe transforms fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant basil into a show-stopping holiday centerpiece. Let’s be real—holiday hosting is a lot. Between managing your kids’ excitement, navigating the endless to-do list, and trying not to burn the cookies you […]

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Looking for a festive twist on a classic Tomato & Mozzarella Salad? This easy and delicious recipe transforms fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant basil into a show-stopping holiday centerpiece.

Christmas Tree mozzarella and tomato salad on a dish

Let’s be real—holiday hosting is a lot. Between managing your kids’ excitement, navigating the endless to-do list, and trying not to burn the cookies you swore you’d make from scratch this year, adding one more “fancy” dish to your holiday table feels impossible. But you know what? Sometimes, simple is all you need.

That’s where this Christmas Tree Mozzarella and Tomato Salad comes in. It’s festive, it’s easy, and it’s impressive enough to make your guests say, “Oh wow, did you make that?” (Why yes, yes I did.) The best part? You don’t need a ton of time, ingredients, or energy to pull it off—three things I know we’re all running short on this time of year.

Close-up view of a mozzarella and tomato salad dish

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, taking a dish to a potluck, or just need something that looks really cute for your holiday table, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s one of those magical dishes that’s both beautiful and healthy, which balances out all the cookies, hot chocolate, and ahem extra slices of pie we’ve been indulging in lately.

Let’s get started, grab your mozzarella and some tomatoes, and let’s make this holiday magic happen!

Mozzarella and Tomato Salad: What You’ll Need

Utensils and ingredients in bowls needed for a mozzarella and tomato recipe

Here’s the short and sweet shopping list:

  • 8 oz container of mozzarella balls
  • Tomatoes (cherry tomatoes or larger ones you can slice)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • Sea salt
  • Fresh basil

That’s it. Six ingredients. You’ve got this!

Why This Salad Recipe Works

I’ll be honest this salad has saved me more than once. I’m a mom of three, which means most holiday prep looks like me running around in 15 different directions while my kids ask me for snacks approximately every three minutes. When you’re juggling all that, you need recipes that are:

  • Quick: This comes together in about 20 minutes, start to finish.
  • Kid-Friendly: My kids love helping with the molds and “decorating” the platter.
  • Stress-Free: No complicated steps, no surprise mishaps. Just festive and fun.
  • Actually Pretty: You’ll feel like you accomplished something Pinterest-worthy, even if the rest of the house looks like a holiday tornado hit.

Serving Ideas

This salad is a hit on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:

  • Crusty bread or homemade crostinis
  • Charcuterie boards (because, cheese and tomatoes—yes, please)
  • Holiday soups or roasts

It’s also a great dish to bring to a potluck or family gathering. Bonus: It travels well, so you don’t have to worry about it falling apart en route.

For more ideas to side this salad, you can get some inspiration from our Festive Tomato Recipes for this holiday season and enjoy them with family and friends.

Christmas Tree mozzarella and tomato salad on a dish
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Christmas Tree Mozzarella & Tomato Salad

Fresh and Delicious Tomato and Mozzarella Salad. This easy and healthy recipe transforms fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant basil into a Christmas season piece.
Course 30 Minutes or Less, Appetizers, Salads
Cuisine Italian
Keyword 30 minute meals, salad recipes
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 90kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Christmas Tree Silicon Tray

Ingredients

  • 8 oz container of mozzarella balls
  • 20 piece Cherry Tomatoes cherry tomatoes or larger ones you can slice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 Pinch Sea salt
  • 6 leaves Fresh basil

Instructions

  • Prep the Cheese: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab your cutest Christmas-themed silicone molds (I used little tree shapes), pop them onto a baking sheet, and add a mozzarella ball to each one.
    Mozzarella cheese in a Christmas Tree shape Silicon tray
  • Bake (Briefly!): Stick the molds in the oven for 8-10 minutes, until the mozzarella gets nice and melty. Keep an eye on them—you don’t want them to melt completely, just soften enough to mold into shape.
  • Cool Down: Once the cheese comes out of the oven, gently blot any excess moisture with a paper towel (because no one likes soggy cheese). Then toss the molds into the fridge for about 10 minutes to let the mozzarella firm up.
  • Slice the Tomatoes: While the cheese is cooling, slice your tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes are cute and easy, but if you’re using larger tomatoes, just slice them into rounds.
  • Assemble the Magic: Now the fun part! Arrange your sliced tomatoes on a platter to create the “base” of your salad. Carefully pop the mozzarella out of the molds and place them on top in a festive pattern.
  • Add the Finishing Touches: Drizzle the whole thing with olive oil and balsamic glaze, sprinkle a little sea salt, and top with fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 19mg | Potassium: 188mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 455IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg

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