I’m sharing 7 Paleo holiday appetizers with you, but not for the reasons you might assume.

The reason for sharing these 7 Paleo holiday appetizers is twofold, really:

1. You might need it. Do I think you should follow a Paleo or any other templated diet? Nope. Not in the least bit. You should create your own diet based on everything that is unique to you and only you. However, templates always provide a sound starting place. If you’re trying to heal your gut, Paleo is a great template to start from.
2. Less is more. Not only are these Paleo holiday appetizers, but they all contain fairly minimal ingredients. I’m desiring to create more concoctions for you in the upcoming year. And the reason I say “concoction” vs. recipe is because I feel like being super basic. Because I know that the simpler we make things in the kitchen, the easier it is to stick with and heal. Consistency is a huge piece of the puzzle.

Okay, so let’s dig into these appetizers.

7 Paleo Holiday Appetizers {Alternatives to Traditional Appetizers}

Click HERE to save these 7 Paleo holiday appetizers for later.

Note: The list below first states the traditional appetizer; the alternative comes next.

1. Mini meatballs; Alternative: Mini Bison Bacon Meatballs

   Sure, there are mini meatballs galore this time of year. But how about trying a recipe filled with wholesome, healthy ingredients like almond meal, bison, sage, and thyme? They are a perfect party “popper.”

2. Pig in a blanket: Alternative: Homemade Paleo Pigs in a Blanket

   If you don’t want the conventional hot dog and dough, choose a Paleo Pig in a Blanket recipe like THIS. They are mini, perfect for a bite-sized indulgence and filled with quality ingredients.

3. Charcuterie board; Alternative: Paleo-style Charcuterie board

   A traditional Charcuterie board started with ingredients like cured meats, cheese, olives, nuts, dried fruit, crackers and/or baguette bread, and various jellies or jams. This one is not a recipe, but instead an idea of what to put on your Paleo-style Charcuterie board:

   1. Olives
   2. Pickles
   3. Fermented veggies
   4. Artichokes
   5. Grapes
   6. Strawberries
   7. Berries
   8. Baby cherry tomatoes
   9. Bell peppers
   10. Baby carrots
   11. Cucumbers
   12. The Sweet and Spicy No-Bake Holiday Nuts from below
   13. Cacao nibs
   14. Dairy-free Chocolate Chunks
   15. Probiotic Vegan Cheese from below
   16. Grain-free crackers
   17. Buffalo Chicken Dip

4. Spinach Artichoke Dip; Alternative: Avocado Spinach Dip

   Don’t misunderstand this one. I love a traditional Spinach Artichoke Dip. Just incredible! However, there is so much dairy in it, that you might be left feeling miserable. Skip that; try this Avocado Spinach Dip No dairy, avocado makes the bulk of it, and you’ll also get some greens with the spinach addition.

5. Cream Cheese Ball; Alternative: Probiotic Vegan Cheese

   Back in the day I made this massive Western Bacon Cheese Ball. I’m in the process of recreating the mess that it was. “Mess” because it used all sorts of processed junk. But if you want the truth, yes, it was delicious. Don’t give up the cheese ball, just give up the junk. This is a simple, vegan cheese recipe boosted with probiotics for optimal gut health.

6. Pinwheels with Cream cheese: Alternative: Minnesota Sushi

   I’m used to having pinwheels with cream cheese every single Christmas morning. It’s an odd staple that just sort of became a staple. But you know what competes with them for flavor and delight? The Minnesota Sushi. You laugh, but don’t knock it until you try it. 🙂

7. Generic bagged nut mix; Alternative: Sweet and Spicy No-Bake Holiday Nuts

   Why get out a bag of generic mixed nuts filled with Cottonseed oil when you can make your own? Sweet and Spicy No-Bake Holiday Nuts are infused with the perfect blend of sweet and salty, and an added flare of spice. They make a great holiday appetizer or snack and/or an on-the-go option all year round. 

If you liked this post, you might also enjoy:

1. 11 Gut Health Holiday Season Survival Tips
2. Start Here
3. Gut Health During the Holidays {Holistic Approach}

Disclosure: This is a paid, sponsored post in partnership with Providence St. Joseph Health. Learn more about plus connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Instagram. All opinions started here are 100% my own. I appreciate your support, as this compensation helps with expenses to keep this website up and running, and for me to continue sharing all that I can with you. For my full disclaimer and disclosure click HERE. Thank you for your support!

Xox,
SKH

Sarah Kay Hoffman

You will heal. I will help.