The best part of the holiday season might just be...the appetizers. Whether you're headed to a festive cocktail party, hosting a cozy gathering at home, or simply snacking with friends over a great bottle of wine, these easy holiday appetizer recipes are guaranteed to earn a repeat invitation. We've rounded up Chef Magnus's most popular appetizers, featuring Clif Family's small-batch preserves, organic ingredients, and lots of delicious flavor.
Red Pepper Pimento Cheese
We make our Red Pepper Jam in small batches in our Organic Farm Kitchen, using peppers grown organically just a few miles away at the Clif Family Farm. Chef Magnus adds this flavorful jam to this Pimento Cheese recipe. Cowgirl Creamery's Wagon Wheel creates a creamy base that lets the bold flavor of the Red Pepper Jam shine. Spread generously on crostini and watch it disappear.
We suggest pairing with 2024 Unoaked Chardonnay
Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini with White Wine Jelly
Our White Wine Jelly adds a sweet-and-tangy twist to herbed goat cheese, turning a simple crostini into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It's delicious paired with bubbles or a crisp white wine for cocktail hour, this recipe is easy to make and even easier to eat.
We suggest pairing with 2024 Vino Del Pranzo Sauvignon Blanc
The Best Savory Onion Dip
This is not your average onion dip - it's the upgraded, can't-stop-eating-it version. And instead of spending an hour caramelized onions, we've already done the heavy lifting for you with our Savory Onion Jam. Just mix, serve, and watch it disappear. Pair with crunchy chips, fresh veggies, or toasted baguette slices. Find the recipe here.
We suggest pairing with 2023 Napa Valley Chardonnay
Spanish Pimentón Almond Miso Spread
Bold, smoky, and totally unexpected - this spread is your secret-weapon appetizer. Spanish pimentón adds a smoky paprika kick, miso gives it depth and umami, and toasted almonds bring the perfect nutty crunch.
We suggest pairing with 2023 Sonoma Valley Grenache
Warm Spinach Artichoke Dip
Creamy, cozy, and always a crowd favorite—this Warm Spinach Artichoke Dip brings peak holiday comfort to the table. Packed with artichokes, sautéed spinach, and melty cheese, it’s the kind of appetizer that disappears the second it hits the table. Serve it fresh from the oven with crostini, crackers, or your favorite veggies.
We suggest pairing with 2023 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc
