10+ Giada's Favorite Christmas Appetizers

Christmas is my favorite time to bring out the best appetizers, and Giada always delivers recipes that feel both fancy and cozy. This list of 10+ Giada’s Favorite Christmas Appetizers has everything you need to impress—crunchy goat cheese toasts, bold spicy shrimp, and sweet-tangy apricot mostarda that’s perfect for any holiday spread.

What I love most is how simple they are to make ahead. Set out a platter of prosciutto-wrapped asparagus or shrimp ciabatta and let your guests mingle with something delicious in hand. Trust me, these appetizers will make your holiday hosting a breeze!

1. Giada Fried Polenta

There’s something so comforting about crispy, golden polenta bites.

Giada’s version is pure magic: creamy polenta slices fried to perfection and sprinkled with Parmesan.

Serve them with warm marinara, and you’ve got a cozy Christmas appetizer everyone will rave about. These are so good, you’ll want to double the batch!

2. Giada Olive and Sun-dried Tomato Tapenade With Endive Leaves

This is Giada’s go-to for effortless holiday hosting.

The briny olives and sweet sun-dried tomatoes make the perfect pair, and the endive leaves add a crisp, fresh crunch.

It’s simple, elegant, and just the thing to start your Christmas feast. Plus, you can make it ahead—stress-free and fabulous!

3. Giada Roasted Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

Nothing says Christmas elegance like Giada’s prosciutto-wrapped asparagus.

Roasted until tender, then wrapped in salty prosciutto, these bites are as stunning as they are simple.

They’re the perfect balance of fresh and indulgent, making them a must-have on your holiday table.

4. Giada Crab Arancini

These little bites of heaven are a Christmas showstopper.

Creamy risotto with sweet crab, a hint of lemon, and a crunchy golden crust—Giada’s crab arancini are irresistible.

Pair them with marinara for dipping, and watch your guests swoon. Don’t be surprised if they’re gone in minutes!

5. Giada Asian Sesame Chicken Wings

Sticky, savory, and with just the right hint of ginger, these sesame chicken wings are a must for your Christmas party spread.

Marinated overnight in a flavorful tamari and sesame mix, they bake up golden and glossy.

A sprinkle of cilantro and sesame seeds finishes them off, making these wings the perfect combination of festive and finger-licking good.

6. Giada Spicy Calabrian Shrimp

These shrimp are bold, zesty, and perfect for kicking off your Christmas dinner with a little heat!

Coated in a mix of Parmigiano, Calabrian chile paste, and lemon zest, Giada’s shrimp bake in under 10 minutes.

The fresh basil and lemon drizzle at the end? That’s the magic touch that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

7. Giada Oysters with Prosecco Mignonette

Looking for something elegant to wow your guests? Giada’s oysters with Prosecco mignonette are pure holiday sophistication.

The mignonette, with its bright lemon and bubbly prosecco, pairs beautifully with the briny oysters. Serve these chilled for an appetizer that feels like a Christmas toast on a plate.

8. Giada Goat Cheese Toasts

Creamy, tangy goat cheese spread over golden toasts—these are a Christmas classic in my book.

Giada’s recipe adds a touch of lemon zest and herbs to the cheese, making it light and flavorful.

Topped with briny olives and fresh chives, these toasts are the perfect little bites for a cozy holiday gathering.

9. Giada Mozzarella and Strawberry Bruschetta

This sweet and savory bruschetta is like Christmas on a plate!

Giada’s mix of juicy strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil pairs beautifully with creamy mozzarella and crispy baguette slices.

The drizzle of honey and balsamic takes it over the top. It’s festive, fresh, and oh-so-easy to make.

10. Giada Toasted Ciabatta With Shrimp, Tarragon, and Arugula

Creamy, herby, and packed with juicy shrimp, this is Giada’s answer to a showstopping holiday appetizer.

Crispy ciabatta topped with a mascarpone and tarragon shrimp mix is pure perfection. It’s hearty enough to impress but light enough to keep you ready for the Christmas feast ahead.