Happy December, all! The holidays still aren’t quite back to normal, but they are flying by as usual.

Christmas is such a magical time in the home. Traditions are maintained and new ones started, special decor is put on display, and the gift of giving back fills our spirits.

It’s also a time for holiday get togethers and the last thing you need is to be spending too much time in the kitchen!

To help you have an enjoyable holiday, I’m sharing two simple and unique appetizers you could bring or serve at your next party. You’ll be impressing guests in no time with these delicious bites!

Savory

Tomato & mozzarella bites

This is a classic! Simply slice fresh heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, and add fresh basil and a balsamic drizzle. You can get creative with this and make it into a festive shape, but I kept it simple and added a basil garnish for more of a wreath look. No matter how you slice it, this is a crowd pleaser! Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve on a holiday dish.

You can add this on top of crostini but I like it plain. We add avocado in the summertime and its delicious!

For this app, I typically use this mozzarella (any store bought “block” will do!) and balsamic glaze, not vinegar.

PS - You can get a drizzle look! My glaze had been in the fridge a while and it began to spread out by the time I took photos.

Sweet

Persimmon & pear crostini

We have a beautiful Fuyu persimmon tree in our backyard. It’s blazing orange right now and the fruit is beginning to ripen.

This was my first time using these persimmons, and I was excited to experiment! Since I already had mozzarella, basil, and balsamic on hand, I searched for some ideas with those ingredients.

This crostini is amazing and so easy to put together! The persimmons add a subtle sweetness, while the pear compliments with a crisp flavor. The basil adds the perfect touch along with the balsamic drizzle.

You can purchase Fuyu persimmons at your local grocery store. Make sure they are brilliant orange and firm with a little give to ensure they’re ripe.

They’re a delicious, unique treat, and I can’t wait to bring you more ideas with them. They also make for a fun centerpiece!

For this app, you can use store-bought or homemade crostini. Slice mozzarella, persimmon, and pear (I used Bosch) into small pieces to fit your crostini. Layer the ingredients, top with fresh basil leaves and balsamic drizzle and enjoy!