Rich, comforting, unusual, and easy: This stylish buffet makes the perfect party spread. Featuring vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite, each nutritious dish uses familiar, easy-to-find ingredients and, best of all, can be prepared hours ahead — giving you plenty of time to set the table, put on festive music, and don your favorite outfit. For a more expansive dinner (or if you just want to enjoy the leftovers), most of these recipes are easily doubled. Raise a glass: Here's to a healthy holiday party!
Roasted Eggplant and Garlic Spread
Makes 3 cups / This can be made up to one day in advance. Serving tip: Scoop into endive leaves, or serve with whole-grain crackers. View recipe…
Spinach-Artichoke Dip
Makes 3 ½ cups / Make up to four days before serving and refrigerate. Serving tip: Serve in endive or with warm pita bread. View recipe…
Spicy Toasted Almonds
Makes 3 cups / Easy and addictive, these crunchy treats keep for about two weeks in a tightly covered container. They also make an excellent host gift. View recipe…
Marinated Vegetables with Feta
Serves 6 / Covered tightly and refrigerated, this can be prepared up to four days in advance. Prep tip: In a pinch, use bottled red bell peppers. View recipe…
Lamb Moussaka with White Beans
Serves 10 / A vegetable-laden version of the Greek classic. This entire dish can be made one day ahead; cover with foil and refrigerate, then add 15 minutes to the cooking time (remove foil after 15 minutes). View recipe…
Tzatziki
Makes 2½ cups / This fresh and delectable dip can be made up to two days in advance. It's also great on sandwiches. Ingredient tip: Greek yogurt is nice and thick, but if you can't find it, use low-fat or whole-milk plain yogurt. Serving tip: Serve with crunchy fresh crudités, such as carrots, jicama, and radishes. View recipe…
Green Salad with Fennel, Pear, and Pine Nuts
Serves 6 / Prep tips: Combine lettuces and fennel in a salad bowl, cover with damp paper towels, and refrigerate up to three hours. Add sliced pears, pine nuts, and dressing just before serving. View recipe…
Greek Cheese with Honey and Fig Preserves
Serve this sweet delight after dinner as your party chats around the fireplace. View recipe…
Recipe developer and food stylist Karin Lazarus takes her best and simplest holiday recipes with her as she shuttles between Colorado and the Caribbean. Additional recipe by Elisa Bosley.
For more great recipes, download the free Delicious Living Holiday Cookbook at deliciouslivingmag.com/cookbook.
