6 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizers

Get a head start on your holiday cooking with these time-saving appetizer recipes.

By Diane Morgan

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Warm Maryland Crab Dip with Lemon Panko Topping
This dip highlights the crab flavor and texture without masking it and makes a light counterpoint to the Thanksgiving feast to follow.
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Wild Mushroom and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets
These puff pastry pockets are simple to make and freeze beautifully. Have them ready to pop in the oven throughout the holiday season.
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Vermont Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese Straws
It’s the spicy and sharp flavor of traditionally made farmhouse Cheddars that delivers the deep, rich taste of these crisp cheese straws.
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Roasted Chestnut Soup with a Mushroom Garnish
Roasted chestnuts are a winter’s treat. If you have never peeled and eaten a freshly roasted chestnut, nor savored its aroma, then make this soup.
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Squash Soup with Parmesan Croutons
Delicata squash, as its name implies, is a finely flavored, richly sweet winter squash with a nearly fibreless flesh. Its beautiful yellow flesh and delicate flavor make it perfect for this puréed soup.
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Spinach, Pear, and Shaved Parmesan Salad
A spinach salad, especially one with ripe fall pears, is a welcome addition to the Thanksgiving table. The salad can be served in a large bowl as part of a buffet, or on individual salad plates alongside the main course.
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