Revamp classic party bites like shrimp cocktail, sausage balls and clams casino into fresh new appetizers for this holiday season. 

Who doesn't love shrimp cocktail? Give this classic app a modern spin by roasting the cumin-dusted shellfish to concentrate the flavors, then pairing it with a zesty chile-cilantro dip. It's an addictive combination you can serve hot, chilled or at room temperature.

Many recipes for classic clams casino call for shucked raw clams, which can be tricky to open without a proper clam knife (and a bit of muscle). For this recipe, take a shortcut and steam the bivalves on the stovetop just until they open up. Be sure to save any leftover clam juice for chowder or Bloody Marys!

This version of the retro hors d'oeuvre rumaki — bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and chicken liver — substitutes figs, goat cheese and pesto for a fruity, tangy twist. Consider it rumaki 2.0.