As a food blogger and sage in the kitchen, I’ve compiled 50 of my favorite cold appetizer recipes that are sure to impress guests and work for any season.

These cold appetizers require minimal hands-on time, can often be made ahead of time, and allow the hosts to spend more time mingling with guests. Many can be prepped in under 10 minutes.

As you plan upcoming gatherings, refer to this roundup for inspiration. I’m confident you’ll discover new all-star recipes to add to your repertoire. Now let’s dive in!

1. Mango Salsa

This easy mango salsa adds a fun tropical twist to traditional tomato salsa. The sweet mango pairs nicely with the onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice.

Spoon it over tacos or chips, or serve it alongside grilled fish.

Mango lovers will enjoy this fresh salsa, which takes just minutes to throw together. Make it as spicy or mild as you’d like.

2. Creamy Crab Dip

For an indulgent, warm appetizer dip, you can’t go wrong with this creamy crab dip recipe. It’s a baked dip with crabmeat, cream cheese, cheddar, onion, and seasonings.

Spread it onto crispy baguette slices or serve it with crackers or crudité for dipping. Your guests will love scooping up this rich, savory dip. It’s easy to double too!

3. Smashed Cucumber Salad

With just a few ingredients and 10 minutes hands-on time, you can have this bright, refreshing smashed cucumber salad on the table.

Simply smash seeded cucumbers with a wooden spoon, then toss them with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes for a quick pickled flavor.

It’s a nice light starter or side, perfect for summer. Double the recipe for a weekend cookout.

4. Cream Cheese And Pepper Jelly

Here’s a fast, easy appetizer that always impresses. Combine cream cheese with spicy pepper jelly and serve with crackers for spreading.

The sweet and savory pairing makes a quick crowd-pleasing appetizer for hosts short on time. You can prepare it in just 5 minutes!

5. Creamy Broccoli Slaw

For a fresh and creamy potluck-style salad, you’ll love this broccoli slaw made with a tangy mayo dressing, sunflower seeds, raisins, and red onion. It’s a great make-ahead starter for your next party or family gathering.

The crunchy broccoli slaw soaks up the creamy dressing. Feel free to play around with different add-ins too like cranberries or bacon.

6. Feta-Olive-Fresh Herb Cheese Ball

This easy cheese ball is a hit at parties! Simply mix feta, cream cheese, lemon juice and zest, then form into balls. Coat the outside of the balls with a mixture of fresh parsley, olive oil, and minced onion.

Arrange them on a platter with cucumber slices, crackers, or breads for serving. The herb crust and creaminess inside make this cheese ball irresistible.

7. Pineapple Pepper Slaw

Craving something sweet, tangy, and spicy? Try this colorful pineapple pepper slaw. Toss together pineapple tidbits, purple cabbage, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and a lime vinaigrette.

The tropical flavors paired with the crunchy veggies make this slaw really pop. Bring it to a potluck for something different.

8. Dainty Cucumber Sandwiches

These cute tea sandwiches are perfect for bridal and baby showers or an afternoon tea party. Use a very sharp knife to cut ultra-thin slices of soft white sandwich bread.

Spread the slices with cream cheese, dill, and cucumber slices. Cut into small rectangles or triangles to serve. So light and refreshing!

9. Curry Chicken Salad

Chicken salad gets a flavor twist with the addition of curry powder and chutney in this recipe. I especially love the sweet backstory behind this curry chicken salad.

It was my grandmother’s signature dish she always made for parties. I doubled the recipe to feed a crowd and it quickly disappeared. Such a tasty, nostalgic appetizer.

10. Spicy Strawberry Goat Cheese Crostini

Looking for a fresh, seasonal appetizer? Top baguette slices with a mixture of strawberries, balsamic, and goat cheese. The sweet strawberries contrast nicely with the tart goat cheese and balsamic for bright flavor.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. These crostini make a light starter for spring and summer gatherings.

11. Texas Caviar

Texas caviar is a classic party appetizer made with black-eyed peas, peppers, corn, and assorted seasonings. The peas and veggies give it a fun confetti-like appearance.

Serve the salsa-like dip chilled with tortilla chips. I love that you can make the caviar ahead of time so there’s one less thing to worry about before guests arrive.

12. Spinach And Vidalia Dip

Here’s a flavorful, hearty dip featuring fresh spinach paired with sweet Vidalia onions. Sauté the veggies, then mix in sour cream, cream cheese, and seasonings. Bake until hot and bubbly.

I recommend serving this robust dip warm with pita chips or fresh vegetables for dipping. It never lasts long at parties!

13. Tomato Tea Sandwiches

Dress up traditional tomato sandwiches by cutting them into small tea sandwich sizes. Spread mayonnaise on thin white bread then top with sliced tomatoes, red onion, and basil leaves.

Cut the crustless sandwiches into small squares or rectangles. So light, fresh, and just a little fancy.

14. Quick-Pickle Cucumbers And Onions

These easy refrigerator pickles are ready in about 30 minutes, no canning needed. Slice cucumbers and red onions, then steep them in a vinegar mixture with seasonings.

Enjoy the pickled cukes and onions within a couple weeks. They make a nice crunchy topper for burgers, tacos, nachos, or cheese plates.

15. Chunky Guacamole

My go-to 10 minute homemade guacamole is perfect for Mexican fiestas. Mash avocados with lime juice, then mix in diced Roma tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and serrano pepper.

For a smoother guac, blend some of the mixture. The tomatoes and onion add nice chunks of texture. Serve with tortilla chips for scooping.

16. Shrimp On Seasoned Crackers With Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese

Here’s an easy last-minute appetizer with big flavor. Top crackers with cream cheese, pepper jelly, and a chilled shrimp.

The combination of spicy jelly and briny shrimp makes a nice pop of contrasting flavors. Make the crackers ahead of time, then assemble right before guests arrive.

17. Black Bean And Corn Salsa

Whip up this easy black bean and corn salsa with pantry staples in just 10 minutes. It packs lots of texture from the beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Stir in lime juice and seasonings for a fresh, vibrant dip. Scoop it up with tortilla chips or serve it as a taco topper.

18. Basic Pimiento Cheese

Pimiento cheese is a Southern classic! This recipe uses jarred pimientos, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and mayo for an easy cold spread with Cheddar, cream cheese, pimientos, and mayonnaise.

Try it slathered on white bread or served with crackers and vegetable crudité. The color and tangy flavor make it a retro party pleaser.

19. Marinated Feta With Cherry Tomatoes

Here’s an easy appetizer that packs nicely for picnics and potlucks – marinated feta paired with juicy cherry tomatoes. The salty feta soaks up the olive oil, oregano, garlic marinade.

Arrange on a platter with colorful cherry tomatoes for guests to skewer and enjoy. Simple but impressive!

20. Stuffed Endive With Herbed Goat Cheese

For an elegant passed appetizer or plated starter salad, stuff Belgian endive leaves with a creamy herbed goat cheese mixture. Mix goat cheese with cream cheese, lemon zest, chives, parsley, tarragon, and garlic.

Spoon into endive leaves and top with extra herbs. The crunchy endive balances the smooth, tangy filling.

21. Tex-Mex Deviled Eggs

Give your deviled eggs a fun Tex-Mex twist! The egg yolk filling gets blended with salsa verde, cilantro, and cotija cheese. A sprinkle of paprika, cayenne, or chili powder adds smoky heat. T

hese flavorful deviled eggs will be the first to go at your next party or potluck. Olé!

22. Creamy Avocado Dip

This easy avocado dip comes together right in the blender. Simply blend avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño for a creamy dip with a little kick.

Serve with tortilla chips or assorted fresh veggies for dipping. It takes just minutes to make and tastes so fresh.

23. Cherry Tomato Capreee Salad

This simple Italian salad makes a nice light starter or side. On a platter or in a shallow bowl, alternate layers of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.

Then drizzle with olive oil, balsamic glaze, and season with salt and pepper. The fresh ingredients really shine in this no-fuss caprese salad.

24. Cinnamon-Raisin Almond Butter Dip

Here’s a Greek yogurt-based dip with a delicious fall twist. Blend together Greek yogurt, almond butter, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, and golden raisins.

Chill the dip for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve with apple slices, graham crackers, or ginger snaps for dipping. Such a tasty, protein-packed appetizer.

25. Caesar Salad Bites

These fun fork-free Caesar bites are perfect party finger food. To make them, top Belgian endive leaves with Caesar dressing, parmesan, and croutons.

Or load up romaine lettuce cups for an equally tasty bite. Your guests will love these mini DIY salads.

26. Peach Salsa

Make the most of peak summer peaches with this fresh peach salsa. Dice peaches, mango, bell pepper, and red onion, then stir in lime juice, cilantro, jalapeño, and seasonings.

Sweet, hot, and tangy flavors come together in this stellar fruit salsa. Enjoy it with tortilla chips or grilled fish.

27. Pear Salad

This elegant composed salad makes a stunning starter for special occasions. Fan sliced pears over mixed baby greens, then scatter with crumbled blue cheese, candied pecans, and pomegranate arils.

Finish with a champagne vinaigrette. Your guests will be impressed with how beautiful and delicious this salad is.

28. Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp

For an easy make-ahead appetizer, poach shrimp in a Bloody Mary cocktail mixture. Add shrimp, vegetables, and seasonings to tomato juice with vodka and simmer just until shrimp are pink.

Chill completely before serving. These shrimp are infused with lots of savory flavor.

29. Cucumber Salsa

This no-cook cucumber salsa is so fresh, bright and refreshing. Simply dice cucumbers, mango, red onion, jalapeño, and mix with lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of sugar.

Chill for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. The little kick of heat and sweetness pairs nicely with the cool crunch of cucumbers.

30. Picnic Egg Salad

Classic egg salad is a nostalgic potluck staple. Hard boil eggs, chop, and mix with mayonnaise, Dijon, celery, pickle relish, onion, and herbs.

For variety, try spreading it on different types of bread – white, whole wheat, bagels, rolls, croissants. It’s endlessly versatile and satisfying.

31. Ham Salad

My family loves old-fashioned ham salad sandwiches. Prepare the ham salad by mincing cooked ham, then mixing it with mayo, sweet pickle relish, mustard, onion, and celery.

Chill thoroughly before using as a sandwich spread or spooned onto endive leaves as an appetizer. Such a tasty, protein-packed cold dip.

32. Easy Egg Salad

For fast no-fuss egg salad ready in 10 minutes, simply chop hard-boiled eggs and combine with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced celery, salt, and pepper.

The simple creamy filling can be served between bread slices, scooped onto lettuce cups, or spooned into endive spears for a light bite.

33. No Stuff Deviled Eggs

Love deviled eggs but don’t want the hassle of scooping and stuffing? Try this easy cracker crumb version.

Simply top halved hard-boiled eggs with a mixture of egg yolks, mayo, mustard, and Ritz cracker crumbs. Sprinkle with paprika and chopped chives. All the flavor without the time.

34. Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs

For fun color and flavor, pickle hard boiled eggs in a beet brine before making them into deviled eggs. The vibrant pink eggs are stuffed with a creamy yolk filling tinted pink with some of the beet juice.

Top with fresh dill and black sesame seeds for pretty party eggs your guests will love.

35. Peel And Eat Shrimp

Chilled peel and eat shrimp make easy finger food for gatherings. Simply boil shrimp in salted water flavored with Old Bay seasoning. Once cool, peel the shrimp and toss in ice water spiked with pickling spice.

Serve piled on a platter with cocktail sauce for dipping. No utensils needed!

36. Fresh Fruit Salad

One of my go-to potluck recipes is this fancy fresh fruit salad with melon, citrus, and berries. Make it vibrant by tossing together bite-sized pieces of watermelon, honeydew, pineapple, orange segments, blueberries, and raspberries.

Finish with a drizzle of poppy seed dressing. It’s light, refreshing and beautiful.

37. Chicken Salad With Grapes And Pecans

Here’s a delicious twist on chicken salad featuring sweet grapes and crunchy pecans. Dice cooked chicken and toss with mayonnaise, halved red grapes, chopped pecans, celery, and Dijon mustard.

Spoon onto lettuce-lined rolls or croissants for tasty sandwiches. Your guests will love the contrasting flavors and textures.

38. Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

Give traditional hummus an update with black-eyed peas! Blend together black-eyed peas, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, and tahini. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and extra smoked paprika.

This protein-rich hummus has an addictive smoky flavor. Serve it with pita chips or fresh veggie sticks for dipping.

39. Asparagus Ribbon Crostini

Show off spring asparagus by shaving it into thin ribbons to top crisp crostini. Simply use a vegetable peeler to slice asparagus lengthwise into long ribbons.

Mound the ribbons over baguette toasts and finish with lemon zest, grated Parm, and flakes of sea salt. So fresh and seasonal!

40. Watergate Salad

This retro pistachio pudding and marshmallow salad, also known as Watergate Salad or Green Stuff, is an irresistible potluck throwback. In a large bowl, mix chopped pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, whipped cream, and nuts. Chill before serving. It’s fun, fluffy and full of nostalgia!

41. Loaded Deviled Eggs

If you love deviled eggs, try this loaded version with crispy chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh chives! Simply fold the tasty mix-ins into the egg yolk filling before spooning into the egg whites. The combo of creamy eggs, smoky bacon, and melty cheese takes these deviled eggs over the top.

42. Dill Pickle Dip

This easy chilly dilly pickle dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Purée dill pickles, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and dill in the food processor.

Chill for 1 hour before serving with potato chips or crackers for scooping up the cool, briny dip. The tangy flavor is addictive.

43. Basic Deviled Eggs

You can’t go wrong with classic deviled eggs made simply with creamy egg yolk filling and paprika. Hard boil eggs, split lengthwise, remove yolks, and mash with mayo, Dijon, salt, and pepper.

Spoon into egg whites, dust with paprika and chopped chives. These easy crowd-pleasing eggs are always requested!

44. Heirloom Tomato-Cracker Salad

Make the most of summer’s bounty of heirloom tomatoes with this gorgeous composed salad. Alternate colorful tomato slices with herbed crackers, fresh mozzarella, basil, and arugula on a platter. Finish with olive oil and balsamic. Beautiful and delicious!

45. Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

These petite cucumber tea sandwiches are perfect for bridal showers or an elegant afternoon gathering. Thinly slice soft white bread and spread with a chive cream cheese mixture.

Top with thin cucumber slices, remove crusts, and cut into small triangles. So light and refreshing served with tea or punch.

46. Cherry Fluff

My grandma made this sweet retro salad for every family reunion. It’s a fluffy, pink mixture of drained crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and maraschino cherries.

Fold in whipped cream just before serving chilled. Scoop it into dessert cups or serve it right from the colorful vintage glass bowl for nostalgia.

47. Sweet Pea-Parmesan Dip

Here’s a fast no-cook dip that’s perfect for spring. Purée frozen peas, Greek yogurt, parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor.

Chill the vivid green dip for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy this quick, protein-packed dip with crackers, breads, or fresh veggies.

48. Carrot Raisin Salad

For a fresh, crunchy side salad, I love this carrot raisin pineapple salad tossed in a creamy poppyseed dressing. Shred carrots, dice pineapple, add raisins, and mix with the tangy dressing and pecans.

Chill before serving mounded on lettuce. The mix of flavors and textures makes this salad shine.

49. Smoked Vidalia Onion Dip With Grilled Crudités

Whip up an easy onion dip with caramelized Vidalia onions, sour cream, cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and chipotle powder. The smoky spicy flavor pairs perfectly with raw vegetable crudités straight from the grill. Try zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, and sweet onions for dipping.

50. Ham Cheese Ball

This make-ahead ham and cheese ball is a handy appetizer to have in your party arsenal. Simply mix ground ham, shredded Swiss cheese, cream cheese, parsley, mustard, and spices.

Chill, shape into a ball, then roll in chopped pecans before serving. Enjoy spread on crackers or crudités.

As the weather gets cooler, it’s time to break out the hot appetizers. Whether you’re hosting game day, planning holiday parties, or just want a cozy weeknight meal, these easy hot appetizers are sure to satisfy.

From baked dips and meatballs to fried bites and grilled skewers, this roundup has something for everyone.

Keep reading for 50 of my favorite hot appetizer recipes perfect for fall and winter entertaining!

1. Turkish Spiced Meatballs with Pomegranate Yogurt Sauce

These juicy, light, and flavorful Turkish meatballs are a crowd-pleaser. They’re seasoned with warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and Aleppo pepper. The cool and creamy yogurt sauce provides a tangy contrast, accented with tart pomegranate juice and sweet jewel-like arils. Serve these over rice or with pita for soaking up the sauce.

2. Three-Cheese Onion Dip

Onion dip gets an upgrade in this warm, cheesy appetizer. Sour cream and onion soup mix form the base of a creamy onion dip, which is folded together with melted pepper jack, Gruyère, and Parmesan. It’s all topped off with snipped chives and tangy pepperoncini rings for a little crunch. Serve it straight from the baking dish with your favorite potato chips or crudités.

3. Clam Toasts with Pancetta

These clam toasts combine the briny sweetness of shellfish with the salty-sweet crunch of pancetta. Chopped baby clams are sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and parsley, then mounded on toasted baguette slices. Crispy cubes of pancetta and a squirt of lemon tie everything together. It’s an easy yet elegant passed appetizer.

4. Vegetarian Buffalo “Meatballs” With Blue Cheese Dip

These spicy vegetarian “meatballs” are made from a combo of white beans and mushrooms. They’re rolled into balls, breaded, and baked until crispy on the outside and tender inside. Then they’re tossed in Buffalo hot sauce for a kick of heat! Served with creamy blue cheese dip and celery sticks, they make a fun plant-based twist on a familiar bar snack.

5. Polenta Bites With Wild Mushrooms and Fontina

These polenta appetizers are crispy on the outside, creamy inside. Slices of cooked polenta are brushed with oil and browned until crisp. They’re then topped with sautéed wild mushrooms and gooey melted Fontina cheese. Pop them under the broiler until the cheese bubbles and starts to brown. The earthy mushrooms and nutty cheese pair perfectly with the sweet corn flavor of the polenta.

6. Goat Cheese Croquettes With Spiced Membrillo

These croquettes are bursting with fresh, creamy goat cheese and sweet-spicy membrillo. Membrillo is a quince paste popular in Spain, here spiked with sherry vinegar, Aleppo pepper, and lemon juice. The mixture is formed into croquettes, chilled, then fried until gorgeously golden brown and crispy. They make an elegant passed appetizer or addition to a cheese board.

7. Carrot Tart With Ricotta and Almond Filling

This beautiful savory tart is topped with sliced carrots in an eye-catching geometric pattern. Inside, the tender shortcrust is filled with a light and creamy ricotta and almond mixture seasoned with nutmeg and black pepper. It’s impressive enough for a dinner party, yet easy enough for a weeknight meal. Serve it warm or at room temperature.

8. Fried Oysters With Bacon, Garlic, and Sage

These crispy fried oysters are topped with a flavorful mix of bacon, garlic, and sage. Large oyster shells are rinsed and patted dry, then chilled in the fridge for a few hours before dredging and frying. This helps the rice flour coating adhere better for perfectly crispy, non-greasy oysters. They’re finished with the aromatic bacon, garlic, and sage topping just before serving.

9. Shrimp Toasts With Sesame Seeds and Scallions

These Chinese-inspired shrimp toasts make for easy finger food. A flavorful mixture of minced shrimp, mushrooms, sherry, soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions gets sandwiched between crispy fried wonton wrappers. Topped with toasted sesame seeds and more scallions, they’re great for passing at parties or game day. The sweet shrimp filling balances beautifully with the crunchy wrappers.

10. Fried Meatballs with Tahini Sauce

In this recipe, beef and lamb meatballs are rolled small and tight, then coated in a light millet flour breading. This helps them fry up with a phenomenally crispy crust enveloping the juicy, savory meatball within. They’re served with a simple tahini sauce brightened with lemon juice and garlic. It’s a Middle Eastern take on fried meatballs that’s full of warm spices and herb flavors.

11. Cauliflower-Carrot Cheesy Tots

Give tater tots a healthy makeover with these cheesy cauliflower and carrot tots. They’re made entirely from riced cauliflower and carrots along with cheese, eggs, and seasonings. Baking instead of frying keeps them light yet crisp. Kids and adults alike will love dipping these flavorful veggie tots into ketchup, ranch, or other favorite condiments.

12. Warmed Spiced Olives

Plain olives get jazzed up by gently warming them on the stovetop with aromatics. Here, meaty Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives are cooked briefly with lemon zest, bay leaves, olive oil, and Aleppo pepper. As they warm, the olives become plumper and more flavorful. They make easy yet impressive finger food to enjoy before dinner with drinks.

13. Crab Rangoon (Cream Cheese Crab Wonton)

A Chinese-American restaurant classic, crab rangoon feature crispy fried wonton wrappers with a creamy crab and cream cheese filling. Simply mix together cream cheese, minced onion, crab meat, tarragon, and salt and pepper. Scoop a tablespoon of filling into each wonton, seal, and fry until beautifully golden. Serve them hot with duck or sweet and sour sauce.

14. Seared Halloumi with Peanut Dukkah and Honey

Here, salty squeaky Halloumi cheese gets seared until crisp and golden. It’s then finished with a sprinkle of peanut dukkah, an Egyptian nut and spice blend, along with a drizzle of honey for sweetness. The peanut dukkah’s crunchy texture and fragrant spices complement the mild, briny cheese beautifully. All it needs is a squeeze of lemon juice right before eating.

15. Panisses With Sage Leaves and Lemon

These easy chickpea fritters known as panisses hail from Southern France. A simple batter of chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt is scooped into hot oil and fried into crispy fingers. They’re best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy, garnished with fresh sage leaves and lemon wedges. Eat them on their own or dip in spicy mayo.

16. Boneless Buffalo Chicken “Wings”

Get your spicy chicken wing fix without the bones in these breaded boneless “wings.” Chicken tenderloins are coated in cornstarch and flour, then fried until crisp on the outside and juicy inside. Tossed in your favorite Buffalo hot sauce, they make easy finger food for game day or parties. Serve them with blue cheese or ranch dip plus celery sticks on the side.

17. Parsnip-Wrapped Devils on Horseback

Devils on horseback are classically made with bacon, but this vegetarian version uses thinly sliced parsnips instead. The parsnips get infused with a mixture of soy sauce, smoked paprika, Worcestershire, and blue cheese, then wrapped around pitted dates. They’re roasted until the parsnips are caramelized and dates are gooey. Topped with smoked almonds, they make a creative passed appetizer.

18. Cashew and Coconut Shrimp

These crispy coconut shrimp get their crunch from toasted cashews in the coating. Large shrimp are tossed in a sticky cashew butter and coconut milk mixture, then rolled in crushed cashews and coconut flakes. Fried briefly, the cashews toast to a phenomenally crunchy crust while the shrimp stays juicy inside. Serve them with a zingy mango ginger dipping sauce.

19. Cheese Fondue With Beer and Bourbon

This ooey, gooey cheese fondue stays silky smooth thanks to a secret ingredient – Babybel cheese. The wax coating prevents the proteins in Babybel from breaking down. Just be sure to remove the wax first! The fondue features melty Gruyère infused with nutty brown ale and a splash of bourbon. Dip in crusty bread, apples, soft pretzels, and more.

20. Clams Casino With Bacon and Bell Pepper

Clams Casino is taken to new heights with the addition of smoky bacon and tangy bell pepper. The classic combination of clams, buttered breadcrumbs, and Parmesan gets some crunch from diced red bell pepper. Crispy bacon adds a pop of salty, porky flavor. They’re broiled just until the clams open and the topping is browned. Serve them hot with lemon wedges.

21. Pigs-in-a-Blanket With Chorizo, Membrillo, and Manchego

Traditional pigs-in-a-blanket get a Spanish twist with spicy chorizo, sweet membrillo, and nutty Manchego cheese layered inside. The piggies are made with puff pastry for a light and flaky texture. Membrillo, also known as quince paste, adds sweetness to balance the spice and saltiness from the chorizo and cheese. Serve them with mustard or chimichurri dip.

22. 3-Ingredient Buffalo Grilled Chicken Wings

With just three ingredients, these Buffalo grilled chicken wings deliver fiery flavor fast. Chicken drumettes are tossed with melted butter and Frank’s RedHot sauce, then grilled until caramelized. The hot sauce infuses the wings with spice and tang as they grill, while the butter keeps them juicy. Ready in just an hour, they’re perfect for impromptu game day appetizers.

23. Jalapeño Poppers With Smoked Gouda

Take jalapeño poppers to new heights by using both cream cheese and smoked Gouda for the filling. The Gouda adds nutty, smoky flavor to the classic pepper and cream cheese combo. Halved jalapeños are filled with the cheesy mixture, then breaded and fried crispy. The moderate heat of the jalapeños balances wonderfully with the rich, melty filling.

24. Spanish Tortilla Bites with Winter Greens and Garlic

These single-bite tortilla appetizers are crispy on the outside, creamy inside. Eggs, potatoes, kale, and garlic are cooked together into little frittatas. Once cooled, they can be crumbled into large chunks for serving. Garnished with extra salt and olive oil, they make a uniquely savory finger food. The winter greens add great texture and flavor.

25. Artichoke and Feta Tarts

Light and flaky store-bought puff pastry shells make an easy foundation for these pretty tarts. Thawed and drained artichoke hearts are combined with tangy feta, Parmesan, lemon juice, and herbs. The savory mixture is spooned into the shells and baked until golden brown. They can be made ahead and reheated just before serving. It’s an easy yet impressive appetizer for your next dinner party.

26. Broccoli and Garlic-Ricotta Toasts With Hot Honey

Broccoli and ricotta make an unlikely but delicious combination on these appetizer toasts. Chopped steamed broccoli is mixed with roasted garlic, lemon zest, salt and pepper. The bright green mixture is mounded on baguette toasts spread with creamy ricotta. A final drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey provides the perfect sweet heat finish.

27. Gambas al Ajillo

This classic Spanish tapa of shrimp sautéed in garlicky olive oil truly lives up to its name, gambas al ajillo, meaning shrimp with garlic. Large shrimp are cooked over high heat just until pink, along with ample garlic and chili flakes for heat. Splash the shrimp with some sherry vinegar or lemon juice just before serving. The garlicky juices are great for dipping crusty bread.

28. 3-Ingredient Smoked Mozzarella Sticks

With just egg roll wrappers, smoked mozzarella, and marinara sauce, you can have homemade mozzarella sticks on the table in 25 minutes. The egg roll wrappers fry up deliciously crispy with the melty cheese inside. The smoky mozzarella adds extra depth of flavor. Serve these cheesy bites as game day appetizers or alongside pasta night.

29. Classic Spinach-Artichoke Dip With Mozzarella and Parmesan

This crowd-pleasing spinach-artichoke dip is loaded with melty mozzarella and nutty Parmesan cheese. Spinach, artichokes, garlic, and seasonings are mixed with mayo, Greek yogurt, and the cheeses, then baked until hot and bubbly. For an edible serving dish, scoop it into a small bread bowl or hollowed out round loaf. Serve it with pita chips, bagel chips, or fresh vegetables.

30. Savory Mushroom and Parmesan Palmiers

Palmiers get a savory twist in this recipe with the addition of mushrooms, Parmesan, and thyme. Also known as elephant ears, palmiers are puff pastry appetizers shaped into pretty swirls. Here, they’re spread with sautéed mushrooms, then sprinkled with grated Parmesan and fresh thyme before rolling up. Baked until golden, they’re ideal for fancy holiday parties or bridal showers.

31. Grilled Clam Toasts With Lemon and Green Olives

Fresh clams meet briny green olives in this easy grilled appetizer. Shucked clams are roughly chopped and combined with minced shallot, olive oil, lemon zest, and chopped green olives. The mixture is mounded onto grilled bread slices, then topped with grated Parmesan. Broiled just until the cheese melts, these satisfying clam toasts are perfect for a casual summer cookout.

32. Fried Squid With Aioli

Extra crispy fried squid is a tapas bar essential. Here, cleaned squid is cut into rings and tentacles, then dredged in cornstarch and flour and fried at high heat. This creates an ultra light and crispy coating. Fried basil leaves and a dollop of garlic aioli add fresh herbal flavor. Make sure to fry it in small batches to prevent steaming. Serve it hot with lemon wedges.

33. Pigs-in-a-Blanket with Hoisin and Scallion

Pigs-in-a-blanket get an Asian spin with hoisin sauce and scallions in the roll-up. The savory hoisin, a thick Chinese barbecue sauce, pairs wonderfully with the fatty, salty hot dogs. Chopped scallions add fresh onion flavor and green color contrast. Brushed with a bit of sesame oil before baking, they’re beautifully golden, crisp, and fragrant.

34. Swiss Chard and Herb Fritters

These flavorful veggie fritters are packed with Swiss chard, parsley, cilantro, dill, scallions, chickpea flour, and spices. The mixture is scooped by tablespoons into hot oil and fried on both sides until crispy. Though delicious on their own, they’re even better served with yogurt for dipping. The minty yogurt cools the heat from the fritters beautifully.

35. Skillet Bruschetta with Beans and Greens

This skillet bruschetta makes great use of leftover bread and veggies. Stale bread is toasted in olive oil until crunchy, then topped with a sautéed mix of garlicky white beans, spinach, kale, and sun-dried tomatoes. Everything is brought together with lemon juice, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Serve it family-style right from the skillet for a fun presentation.

36. Sesame Chicken Drumettes

These saucy chicken drumettes are packed with the comforting flavors of takeout sesame chicken, without the hassle of frying. Chicken drumettes are baked until crispy then tossed in a sticky, gingery sauce with soy sauce, sherry, honey, garlic, and sesame oil. Topped with toasted sesame seeds, they make easy yet impressive party food or game day snacking.

37. Stout-Steamed Shellfish with Charred Onions

Meaty mussels and briny clams get steamed in the flavorful, full body of stout beer. Onion wedges are charred on the grill to add a subtle smokiness. Once the shellfish open, they’re piled high on toasted sourdough with the beer broth and grilled onions. For dipping, serve the shell-on shellfish with small bowls of the savory broth.

38. Pumpkin Kolokithopita (Greek Phyllo Pastries)

These crispy Greek phyllo pastries, called kolokithopita, are filled with creamy pumpkin, feta, ricotta, and warming spices. Sheets of phyllo dough are layered with the pumpkin filling and baked until golden and flaky.

They can be assembled up to a day ahead, then baked right before serving. The pastries make an easy yet impressive fall or winter appetizer for both meat-eaters and vegetarians.

39. Broccoli Bagna Càuda

Dip roasted broccoli florets into a warming anchovy sauce for a creative twist on veggies and dip. The savory Italian bagna càuda sauce features olive oil, butter, anchovies, garlic, and red pepper flakes slowly simmered together. Dunk bites of tender-crisp broccoli straight into the pot of sauce for tons of flavor. The umami sauce complements the vegetal broccoli beautifully.

40. Sweet Potato and Brussels Sprout Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake often loaded with cabbage. In this veggie version, grated sweet potato and shredded Brussels sprouts replace the cabbage. The mixture is fried into a large pancake, then topped with traditional okonomiyaki toppings like kewpie mayo, okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and pickled ginger. Cut into wedges, it makes a fun appetizer to enjoy with drinks. The crispy exterior gives way to a sweet, hearty interior.

41. Beer-Steamed Mussels With Chorizo

Smoky spicy chorizo ramps up traditional beer-steamed mussels. The mussels are steamed open in a Belgian wheat beer, cherry tomatoes, herbs, and slices of fresh chorizo. Once open, they’re served in big bowls with crusty bread for soaking up the incredible broth. The rich, tomatoey broth is out of this world – don’t let a drop go to waste!

42. 3-Ingredient Curry Grilled Chicken Wings

Only three ingredients get these chicken wings grill-ready in just an hour. Chicken drumettes are tossed with Greek yogurt seasoned with curry powder. The yogurt helps the spice rub adhere while keeping the wings super juicy. Grilled over direct heat, they char beautifully. The curried yogurt forms a creamy, flavorful coating as they cook.

43. Pigs-in-a-Blanket With Sauerkraut and Mustard

Savory sauerkraut and tangy mustard give these pigs-in-a-blanket a German twist. Beef hot dogs get wrapped in puff pastry, then topped with a strip of sauerkraut and dollop of mustard before sealing. They’re baked until the puff pastry is beautifully golden brown and flaky. With crunchy sauerkraut and zippy mustard inside, they’re total comfort food.

44. 3-Ingredient Garlic-Herb Grilled Chicken Wings

For juicy garlic-herb grilled wings, look no further than this fast marinade. Chicken drumettes are combined with olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning, then left to marinate for just 10 minutes – or up to overnight. The oil and seasonings permeate the wings as they grill for incredible flavor. Best of all, the 3-ingredient marinade couldn’t be simpler.

45. Artichoke, Spinach, and Prosciutto Flatbreads With Spicy Honey

These flatbreads are piled high with savory toppings then finished with a drizzle of spicy honey. Naan or pizza dough is spread with creamy hummus, then layered with artichoke hearts, spinach, and prosciutto. After baking, they’re finished with a zig-zag of Mike’s Hot Honey for some sweet heat. Cut into wedges, they make perfect appetizer finger food.

46. Instant Pot Thai Coconut Clams

For Thai coconut clams on the fly, turn to your Instant Pot. Fresh clams steam open in a mixture of coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, ginger, and cilantro. The salty, tangy, rich coconut broth doubles as a sauce for dipping crusty bread. Thanks to the pressurized environment, the clams cook in a fraction of the time as on the stovetop.

47. 3-Ingredient Gochujang Grilled Chicken Wings With Scallion

Only 3 ingredients and 30 minutes get these gochujang grilled chicken wings on the table. Chicken drumettes are tossed with gochujang (Korean red chili paste), minced garlic, and oil. As they grill, the gochujang becomes a glazy coating infused with sweet-spicy-savory flavor. Topped with chopped scallions, they disappear fast from the appetizer spread.

48. Seared Steak Tartare with Rosemary

Skip the raw eggs and serve this Italian version of steak tartare crispy on the outside, rare inside. Finely minced steak is formed into patties and seared briefly on both sides. The patties are then chopped into bite-sized pieces and seasoned with olive oil, parsley, garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and rosemary. Served with crostini, it makes sophisticated dinner party fare.

49. Padrón Peppers Stuffed with Tetilla Cheese

In this Spanish appetizer, sweet and mild Padrón peppers get stuffed with rich Tetilla cheese and garlicky mayonnaise. Tetilla is a cow’s milk cheese from Galicia with a semi-soft texture and buttery flavor. The creamy, garlic-spiked filling pairs wonderfully with the crisp peppers. It’s a perfect appetizer to enjoy with Spanish Albariño white wine.

50. Mussels With Chorizo and Tomatoes on Toast

This one-pan mussel dish doubles as incredible appetizer toasts. Mussels steam open in a tomatoey sauce with chorizo, white beans, and onions. Once the mussels open, pile them on crisp toast points with the spectacular broth. The salty, rich seafood and sausage flavors pair so well with the crunchy fried bread. Provide small bowls for sopping up every last drop of broth.