easy appetizers travel well

17 Make Ahead Appetizers That Travel Well (Easy Recipes)

• June 2, 2023
• Appetizers , Recipes

Not sure what to bring to a party that you’re traveling to?

Here are 17 easy make ahead appetizers that travel well and can be served cold or at room temperature so that you never have to come to a party empty-handed ever again.

Table of Contents

If you’re anything like me, you get a little stressed when asked to bring an appetizer to a party. What can I make that is both easy to make and will travel well? 

Well, fear not!

I have put together a list of 17 EASY recipes make ahead appetizers that travel well and are sure to become a crowd favorite.

What are some things to keep in mind when planning appetizers to take to a party?

When planning appetizers to take to a party, keep food safety in mind. Choose an appetizer that can be kept hot or cold on the road, or served at room temperature in case an oven isn’t available to use at your hosts’ house.

You may want to consider freezing the appetizer and then thawing it out in a cooler as you travel. Additionally, make sure to take into account any dietary restrictions of your fellow party-goers.

17 Make Ahead Appetizers That Travel Well

From dips and spreads to finger foods and easy cold appetizers, I’ve got you covered. So the next time you are faced with bringing food to a party, take a look at this list of portable appetizers and choose something that fits your needs or any requests from the host.

Cold appetizers that travel well

Here are some easy cold appetizer recipes and finger foods that can simply be made, placed on a serving plate, covered in plastic wrap, and simply unwrapped and served at the location of the party.

1. Loaded Cheese Ball

This easy recipe features a combination of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, walnuts, and dried beef that’s shaped into a delicious ball of goodness and then topped with some green onions. Simply wrap it in some plastic wrap and bring it to a party. You can keep it in the fridge until ready to serve or simply serve at room temperature.

Make sure to also bring some crackers or fresh veggies for the guests to scoop up the cheese ball.

Recipe: Bitz & Giggles

Related: 17 Crazy Cool Ritz Cracker Treats

2. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo chicken dip is the perfect appetizer for game day, family get-togethers, or the holiday season! Shredded chicken is mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch mix dressing and seasoned with hot sauce, blue cheese, and green onions. It’s perfect with tortilla chips, crackers, or celery sticks.

Recipe: Saporito Kitchen

Related Post: 13 Mini Crockpot Dip Recipes

3. Fresh Corn Salsa

Recipe: I Heart Eating

Related Post: 30+ Make-ahead Freezable Appetizers

4. Beet Hummus

Beetroot dip, or hummus, is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy one of the earth’s finest vegetables. This vibrant pink dip is perfect for any party or gathering, and is sure to be a hit. Serve the creamy hummus with some pita chips, fresh veggies, and crackers, or use as a spread.

Recipe: The Salt and Sweet

Related: 50 Easy Make Ahead Appetizers for a Party

Pinwheel Wraps

Pinwheels are a great option for easy make-ahead appetizers as they taste great when served cold, can be easily transported, and are a bite-sized treat that are made with a flour tortilla that’s filled with a creamy filling, and always a total crowd-pleaser.

5. Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Roll Ups

Recipe: From Valerie’s Kitchen

Related: 17 Easy Party Food For a Crowd Cheap Recipes

6. Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Recipe: Will Cook for Smiles

7. Mediterranean Pinwheels

Recipe: Savor The Best

Related Post: 15 Easy No-Cook Finger Food Recipes

Skewers 

Need a last minute appetizer made from ingredients you most likely already have in your fridge? Skewers or kabobs are your best friend!

They are easy cold appetizers that can be made ahead and customized to your liking. Here are 3 skewers recipes to choose from:

8. Antipasto Skewers

Recipe: From Valeries Kitchen

Related: 17 Simple Cold Appetizers on a Stick

9. Salad Kabobs

Recipe: Sunglow Kitchen

Related: 45 Bite-Sized Appetizers for Your Party

10. Fresh Fruits on Skewers

Recipe: Spend With Pennies

Related: Light Appetizers To Serve Before A Heavy Meal

Make ahead room temperature appetizers:

These appetizers taste best when served at room temperature or slightly heated up for a few minutes if you have an oven available.

11. Rolo Stuffed Ritz Crackers

These caramel and chocolate stuffed rolo treats can be made up to 3 days in advance and are perfect for serving at room temperature.

Recipe: OhClary

12. Whipped Feta Dip

This flavorful dip is a quick 5-minute recipe that looks super elegant and is perfect for bringing to fancy events.

You only need 4 simple ingredients to make this unique dip recipe including feta cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon, and some grape or cherry tomatoes to top.

Serve with pita wedges, crostini, crackers, and veggie sticks. The whipped feta dip would also be perfect to be served as the star on a cheese board.

Recipe: Herbs & Flour

Related: 20+ Appetizers With Ground Beef

13. Taco Pinwheels

Delicious pinwheels stuffed with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese topped with your favorite taco toppings. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better than a regular taco, these taco roll-ups have come to blow your mind and impress all the party guests!

Recipe: Love From The Oven

Related: 27 Winter Finger Food Ideas for Parties

14. Rachel Rays Swiss Bacon Dip

This creamy dip is the perfect combination of savory and salty, with a bit of a kick from the horseradish!

If you want a dip recipe that will have your guests scraping the bowl for the last drop and asking you for the recipe, try this easy appetizer recipe!

Recipe: Get On My Plate

Related: Best Game Day Appetizers and Easy Finger Foods

15. Brie and Jam Puff Pastry Bites

Delicious finger food bites made with store-bought puff pastry. It features classic Christmas ingredients such as brie cheese, cranberry sauce, fig jam, and walnuts and would be perfect at serving at a holiday gathering.

Recipe: Simply Scrumptious

Related Post: 25 Christmas Finger Food Recipes

16. Garlic Knots

Little strips of dough that are knotted up and topped with a garlic parmesan cheese topping and baked to golden brown perfection. Serve with some tomato sauce for a satisfying snack.

Related: 25 Savoury Puff Pastry Appetizers

17. Sushi Bake Cupcakes

Indulge in Baked Sushi Cups, a unique twist on a classic favorite. These delicious sushi-inspired appetizers offer a delightful and innovative way to enjoy sushi at your next gathering or party. Plus, they are so easy to make ahead in large quantities thanks to the use of a muffin pan!

18. Crockpot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This portable appetizer is the easiest dip you could ever make and it’s super easy to transport in your crockpot. Simply dump all of the ingredients into your crockpot, set it to cook, and when ready, take the whole crock pot to the party and plug it in to keep warm. Serve with some pita chips or crackers and watch how everyone will want to try this delicious creamy and cheesy dip!

Easy Recipe for Spinach Artichoke Dip

19. Garlic Butter Steak Bites 

These delicious steak bites in a garlic butter sauce are the perfect easy manly appetizers for Game Day or any other party where there are lots of meat lovers.

They are super easy to transport and will be sure to be a huge crowd-pleaser!

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Appetizer Recipe

Related: 10 Easy Chinese Appetizers To Try

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15 Make Ahead Appetizers That Travel Well (Easy Recipes)

No one wants to show up to a party empty handed. These 15 easy make ahead appetizers that travel well will make you the MVP of any party! All of these recipes can be made in advance and are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

• Loaded Cheese Ball
• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Fresh Corn Salsa
• Beet Hummus
• Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Roll Ups
• Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Pinwheels
• Mediterranean Pinwheels
• Antipasto Skewers
• Salad Kabobs
• Fresh Fruits on Skewers
• Whipped Feta Dip
• Taco Pinwheels
• Rachel Rays Swiss Bacon Dip
• Brie and Jam Puff Pastry Bites
• Garlic Knots

Instructions

• Select your favorite recipe for portable appetizers from the article.
• Click on the link to get the full recipe.
• Cook and enjoy the delicious treats!

Nutrition Information:

The nutritional information is based on the Buffalo Chicken Dip (#2 recipe on the list)

And there you have it.

15 delicious & easy appetizers that travel well to bring to your next party!

What do you think are the best appetizers that travel well to bring to a party?

Let me know in the comments down below. 

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10 Easy Make-Ahead Appetizers

Melanie Fincher is a Birmingham, Alabama–based food writer who covers everything from cooking techniques to gadget reviews. She has nearly 7 years experience writing news and lifestyle content.

Make entertaining easy with these make-ahead appetizers that are perfect for any gathering. These easy appetizers require few ingredients and minimal prep work. The best part? They can be made ahead of time and served either cold or at room temperature. If you're bringing an appetizer to a potluck , you'll find many of the appetizers on this list travel well. From dipping sauces to snack mixes , here are 10 easy make-ahead appetizers that make entertaining simple.

Extra Easy Hummus

Unlike most hummus recipes which require tahini, this easy, five-ingredient recipe is tahini-free. Simply throw all the ingredients into a food processor or blender and you're good to go!

Vegetable Dill Dip

Elevate your store-bought vegetable tray with this homemade dill dip. Make it the night before and chill overnight before serving. "I have been making this dip for 50 years and there is nothing better," says reviewer B. Hamilton.

Bacon Cheddar Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are always an easy, make-ahead appetizer — this recipe takes the classic dish up a notch with bacon and cheddar cheese. "This was a good way to change up deviled eggs. The bacon added a great flavor," says reviewer Heather Pulley.

Guilt-Free Snack Mix

Looking for a party mix that's free of chocolate or salty ingredients? This simple recipe is made up of corn cereal, dried fruit, yogurt-covered raisins, and mixed nuts. Some reviewers suggest waiting to add the cereal until you're ready to serve, as it can absorb moisture from other ingredients.

Crab and Seafood Stuffed Shells

Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy seafood mixture that includes crabmeat and shrimp. Several reviewers suggest adding Old Bay seasoning for that classic coastal flavor.

Weaam's Baba Ghanouj

"Baba Ghanouj is a traditional Middle Eastern appetizer," says recipe creator Weamm Algassim. "My version of Baba Ghanouj uses pomegranate molasses instead of lemon, and crushed walnuts for texture. This can be made a day ahead. Bring to room temperature, drizzle with olive oil, and serve with pita bread."

Cranberry-Jalapeno Dip

The sweet-heat combination of cranberries and jalapeños makes for an unusual appetizer that guests will love. Refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors mingle, and serve with tortilla chips.

BBQ Snack Mix

Not only will this snack mix travel well, but it can be left out for hours at a time without going bad. Cheese-flavored crackers, pretzels, rice cereal, peanuts, barbeque seasoning, and ground paprika make up this tangy appetizer.

Macadamia Nut Pesto Hummus

Macadamia nuts and pesto bring a welcome change to standard hummus. Serve it up with pita, veggies, or chips.

Low-Fat Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip

You can throw together this last-minute appetizer in a matter of minutes. Low-fat plain Greek yogurt and ranch dressing mix are combined and chilled to make a simple veggie dipping sauce.

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Profile menu, our best portable appetizers.

Choose these easy, no-mess appetizers when you need to take a dish to the party and feel confident that it will be perfect when you arrive. The trick to bringing an appetizer to a party is making sure it arrives as beautiful, and as tasty, as when you left home. Save yourself the prepping, packaging, and hauling of food prep items and instead make a dish that travels beautifully. From basic dips to candied bacon, this collection of portable appetizer recipes has something for everyone.

Cheesy Sausage Roll-Ups

Cheesy Sausage Roll-Ups Recipe

These southwestern-style roll-ups require just 5 ingredients. 

Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon

Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon Recipe

Potato halves serve as the base of savory Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon appetizers.

Roquefort Cheesecake with Pear Preserves and Pecans

Roquefort Cheesecake with Pear Preserves and Pecans Recipe

Make this savory cheesecake and let it chill overnight, or longer. It’s easy to transport to a party on a platter since there’s nothing to spill or jiggle. When you get to the party, top the cheesecake with preserves and pecans.

Basil Aïoli with Crudités

Basil Aïoli with Crudités Recipe

Make a simple, herbed aioli for dipping crunchy veggies. We like baby carrots, endive, and asparagus, but you could use any fresh seasonal vegetables.

Chicken Salad Pitas

Chicken Salad Pitas Recipe

Pepper jelly adds a sweet-hot note to Chicken Salad Pitas. And you'll love the extra zing from lemon zest and ground red pepper that's been added to these appetizer sandwiches.

Cheesy Masa Pancakes with Pico de Gallo

Cheesy Masa Pancakes with Pico de Gallo Recipe

Masa harina adds delicate corn flavor to these bite-size pancakes. Look for it on the baking aisle.

Jalapeño Cheese Straws

Jalapeño Cheese Straws Recipe

Try this fancy-looking cheese straw recipe for a no-hassle appetizer you can take on the go. This subtly spicy recipe even impressed our Test Kitchen staff!

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons Recipe

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons combine nutty pecans and earthy rosemary to create a robust riff on the average Cheddar cheese straw.

Pepper Jack Grits Poppers

Pepper Jack Grits Poppers Recipe

Prep everything before you arrive, and then pop the peppers until the broiler for a few minutes just before serving.

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

Smoked salmon is always a special treat, and this creamy dip is a great way to feature its rich flavor. Since it’s a relatively thick dip, it’s easy to transport in a festive serving dish covered with plastic wrap. You can pre-chop some fresh veggies to serve with the dip, or just buy a package of breadsticks or crackers.

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Revive this party staple by setting out a bountiful platter of shrimp with three bowls of zingy new sauces: Avocado Cream, Tequila-Lime Cocktail Sauce, and Ginger Rémoulade.

Olive-Blue Moons

Olive-Blue Moons Recipe

Spanish olives and blue cheese bring distinct flavor to each bite of savory Olive-Blue Moons.

Vanilla-Spice Nuts

Vanilla-Spice Nuts Recipe

Add festive holiday flavor to toasted mixed nuts with vanilla, cinnamon, allspice and cardamom. Spiced nuts are close to being the perfect portable appetizer: make-ahead, no liquids to spill during transport, no reheating required, and an empty, non-messy bowl guaranteed at the end of the party.

Country Chicken Pâté

Country Chicken Pâté Recipe

You can't go wrong with an appetizer that's served at room temperature. This rich-and-creamy spread is best accompanied by a French bread baguette, coarse-grained mustard, and crunchy gherkins.

Mustard-Dill Tortellini Salad Skewers

Mustard-Dill Tortellini Salad Skewers Recipe

Crunched for time? Nix the skewers, and toss salad with 1/2 cup of dressing just before serving. Spoon into a pretty bowl, and garnish with a dill sprig.

Millionaire's Candied Bacon

Millionaire's Candied Bacon Recipe

Offer guests sweet-savory bites of Millionaire's Candied Bacon at your next party. You'll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Savory Spiced Shortbreads

Savory Spiced Shortbreads Recipe

These savory shortbread rounds will be a welcome addition to any party and are sturdy enough to travel. In addition to the batch you're bringing for guest to enjoy, package a few extra in a decorative box and give as a hostess gift along with a bottle of wine.

Smoked Salmon-Cardamom Spread

Smoked Salmon-Cardamom Spread Recipe

Even though this make-ahead spread is super easy, the smoked salmon adds a bit of sophistication. You can't go wrong when you show up with this tasty salmon appetizer, and you an be assured that you won't be taking any back home.

Crostini with Cucumber, Smoked Salmon, and Dill

Crostini with Cucumber, Smoked Salmon, and Dill Recipe

Top baked bread slices with cream cheese, cucumber, and smoked salmon to make this tasty appetizer.

Mini Bacon and Potato Frittatas

Mini Bacon and Potato Frittatas Recipe

Our savory little frittatas can be prepared up to a month in advance and frozen until ready to use, when they'll just need a quick reheat in your host's oven.

Baked Beef Empanadas

Baked Beef Empanadas Recipe

You have a choice with these to-go appetizers – serve them at room temperature or reheat at your destination. Guests will devour them either way.

Olive and Onion Tapenade

Olive and Onion Tapenade Recipe

Transform the party olive tray into a tasty, take-along tapenade. Serve this pungent, salty spread with baguette slices and crudités.

Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Wafers

Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Wafers Recipe

These savory, buttery cheese wafers have just a touch of sweetness from the dried cranberries and are perfect for a holiday cocktail buffet. You can transport and serve them in a festive tin or put them in a heavy-duty plastic bag and arrange on a platter when you get to the party.

Garlicky Spinach Dip with Hearts of Palm

Garlicky Spinach Dip with Hearts of Palm Recipe

This thick, hearty dip is definitely travel worthy. If your trip is under 15 minutes, go ahead and bake it before you leave the house and it'll be fine when you arrive.

Cheese Olivettes

Cheese Olivettes Recipe

Alice describes these little bites as cheese straws with an olive stuffed inside. They were a special treat reserved for holidays and for whenever her parents hosted the supper club in their Birmingham, Alabama, home.

Cranberry-Jalapeño Salsa

Cranberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe

Offer a festive alternative to tomato salsa during the holidays with this make-ahead salsa featuring fresh cranberries and jalapeño pepper. You can make the salsa up to a month ahead and freeze. When it’s time to take it to the party, just thaw, spoon into a serving bowl, and bring along a bag of tortilla chips.

Chipotle Shrimp Cups

Chipotle Shrimp Cups Recipe

The components of this deceptively easy appetizer can be prepared the night before. Then, just assemble and heat before you hit the road or when you arrive at your destination.

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Cranberry jelly is the secret to these sweet and savory BBQ meatballs.

Artichoke and Fennel Caponata

Artichoke and Fennel Caponata Recipe

Because this chunky vegetable spread can be served at room temperature or chilled, it's a great recipe to take to a party. Serve with sturdy crackers, pita chips, or toasted bread slices.

Cheese Straws

Cheese Straws Recipe

Make several batches of these easy cheese straws before the holiday season gets started, and freeze them in heavy-duty zip-lock plastic bags. When you need something to take to a party, just take some out of the freeze about 30 minutes before you leave. Take them to the party in the bag and arrange them on a platter or in julep cups after you arrive.

Green Pea Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto

Green Pea Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto Recipe

Offering a bright pop of color and requiring next to no prep time, these tasty little toasts are equally ideal for special spring gatherings and casual afternoon snacking. You can assemble them up to 45 minutes before serving and they won't sog out.

Parmesan and Herb Cheese Puffs

Parmesan and Herb Cheese Puffs Recipe

These rich pastry bites can be baked right from the freezer so your guests can eat them warm.

Roasted Carrot Platter

Roasted Carrot Platter Recipe

Scoop up these spiced carrots and seasoned yogurt with freshly toasted pita chips.

Chilled Mussels with Saffron Mayo

Chilled Mussels with Saffron Mayo Recipe

A spicy Provençal sauce called rouille inspired the mayo for this easy, elegant platter; you'll have enough extra for sandwiches.

Bacon Baklava

Bacon Baklava Recipe

Cleta Burden of Porterville, California, took traditional baklava and added everybody's favorite ingredient. The result: outrageous and addictive.

Field Pea-and-Radish Crostini

Field Pea-and-Radish Crostini Recipe

Combine ricotta, lemon zest, and black pepper and spread the ricotta mixture over each toast; top evenly with the pea mixture and serve.

Chicken Bites with Tomato Mint Salsa

Chicken Bites with Tomato Mint Salsa Recipe

If gluten-free guests are on your invite list, make this mellow dunking salsa with a flour-free brand of chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, such as La Costeña.

Bacon-Fig Tassies

Bacon-Fig Tassies Recipe

Pinched for time? Swap the dough for frozen mini-phyllo pastry shells.

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans Recipe

Make these a few days ahead, and chill in an airtight container.

Crispy Potato Chips

Crispy Potato Chips Recipe

Slice potatoes as thin as possible.

Fried Hominy

Fried Hominy Recipe

Dangerously delicious, this is the new popcorn for tree trimming--if you don't eat it all first.

Gumbo Rice Fritters

Gumbo Rice Fritters Recipe

You can make the rice balls two weeks ahead and freeze. Bread and fry straight from the freezer.

Garlic, Avocado, and Tomato Toast

Garlic, Avocado, and Tomato Toast Recipe

Quick, simple, and pulling in at under ten ingredients makes these toasts a great appetizer option.

Marinated Olives and Almonds

Marinated Olives and Almonds Recipe

A big batch of these antipasti will last in the refrigerator up to a week. It's the perfect snack to serve unexpected holiday company. For extra flavor, use smoked almonds.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

This fresh, colorful swap for creamy shrimp dip was inspired by reader Carolyn Coleman.

Sweet Pea Crostini with Ricotta

Sweet Pea Crostini with Ricotta Recipe

Impress your company with this easy-to-prepare appetizer. Making your own ricotta is incredibly simple and doesn't require special equipment.

Orange-Basil Baked Brie

Orange-Basil Baked Brie Recipe

Serve on a pretty cutting board with a cheese knife, and let guests cut their own portions.

Split Pea Mini Pancakes with Mushroom Relish

Split Pea Mini Pancakes with Mushroom Relish Recipe

Garnish these festive bites with cilantro. They're best served hot but are also good at room temperature.

Sweet Potato Tartlets

Sweet Potato Tartlets Recipe

These festive tarts are the perfect sweet treat for grazing guests. You can make them up to a day ahead, and store, covered, in the fridge.

Shrimp-and-Andouille Gumbo Dip

Shrimp-and-Andouille Gumbo Dip Recipe

Use sliced veggies or bread sticks with this popular and tasty dip.

Wine-Spiked Cranberry Cheese Log

Wine-Spiked Cranberry Cheese Log Recipe

Use this succulent, syrupy fruit as a topping for pound cake or ice cream. You can also spoon it over a softened log of goat cheese instead of cream cheese.

Veggie Spring Rolls with Cashew-Ginger Dipping Sauce

Veggie Spring Rolls with Cashew-Ginger Dipping Sauce Recipe

Rice paper wrappers hold these slim-cut veggies together for a bright springtime treat.

Chicken Phyllo Turnovers

Chicken Phyllo Turnovers Recipe

This appetizer is based on bisteeya, a traditional Moroccan pastry that pairs savory, spiced meat and flaky phyllo with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar. Make ahead: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month; bake frozen, unthawed pastries 5 additional minutes or until browned.

Melon, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Skewers

Melon, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Skewers Recipe

Put out half of the skewers, and keep the remaining chilled until ready to serve. Everyone loves a good melon salad , so we took that idea and "skewer-ed" it. Salty cured ham meets creamy, fresh melon for the ultimate savory/sweet combination. With the addition of smooth mozzarella cheese, these skewers are texturally satisfying and not shy on flavor. Your guests will absolutley the easiness and accessibility of these skewers, and you'd be surprised at how impressed they'll be.

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers Recipe

There's nothing better than a simple appetizer. That is until you try this two-ingredient dish. Wrap crispy bacon around a buttery cracker for ultimate bite.

Spicy, Barely Sweet Supercrunch Granola

Spicy, Barely Sweet Supercrunch Granola Recipe

Our supremely crunchy, irresistible granola almost feels more like party mix (but still contains all those great whole grains). It stores well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.

Greek Crab Dip

Greek Crab Dip Recipe

With the salty richness of feta cheese and brightness from fresh lemon juice and herbs, this is an incredible twist on a classic creamy crab dip. Lump crab meat gives the dip an added touch of decadence, but it could also be made with less-expensive claw meat. Served with warm, crusty baguette slices this savory crab dip is the perfect “something different” to bring to your next potluck or party.

Flamin' Hot Cheetos Stuffed Jalapeños

Flamin' Hot Cheetos Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe

What do you get when you cross the most virally popular snack on the chip aisle with one of the most beloved appetizers of all time? Obviously, the hottest snacketizer around.

Touchdown Pinwheels

Touchdown Pinwheels Recipe

There is a whole lot of flavor wrapped up in these colorful little pinwheels. You can serve them cold as appetizers or a fun snack.

Tomato-Feta Bites

Tomato-Feta Bites Recipe

Start with frozen puff pastry to make these 6-ingredient Mediterranean-style appetizers featuring the savory goodness of tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

Boysenberry Wine Compote with Goat Cheese and Basil

Boysenberry Wine Compote with Goat Cheese and Basil Recipe

Here's one for your summer-party recipe stash. Wine and black pepper make the compote sophisticated, and you can put the whole thing together in minutes--for guests to serve themselves.

Sweet Pea and Avocado Dip with Baked Pita Chips

Sweet Pea and Avocado Dip with Baked Pita Chips Recipe

Incorporating green peas into this tasty summer snack not only reduces the amount of fat but also adds sweetness and further brightens the green color.

Mini Caprese Bites

Mini Caprese Bites Recipe

Serve these mini tomato and mozzarella skewers in individual glasses as an appetizer at a seated dinner party, or arrange on a platter for your buffet. Fresh mozzarella bites, tomatoes, basil, and balsomic join forces for a summery, adorable appetizers that will have your guests swooning. Kids love the presentation, and the skewers allow for easy, mess-free eating. Caprese is always a party showstopper, and these cute mini-skewer ideas are no exception.

Crab Cake Hush Puppies

Crab Cake Hush Puppies Recipe

Serve these Crab Cake Hush Puppies with your favorite rémoulade or cocktail sauce for tasty appetizers . Hush puppies, a Southern classic made by deep-frying a cornmeal batter gets a seafood makeover. Served with a creamy, thick dipping sauce, these salty critters are a great option for a potluck meal or an appetizer that serves to impress. Freeze any leftovers and defrost up to 3 months later.

Cranberry-Goat Cheese Canapés

Cranberry-Goat Cheese Canapés Recipe

Make Ahead: Stir together the cranberry mixture up to 3 days ahead of time. Assemble the canapés the day of your party.

Traditional Hummus

Traditional Hummus Recipe

When you take a dip to a party, it's a good idea to take a thick dip that's not likely to slosh out of the dish during transport. A creamy, garlicky bean dip like this one is ideal, especially since it's supposed to stand at room temperature about 30 minutes before serving. Just bring along a bag of pita chips for dippers.

Black-Eyed Pea Pâté

Black-Eyed Pea Pâté Recipe

A touch of salty country ham and shiitake mushrooms adds deep flavor to this earthy, creamy Southern spread. Serve with crostini.

Curried Crab Spread

Curried Crab Spread Recipe

This tangy seafood spread with crostini is an all-around schedule-saver–you can prepare it up to two days in advance of your party and whisk it right out the door. To save even more time, serve with crackers instead of baking the bread slices for the crostini.

Asparagus-Blue Cheese Canapés

Asparagus-Blue Cheese Canapés Recipe

Not a blue cheese fan? Use any soft, crumbly cheese you like atop these bite-sized toast squares.

Asian-Spiced Pecans

Asian-Spiced Pecans Recipe

Freeze a batch of these at the start of the holiday season, and you'll always have finger food ready to go – they'll keep in your freezer for up to a month. For easy transport, just put them in a glass jar and take an extra one to leave as gift for your host.

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40 Make-Ahead Appetizers For A No-Stress Party

We love an overachiever.

One of our favorite foolproof appetizers to keep your crowd happy? Dips . We love them so much, and we're always happy to have leftovers to keep on dipping, for spreading on a sandwich or even stuffing into chicken . Our favorites (like hummus , sour cream and onion dip , and Crockpot spinach and artichoke dip ) are also perfect to store until it's party time, in addition to being super-easy to make in large batches too. And if you have a sweet-tooth, you'll really love digging into our recipes for cannoli chips and dip and pumpkin pie dip .

In our kitchens, we have a few secret tools we like to bust out around party o'clock: our slow-cookers and air-fryers . They make so many of our top appetizers a breeze to put together, often just requiring a few minutes of prep before we can sneak out of the kitchen to enjoy our company. Those powerhouses will certainly earn their spot on the counter once you make our recipes for Crockpot grape jelly meatballs , air-fryer crunchy chili-spiced chickpeas , and slow-cooker Buffalo ranch wings . We pinky promise.

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Part retro , part cult classic, it’s hard to go wrong with a cheese ball . This festive pumpkin rendition may not contain any actual pumpkin , but it’s full of fresh herbs, minced jalapeño, and of course, plenty of cheese. Make a cheeseboard featuring one for the easiest, low-key healthy weeknight meal that'll still feel a little festive this holiday season. Get the Pumpkin Cheese Ball recipe .

Reuben Pickle Bites

Here at Delish, we’re all about a good reuben sandwich . Creamy dressing, corned beef , Swiss cheese… what’s not to love? Pair all those delicious ingredients between pickle chips for the the perfect bite-size appetizer (and they come together SO fast). Get the Reuben Pickle Bites recipe .

Pub Beer Cheese

When we’re looking for a real crowd-pleasing recipe, we always trust in beer cheese. We've done it in a skillet with pretzel dog beer cheese dip , over cheesy beer brats , on beer cheese sliders , and even folded it into beer cheese macaroni for the most genius comfort food ever. There's one way we had never done it: COLD. 😲 Get the Pub Beer Cheese recipe .

Sour Cream & Onion Dip

Letting the onions caramelize properly is key to the flavor of this dip . Going low and slow allows them to develop color while breaking down and becoming sweet and jammy. Stir them into this easy dip with some chives, and you have a simple appetizer that's crazy addicting. It will stay good in the fridge for a few days, so it's great to make ahead of time. Get the Sour Cream & Onion Dip recipe .

Cheese Straws

Crunchy, flaky, and cheesy. What's not to love? These cheese straws are studded with cheddar, green onions, and sesame seeds for the most flavor-packed cheese straws we've ever had. Using store-bought puff pastry makes them extremely easy to pull together for a party! Get the Cheese Straws recipe .

Slow-Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs

Grape jelly meatballs might not sound like an ideal combo, but trust us, it is! The sweet jelly mixed with smoky BBQ sauce is a match made in heaven. We added some sriracha to give it a bit of a kick.

Get the Slow-Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs recipe .

Air Fryer Crunchy Chili-Spiced Chickpeas

Your air fryer is the perfect device for making perfectly crispy chickpeas, since it both removes moisture from the legumes without adding in fat. Here, they're seasoned with chili powder for a deeply savory, slightly spicy snack. The spices are super-easy to mix up in future batches. Swap in za'atar and sprinkle the chickpeas over creamy hummus or try curry powder instead and serve the chickpeas over Greek yogurt with cilantro and pickled red onions .

Get the Air Fryer Crunchy Chili-Spiced Chickpeas recipe .

Brown Butter Radish Crostini

We think crunchy, peppery red radishes are underrated, so we decided to give them the spotlight in this fresh crostini. How to balance that strong peppery flavor? Queue sweet, caramelized brown butter, whipped into an unctuous cloud: the perfect foil for paper-thin radish rounds. While it may sound fancy, it all comes together in under 30 minutes for an app to impress. Get the Brown Butter Radish Crostini recipe .

Ultimate Holiday Cheese Board

A cheese board is one of the best appetizers to serve at a holiday gathering because it's easy to execute, shareable, and totally customizable. What's better than a gorgeous wooden board piled high with a variety of high-quality cheeses, cured meats, silky spreads (like fig jam !), nuts, fruit, and more? Get the Ultimate Holiday Cheese Board recipe .

Harissa Deviled Eggs

Give your classic deviled eggs a spicy kick with store-bought harissa (Tunisian chili pepper paste) and crispy fried shallots. Tip: Because spice level can vary brand to brand with harissa, start small and build up to control the heat! Get the Harissa Deviled Eggs recipe .

Nothing screams summer quite like bruschetta. Start by rubbing the toasted bread with garlic for an extra kick of flavor, then top them with simple marinated tomatoes for the ultimate summer snack.

Get the Bruschetta recipe .

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is a classic, and it couldn't be easier. We've updated this party standby with a zesty homemade sauce that packs a flavorful punch thanks to ketchup, chili sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. The secret ingredient? A small amount of celery salt ties it all together. Get the Shrimp Cocktail recipe .

Greek Feta Dip

Loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta, this dip has plenty of the flavors of a Greek salad, plus a smooth, fluffy consistency thanks for yogurt, cream cheese, and feta. Full disclaimer: This recipe makes a lot of dip and can easily be halved (but we've never had a problem demolishing it). Get the Greek Feta Dip recipe .

Jalapeño Cheese Crisps

What's better than a cripsy, cheesy, bacon-y bite with a bit of heat? Ready in 25 minutes (with only four ingredients!), this simple app begs to be doubled—it'll go fast, trust us.

Get the Jalapeño Cheese Crisps recipe .

Creamy Hummus

Hummus is a Middle Eastern dish made of chickpeas and tahini. We love adding plenty of garlic or roasted red peppers and other spices (like everything bagel seasoning ) for added flavor. Carrots and cucumber spears make a crisp, refreshing snack, especially when you pair them with a dip that can withstand the heat, like hummus.

Get the Creamy Garlic Hummus recipe .

Antipasto Bites

Fresh tortellini makes this the hearty party appetizer of our dreams. If you're not a fan of olives, pepperoncini peppers would be a delicious substitute!

Get the Antipasto Bites recipe .

BLT Egglets

It's hard not to crack a smile when we see a plate of these adorably bite-sized apps . We kept these simple, but you could definitely jazz them up if you want. Try swapping out romaine for mixed greens or arugula, or adding different vegetables (we think a perfect little round of sautéed zucchini would be nice). Want to keep this completely vegetarian? Try one of our bacon dupes, like our sweet potato bacon or eggplant bacon .

Get the BLT Egglets recipe .

Sausage Balls

Many of you might be thinking: "Wait, what even is a sausage ball?!" The answer: addictive bites of cooked pork sausage , cheddar, and Bisquick that will be the most popular appetizer at your next get-together. Get the Sausage Balls recipe .

Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip

If spinach artichoke dip is one of those things you get really excited about a party but you often feel like it takes too much effort to make at home, this slow-cooker version is for you! Get the Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip recipe .

Slow-Cooker Buffalo Ranch Wings

Any true sports fan knows that Game Day isn't complete without Buffalo ranch something . These are doused in ranch seasoning and sprinkled with fresh chives for extra flavor. Get the Slow-Cooker Buffalo Ranch Chicken Wings recipe .

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What do you do when you’re attending a party that’s hours away and you’re tasked with bringing an appetizer? (A.K.A. It has to be something that travels well!)

Well, that’s exactly what one studio audience member wanted to know -- and Rach knew just the answer (three, in fact!).

"That wouldn’t be a problem if you had a Rachael Ray food transport bag ," Rach said with a laugh before she ran through three super easy and delicious recipe options.

"Antipasto is my go-to," Rach says. "I always bring the fixings for an antipasto, and then when I get there, I just dump them out of buckets."

Easy enough!

Get Rach's gorgeous antipasto platter recipe here !

NO-COOK TIERED CHEESE, PESTO AND SUN-DRIED TOMATO BALL

No time to cook? No problem!

Line a bowl with plastic wrap and layer it with sun-dried tomatoes, store-bought or homemade pesto and herb goat cheese.

Let it set in the fridge for at least an hour or up to one day.

When you arrive at the party, uncover it, flip the bowl over onto a plate, peel off the plastic wrap off, and voila -- you’ll have a tiered masterpiece!

Hear Rach walk you through the process in the video above or follow this Herbed Cheese Party Snack recipe !

BAKED RICOTTA CHEESE AND GRAPES

Now, this is IMPRESSIVE.

Mix fresh ricotta cheese with parmesan, garlic, olive oil and an egg. Bake it any form (like a bundt!) until brown.

When it’s done, flip it over onto a cutting board, fill the bundt hole with baked grapes (Rach bakes hers with olive oil, salt and pepper) and drizzle the finished product with balsamic vinegar!

Rach also suggests surrounding the star of the show with Italian cheeses, sliced salami, olives and a water glass with breadsticks. Yum-o!

TRY THIS: Baked Ricotta with Pistachios (Spoiler: It’s super similar!)

More to Watch, Cook + Read

The best restaurants—chosen by our staff, rach's super-cheesy baked rigatoni with eggplant + hot coppa ham, 5 home gadgets that’ll make life easier, healthy air fryer chicken parm with quinoa crust, doctor says to stay away from juice cleanses—here's why, one-pot chicken dinner for less than $2 a plate, you might like.

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18 Easy, Portable Recipes For A Tailgate On The Road

No matter how well your team plays, having these recipes at your tailgate spread is sure to score.

Greg Dupree; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely; Food Stylist: Melissa Gray

Although it doesn't hurt, you don't need a fancy rig to pull off a great tailgate on the road. All it takes is a little advance planning, careful packing, and recipes that travel well or that can be cooked on-site. When transporting food to a game, always keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Transport cold dishes like coleslaw or potato salad in an ice-packed cooler serve them by nesting the serving bowls inside larger bowls of ice. Keep hot foods likes baked beans or chicken wings hot by transporting them in a slow cooker (if you have access to an outlet). Also be sure to round out your menu with a few non-perishable snacks that don't require refrigeration like pretzels, chips, snack mixes, and nuts. No matter how well your team plays, your tailgate spread is sure to score.

Copycat Publix Buffalo Chicken Dip

Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

We all know and love the Publix buffalo chicken dip, and now you can make this tailgate classic on your own. This recipe is even better than store bought and easy to make for a true crowd pleaser.

Dry-Rubbed Smoked Chicken Wings

Bringing your smoker to the party? Try these incredible dry-rubbed chicken wings from our barbecue cookbook, South's Best Butts . The recipe, from Butts To Go in Pell City, Alabama are coated with a Memphis-style dry rub and cooked low and slow for the most tender, finger-licking results.

Pimiento Cheese Stuffed Pepper

Pimiento cheese is a true Southern staple, and these stuffed peppers and the perfect bold bite for any tailgate. Quick to make and delicious to eat, these snacks are the best small snack for a long day. You'll be popping them in your mouth as you take on challengers at the cornhole board .

Hasselback Sausage Bites

Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster

Everything about these sausage bites is made for the road: The sausage can stay warm and not loose any texture, and the dipping sauce is even better after sitting a while. Back these in an aluminum foil container, and they'll be warm and ready when you get to the party.

Pepper Sauce Watermelon Wedges

This twist on the salt and watermelon trick makes for a unique and addicting snack that is the perfect vinegary bite

Smoky Snack Mix

This recipe can be doubled or tripled easily, which we highly recommend. Don't skip the white Cheddar cheese crackers—their buttery richness makes them the MVP of this hard-to-resist mix. Use paper cones to make this snack mix easier to grab and enjoy.

Mini Muffulettas

These sandwiches are small but they're stuffed with layers of cheese, cold cut, and pickled vegetables. Prepare the muffulettas the day before the game, store in zip-top plastic freezer bags, and refrigerate overnight.

Texas Caviar

We love this party staple because it can be served cold or at room temperature and as a side dish or a dip with tortilla chips.

Buffalo Chicken Bites

You just might replace your usual chicken wing recipe with these easy-to-eat boneless chicken bites that are sure to disappear long before the big game.

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers

You might want to double this recipe, because these easy-to-take-along bow tie crackers won't last long at any tailgate.

Basic Deviled Eggs

There's no occasion that doesn't get tastier when a tray of deviled eggs is involved. This classic take will wow your tailgate crowd.

Sweet-and-Salty Snack Mix

Whether your tailgate starts at the crack of dawn or lingers into late afternoon, this snack mix will satisfy everyone's craving.

Georgia-Style Boiled Peanuts

Nothing tastes better with a cooler of cold beer than a classic boiled peanut. Make them in a slow cooker and haul it over to the tailgate to keep the boiled peanuts warm all day.

Stove-Top Bacon Popcorn

Get creative with your popcorn game. Bacon? And popcorn? It doesn't get much better than that. Wrap your popcorn in snackable-sized paper. Extra points if it's coordinated with your team's colors.

Ham-and-Cheese Sliders

You know a tailgate dish is going to be a hit when Hawaiian rolls are involved. These sliders are perfect to please a crowd!

All-Time Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies

Round out your spread with a chocolate chip cookie that's earned the right to be called the best of the best.

Smoked-Tomato Salsa

With this flavorful dip, your tailgate buddies will want to know what brand of salsa they're snacking on. Get ready for their reactions when you say it's homemade.

Salted Caramel Popcorn Bars

Easy to execute and big on flavor, these popcorn bars combining salty and sweet to satisfy all of your pre-game cravings in one fell swoop.

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19 Make-Ahead Appetizer Recipes for Fuss-Free Hosting

The last thing any host wants to do is make snacks as guests arrive—these will help you get ready with time to spare.

Rebecca is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

Make-ahead appetizers are a host's best friend. Whether you're planning a casual backyard cookout or throwing an elegant watch party for the Oscars, offering a platter of appetizers and a signature cocktail are two surefire ways to get everyone in the mood to celebrate. 

To pull off a successful gathering that everyone will enjoy, it pays to think like a caterer—draw up a game plan, list all of the dishes, and then break it down into what can be made ahead of time and when. This idea can translate well to the home cook; if you aren't sure what can made and when, look to these recipes, which will provide the make-ahead info you'll need to plan successfully.

Our collection features recipes that can be made to varying degrees of completion a day or two before and still be just as good—sometimes even better— than the day they were made. As you choose your make-ahead appetizers, remember that balance is key: It's best to pick a couple of cold or room-temperature dishes that can be made entirely in advance and one or two hot dishes that will require a little assembly at the last minute.

Mixed Olive Tapenade

Dress a selection of olives up for the party by heating them with anchovies and capers (two of our favorite powerhouse ingredients). This mix takes moments to make (ahead of time) and benefits from time spent chilling in the refrigerator—in fact, you can put it together up to a week before serving.

Rich Deviled Eggs

Perhaps the most classic appetizer of them all? Deviled eggs must be made ahead, and they always go fast. This handy recipe offers a classic, rich deviled egg and three variations: smoked trout, spiced hummus, and pesto.

Cheese Ball

For a crowd-pleasing retro appetizer, nothing beats a cheese ball. It needs time to chill and set up in the refrigerator, so we like to make ours a day ahead.

Creamy Corn-and-Onion Dip

Just when you think a homemade French onion dip couldn't get any better, this recipe goes and adds sweet summer corn to the mix. Lightened up with Greek yogurt instead of the standard sour cream, it's a great party starter and can be made up to three days in advance.

No-Knead Tomato Focaccia

Show some homespun hospitality by making this easy no-knead focaccia recipe that is studded with a flavorful topping of cherry tomatoes, garlic, and thyme. Bake it the night before or the morning of and serve squares alongside good olive oil and balsamic vinegar .

Spanish Chorizo Balls

These little cocktail meatballs can be prepared the day before and can either be served at room temperature or warmed up in a slow cooker. Complete the tapas theme with a hunk of manchego cheese, toasted almonds, and slices of crusty bread.

Mushroom and Goat Cheese Purses

A darling appetizer, these little mushroom purses are easier to pick up and handle than traditional stuffed mushrooms, thanks to their phyllo crust casing. Do yourself a favor and make the mushroom filling the day before. The day of, just fill, form, and bake.

Yogurt Dip With Crudites and Chips

Perfect for a late spring garden party, this no-cook, crowd-pleasing yogurt-based dip is served with colorful, crunchy vegetables that will appeal to children and grown-ups alike.

Beet Muhammara

Let this smooth, spreadable dip sit in the fridge for a day or two to meld the flavors together, and serve it next to a log of goat cheese and crackers or your favorite crudités.

Juniper-and-Gin Gravlax

Gravlax is a fun make-ahead recipe and pretty low-maintenance, too. A few days before the party, you'll rub the salmon with a briny, salt-based blend of aromatics and let it chill in the fridge. As it cures, the fish will become firmer and easier to slice into thin pieces.

Homemade Cheddar-and-Gruyere Crackers

The dough for these easy slice-and-bake crackers can be made the day before or kept in the freezer for up to a month. Savory and rich, they are a particularly great snack to serve while the bubbly is being poured.

Artichoke Dip With Fontina

Unbaked, this dip can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw completely before baking for warm, cheesy goodness on demand.

Polenta Squares With Prosciutto

These one-bite polenta squares are studded with prosciutto and garlic and topped with melty, semi-soft taleggio cheese before being broiled. Everything but the broiling can be done the day before, so this impressive app couldn't be easier to execute.

Greek Layer Dip

Layer easy-to-prep ingredients like chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and crumbled feta on top of a garlicky white bean purée, and this healthy Mediterranean dip is ready to be served with a bowl of pita chips. Of course, you can always have it waiting for you in the fridge for up to a day in advance, too.

Italian Seafood Salad

This entire recipe can be prepared a day in advance, so you don't even have to think about handling raw seafood right before the party is about to start. A bright and delicious salad, this recipe makes a classy opener to all kinds of occasions, from a New Year's Eve party to a late-summer soirée.

Grilled Kofta Kebabs

For these koftas, you are better off assembling the ground meat mixture the day prior, that way all that is left to do before the guests arrive is form them into patties and straight to the grill.

Smoked Trout Pate on Toasted Baguette

Always the crowd-pleaser, this smoked fish dip is enhanced with tangy cream cheese, shallot, lemon juice, and fresh chives. It will also please the cook to know that it can be made up to two days ahead.

Jalapeno Corn Muffins

Perfect on their own or alongside some delicious butter, these fun-size savory cornmeal cakes can be made an hour or so before guests arrive. Simply hold them in a warm oven to keep the signature texture.

Smoked Salmon Dip With Bagel Chips

For a brunch gathering, serve a smoked salmon dip with bagel chips that are truly the epitome of a breakfast classic. With a kick of horseradish, our dip packs all the flavors of your favorite New York deli into one bite.

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50 Easy Appetizers That Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting cocktails for your friends or throwing an all-out dinner party, these small bites are sure to impress.

Easy Appetizer Recipes That Will Impress

Appetizers may be small, but they often make the biggest impression. Whether you choose beautifully topped bruschetta , the always-popular pigs in a blanket or an array of party-worthy dips , the colorful presentation and perfectly paired flavors (because you’re serving wine or cocktails too, right?) are guaranteed to keep your guests coming back for more. Just take these show-stopping bites, for example. Valerie creates a sophisticated appetizer by layering roast beef, horseradish cream and chives into pillowy mini Yorkshire puddings. It sounds (and looks!) fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.

More photos after this Ad

Party Meatballs

The best thing about these meatballs, besides the flavor of course, is that you can make them ahead of time, bake them and then pop them in the freezer. They'll thaw as they simmer away in the sauce.

Clam dip is one of those old-timey New England dishes that is popular up and down the coast, often made for family gatherings like barbecues or holidays. Every New Englander who knows the dip probably has an opinion on whether it should be made with cream cheese or sour cream (or both), and which mix-ins should be added. This version is classic and simple, made from cream cheese, canned clams (which you can use straight from the can, no cooking necessary), scallions, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Feel free to serve it with your favorite dippers, whether those are potato chips, sliced vegetables or even Fritos.

Perfect Charcuterie Board

A beautiful charcuterie board is a statement piece and a time saver, since it typically requires no cooking. The word "charcuterie" refers to cold cooked, cured or smoked meats, and it’s also the name of the French stores in which they are sold. So, in the most official sense, a traditional charcuterie board is just a meat platter. These days, charcuterie boards have risen to a revered status in the world of snacks and appetizers, with most boards incorporating cheese, fresh and dried fruit, nuts, pickles and other treats. Aim for contrasting and complementary tastes and textures when choosing pairings and experiment with flavor combinations: sharp cheeses such as asiago or Roquefort drizzled with honey or paired with jam, dry, salty crystallized cheeses such as Parmesan or Pecorino paired with fatty cuts of meat like soppressata or bresaola, crunchy nuts or crackers with gooey triple-cream or burrata and piquant condiments such as mustard and pickles to cut through the richness of salami or pâté.

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22+ BEST Cold Appetizers for Entertaining

If you’re in need of a cold appetizer recipe, you’ve come to the right place. Today I’m sharing a collection of my favorite cold appetizers for entertaining. This amazing list is designed for delicious entertaining and may just become your new go-to for cold appetizer choices.

Yes, my friends, you know how much I love appetizer recipes here on Inspired by Charm. I recently had someone reach out asking for some cold appetizer recipe ideas. After sharing the list with them, I thought that others might benefit from it as well.

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

That’s why I rounded up this list of my favorite cold appetizers.

I’ve covered everything from dips to cheeseballs, even bite-sized treats, and everything in-between. It’s a pretty extensive collection and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you.

I hope you find this list helpful and discover a few new favorite treats along the way.

Appetizer Dips

Italian Hoagie Dip

All the ingredients and flavors you love about an Italian hoagie (submarine sandwich) have come together in this unique Italian Hoagie Dip . You’re going to be looking for an excuse to try this tasty dip.

Really Good Chip Dip

This Really Good Chip Dip is a delicious and fresh alternative to store-bought dip. In under 10 minutes, you can stir up a flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with chips as well as veggies!

Really Good Veggie Dip

This vegetable dip is my favorite dip for vegetables ! It’s loaded with flavor and you can whip it up in a matter of minutes. I think you’re going to love it as much as I do!

Loaded Veggie Ranch Dip

This Loaded Veggie Ranch Dip will become your new go-to party appetizer recipe . It’s loaded with corn, peppers, cream cheese, sour cream, ranch, and a few other goodies, so as you might guess, it’s really good! Also, it’s quick to make and full of great flavor.

This layered BLT Dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Layered with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and cheese, this appetizer recipe brings together the classic flavors everyone loves.

Jalapeno Dip

This Jalapeño Dip comes together with just a few ingredients. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor . By adding more or less pith and seeds from the jalapeños, you determine the heat. No matter how you make it, you and your guests will love this cold appetizer recipe.

Out-of-this-World Corn Dip

Of all the recipes on IBC, this Out-of-this-World Corn Dip is one I make multiple times a year. It makes a generous portion and is a total crowd-pleaser . I’m confident you’ll love it, too.

Want more delicious dip recipes? I’ve got ’em! Check out my recipe collection with over 20+ delicious dip recipes .

The Best Veggie Pizza Dip

One of your favorite appetizers is now a dip! Classic Veggie Pizza has a new look but still has all the delicious flavor you’ve come to love. Made with cream cheese, ranch, and lots of crisp veggies, this veggie Pizza Dip is so easy to make and will become an instant crowd-pleaser.

Bite-Sized Nibbles

Olive Wreath

This Olive Wreath is a delicious and beautiful appetizer idea. I made mine for the holiday season, but you can serve it any time of the year. This cold appetizer can be assembled in minutes, and it adds a tasty and colorful touch to any party spread.

If you ever need a beautiful, flavor-packed, all-occasion appetizer, look no further than crostini. In this post, I’ve shared three delicious crostini recipes that you can make for your next celebration.

Avocado Pesto BLT Bites

I decided to take one of my favorite sandwiches, the classic BLT, to the next level by turning it into a delicious cold appetizer recip e. The avocado pesto takes these over the top.

Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Roll-ups

Pretty, flavorful, and easy are three things I want in hors d’ oeuvres ideas, and this recipe checks off each of those boxes. To make these pinwheels , simply spread a mixture of cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic on a flour tortilla, add some fresh basil leaves, and then tightly roll up the tortilla.

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If roll-ups / pinwheel are one of your favorite cold appetizers, you’re in luck because I have an entire roll-up recipe collection dedicated to this tasty spiral bites.

Really Good Seasoned Pretzels

These Really Good Seasoned Pretzels (also known as Missy’s Seasoned Pretzels) are loaded with a subtly spicy, bold flavor, and delicious crunch. This recipe will quickly become your new favorite way to make seasoned pretzels.

Prosciutto and Melon Bites

An Italian favorite, these  Prosciutto and Melon Bites are an easy and delicious cold appetizer recipe perfect for summer entertaining or afternoon snack. This is a classic combination of salty and sweet that will never go out of style. In addition, a drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe to whole new level. 

Deviled Eggs with Bacon

Want to take deviled eggs to the next level? I’m showing you how to make The Best Deviled Eggs with Bacon . This classic appetizer recipe received a flavorful upgrade with the help of crispy bacon. What’s not to love?

Cheese-Inspired Recipes

Marinated Mozzarella

From boring to bold, mozzarella gets a flavor upgrade with fresh herbs and spices. This Marinated Mozzarella is easy to make and adds a flavorful touch to any appetizer spread, cheese board, or charcuterie.

Jarcuteries

Looking for an appetizer that SHINES when it comes to flavor and presentation? Then you need a jarcuterie. These single-serving charcuteries assembled in a small jar are perfect for potlucks, celebrations, or even just a movie/game night with friends. 

Pimento Cheese

Creamy and packed with flavor, this Really Good Pimento Cheese makes a delicious party dip, a topping for crackers, a filling for a sandwich, and so much more!

Cheeseballs for Every Season

Cheeseballs will forever be a go-to appetizer recipe for me. That’s why I’ve created several unique and delicious cheeseball recipes here on Inspired by Charm. You’re especially going to love my pumpkin-shaped and Christmas-tree shaped cheeseballs.

Unique Hors d’Oeuvre Ideas

Tortellini Pasta Salad

Take your pasta salad game to the next level with this Tortellini Pasta Salad . Just combine cheese tortellini, pepperoni, cheese, mixed veggies, and pine nuts and toss all of that with a bold red wine vinaigrette. A new go-to for lunch? Dinner? Get-togethers? Yes, all of the above!

Want more delicious dip recipes? I’ve got ’em! You can check out my recipe collection with over 20+ amazing pasta salad recipes .

Veggie Pizza Wreath

This Veggie Pizza (shaped like a wreath) is a delicious, easy, and beautiful cold appetizer recipe you’ll come to love again and again. It’s been a favorite in my family for years.

Antipasto Skewers

Last, but certainly not least, these Antipasto Kabobs are full of your favorite cold appetizer treats making them a delicious and beautiful hors d’oeuvre that will “wow” your guests!

Charcuterie Cups

If you want to wow your guests with a spectacular cold appetizer, then you need to make these Charcuterie Cups . A winner in both presentation and flavor, these are individual festive charcuterie boards served in a cup.

Friends, that is one delicious and incredible list of cold appetizers. As you can see, I have attempted to offer many varieties and flavors.

I certainly hope you found something to make for your next gathering.

Favorite Serving Pieces

I believe that any recipe looks better when presented in a beautiful way, these are some of my favorite service pieces to make your recipes look their best!

• serving bowl
• square Platter
• Cuarto Platters (All sizes) 
• wood and marble cake stand
• cambridge platters
• shallow serving dish
• large woven serving tray
• white Staub rectangular bakers
• small serving bowls

Want more? See all of  My Ultimate Kitchen Essentials .

More Recipe Collections You May Enjoy

• The BEST Hors D’oeuvres for Entertaining
• Tasty Margarita Recipes
• Easy Appetizers for a Crowd
• A Collection of Delicious and Easy Dip Recipes
• My Favorite Peanut Butter Desserts
• The Best Pinwheel Appetizers

Want more from Inspired by Charm? Follow along on  Instagram  and  TikTok  for daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my processes. There’s even more inspiration on  Facebook  and  Pinterest !

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10 Comments

Scrumptious recipes! I have tried some which are great!. Plan on trying them all. Thank you so much for your culinary and entertaining wisdom!

I’m ready to party and serve your food. Thanks. I had trouble tearing myself away from the Christmas charcuterie and ordered my Amazon cups, forks and picks. Lol

You need to write a cook-book. Or a cookbook/decorating/entertaining book. It would be a total hit!!

I want to try every single one of these! Great post! You and I share flavor profiles! YUM!!

These are all fabulous Michael! Thank you for sharing! Can we come over for a party”?!

These are all such great colorful recipes. Looking forward to trying a few this summer. Thank You!

I love your blog. Keep it coming!!!

I will be coming back to this post again and again. You’ve crafted a yummy collection. I need to try them all.

Several years ago I was invited to a party and needed an appetizer or dessert. I made the antipasto skewers–from your recipe and it was such a hit! Everyone loved them. They are time consuming but worth it for the impact. Thanks for the other recipes too!

I want to try all of these! Yum!

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37 Easy Appetizers for Less Stressing, More Snacking

By Antara Sinha and The Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors

You don’t want hangry dinner party guests milling about while you’re putting the finishing touches on a meal. These easy appetizer recipes—most can be prepared in 15 minutes or less—are the ticket to stress-free hosting. (“Alexa, play ‘Smooth Operator’ by Sade.”) You want to feed your people something , just not finicky party food that takes away from the main event. These snacks have gotta be delicious. They've gotta be pretty. They've gotta be easy. So from crowd-pleasing dip recipes to finger foods that rely on store-bought shortcuts, let these easy appetizers make your next party, game day , or holiday a breeze.

Roasted Cherry Tomato Caprese

This easy appetizer is as simple as one, two, three: Roast cherry tomatoes with thyme and garlic, arrange them on a platter with torn pieces of mozzarella, and serve the dish with bread on the side.

Classic Pigs in a Blanket

Now these are the kinds of roll-ups we can get behind: smoked cocktail sausages wrapped in the dough from a can of refrigerated crescent buns and baked until golden brown.

Figs With Bacon and Chile

Who knew that bacon and figs, with a bit of help from maple syrup and red wine vinegar, could make such an impressive but simple appetizer? Well, now you do.

French Onion Dip

This one’s a slow cooker. We’re not including it not because of anything having to do with quickness; while there’s no shortcut when it comes to caramelizing the onions , there are only two steps total to this easy appetizer recipe.

Boquerones With Green Olives and Orange

Fancy anchovies with olive oil, garlic, sherry vinegar, and orange zest is a well-trod last-minute entertaining move—and for good reason. Simply serve the mixture with a crusty baguette.

BA’s Best Shrimp Cocktail

Skip making your own cocktail sauce; do yourself a favor and buy it . Then, all you have to worry about is perfectly poaching the shrimp.

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Be honest: If you had to choose between a cheese board and spinach artichoke dip, you’d pick the dip, right? We sure would if it meant this shallot-infused marriage of Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.

The Only Salsa You Need

Any recipe that relies on a food processor for its main cooking method—just fill and pulse—is an easy one, in our minds. Serve this Platonic-ideal salsa as an appetizer today; if there are leftovers, thats the only sign you need to make tacos or quesadillas for yourself tomorrow.

Simple Does It Deviled Eggs

A coarsely mashed filling, crunchy with celery, scallions, and pickle relish, is the key to the best deviled eggs. And there’s no need for a piping bag; just use a couple of forks or spoons.

Marinated Mozzarella and Peppadew Peppers

If you told us that just looking at this bowl of miniature mozzarella balls and cheery Peppadew peppers didn’t make you smile, we wouldn’t believe you.

Za’atar Fire Crackers

This appetizer recipe is a twist on fire crackers, a classic in the South. Traditionally made with garlic and onion powders, red pepper flakes, and ranch dressing mix, za’atar gets the spotlight in this version.

Spinach-Yogurt Dip With Sizzled Mint

This dip recipe, a version of Persian borani esfanaaj, uses spinach, but it can also be made with cooked beets or roasted eggplant. Serve it with pita chips for a quick appetizer, but bookmark it as a sauce to serve the next time you make lamb meatballs.

Tomato Salad With Jalapeño Ranch

Make this punchy homemade ranch dressing (fresh herbs, chile, MSG) in bulk and keep a batch on hand to layer under tomatoes for a summer-friendly side dish, drizzle over grilled meat skewers, or slather onto roasted veggies.

Herbed Baked Brie

No time for queso ? Well, the nineties are back, and a show-stopping wheel of baked brie is here to do the easy appetizer job for you. Skip the cranberry mostarda and add a dollop of whatever store-bought jam looks good to you.

Old Bay Chips With Lemon Mayo

Powdered sugar may seem like an odd ingredient for a savory appetizer recipe, but adding a little helps balance the saltiness of the Old Bay seasoning .

Rosemary-Sizzled Salami, Dates, and Pecans

This warm mix throws everyone’s favorite parts of a charcuterie plate into a hot pan, where they mingle and become the very best versions of themselves.

Creamy Shrimp on Crackers

Tangy cream cheese and sour cream play up shrimp’s natural sweetness in this simple appetizer. Hot tip: Poach your shrimp and make your dressing in advance so you can enjoy the party too.

Marinated Olives and Feta

“I’ve never left a review for a recipe before but this was so good I had to come here to implore everyone reading to make this. Bonus: It’s a quick, easy, inexpensive dish to bring to a potluck.” Well, jeez, thanks, Rachael, in the comments [blushing].

Buffalo Wing Popcorn

Frank’s Red Hot sauce , let us count the ways... This sweet-and-spicy caramel corn packs the flavor of hot chicken wings into popcorn by leaning on one of our favorite hot sauces of all time.

Crispy Cheese Twists

Forget crescent rolls. Pinwheels are too much work. Store-bought puff pastry is the true MVP of party appetizers, and it has no higher calling than these crispy, buttery cheese straws.

Everything Spice–Coated Cheddar Cheese Ball

You’ll soon learn that we’re geeks for a cheese ball. Here, pancetta (or prosciutto), cream cheese, cheddar, and plenty of garlic come together for a real stunner.

BA's Best Guacamole

You’ll never hear us turn down freshly made guacamole with crispy, crunchy tortilla chips . This easy guacamole recipe is a classic best made in a Mexican mortar and pestle called a molcajete , but a bowl and a potato masher or fork also work fine.

Lemon-Pepper Salami Bites

You could make meatball sliders . You could also do a semi-homemade last-minute thing, warming up leftover BBQ pulled pork and cobbling together some kind of Texas-influenced crostini. But you should go the easier route: Put salami, Marcona almonds, olive oil, and lemon zest in a bowl—that’s it! (But don’t get us wrong, we’d never say no to a slider.)

Classic Hummus

This is a no-fail hummus recipe, one of our favorite quick appetizers. Whiz canned chickpeas in a food processor with the good stuff: tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Serve with pita chips, sweet potato chips, or sliced veggies to keep it gluten-free. Boom.

Endive Cups With Blue Cheese, Celery, and Croutons

Eating salad is much easier when the greens act as boats for cheese and fried bread. If you’re not a blue cheese person, any firm, flavorful cheese—think Parmesan or aged cheddar—would be yummy here, too.

Pistachio-Sesame Cheese Ball

Boursin cheese is a great time-saving move—it’s already well-seasoned and packed with flavor. All you need to worry about is zhuzhing the exterior; pistachio and sesame seeds add plenty of nuttiness and texture.

Spicy Cheddar Cheese Spread

This cheesy dip is made for our Pretzel Bites , but you can also serve it as a cheese dip with store-bought pretzels, baked lil’ smokies sausages, your favorite kind of crackers, or a platter of crudités.

Pork Nachos With Red Cabbage and Wonton Chips

This is the most complicated appetizer recipe on this list, and its assembly still just involves layering components and baking them on a sheet tray. Fresh cabbage, scallions, and cilantro brighten the dish.

Air Fryer Chile-Honey-Glazed Fries

One of our readers who shall not be named (look at the comments) thinks that tater tots aren’t suitable for adults. We’re all entitled to our opinions, but for what it’s worth, this recipe also works with frozen fries .

Marinated Manchego

The only thing more crowd-pleasing than cheese is marinated cheese. P.S. If Manchego isn’t your thing, go for any semi-firm cheese like white cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.

Tangy Tomato-Chile Popcorn

Once you have tangy tomato powder —made from dehydrated and pulverized tomatoes—in your arsenal, you’ll never run out of ways to use it. One of them should definitely be this umami-forward popcorn seasoning.

Marinated Goat Cheese With Herbs and Spices

If it’s never occurred to you that you can take your goat cheese and pour warm, spice-infused olive oil and garlic on top of it, well then let us introduce you to game-changing marination method.

We won’t hold you back from cooking, shelling, and chopping a boatload of clams, but we do think you came here because you hoped for a delicious clam dip that comes together in 15 minutes. Well, you found it.

Cacio e Pepe Chips

Store-bought potato chips, grated Pecorino cheese, and coarsely ground black pepper are the only ingredients you need to bring this simple appetizer idea—really, the simplest—to life.

Mortadella Moments

We apologize to the antipasto classicists, but this bite-size, fatty, pickle-y delight might have just taken bruschetta’s place in our list of go-to crostini -esque appetizers.

Dairy-Free Trout Dip

It certainly doesn’t look dairy-free, nor does its creamy texture feel dairy-free, but this dip is, in fact, completely devoid of dairy products. The secret? Almonds, water, and a high-powered blender.

Anchovy and Sardine Toasts With Chile Butter

This easy appetizer recipe was developed for all the oily fish lovers—and hey, that love will serve you. Both umami-rich anchovies and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

What Are Some Easy Holiday Appetizers That Travel Well?

Have you been asked to bring an appetizer to a party where you will be traveling? Or to a holiday work party? Or any gathering not at your own house? Here are some ideas for easy appetizers that can be made ahead, or mostly made ahead, and that travel well.

What are some things to keep in mind when planning appetizers to take to a party? First, consider food safety. Choose something that can be kept hot or cold on the road, or that can be served at room temperature. Some appetizers can be frozen and thaw out to serving temperature in a cooler as you travel. Here’s a list of appetizers to consider:

10 Types of Appetizers that Travel Well

1- Something you can make ahead – Marinated Antipasto Skewers . With purchased mozzarella balls, olives, salami, roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, and cooked tortellini, you can keep them chilled in a small cooler as you travel and serve them at room temperature when you arrive.

Also try pepperoni, drained bottled mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or cubes of colby jack cheese.

2- Appetizers that are super convenient and easy – buy a few bags of flavored popcorn and the magic happens when you serve it in cute classic boxes or bowls.

Gold foil mini popcorn boxes . 9x9x6 plastic popcorn tubs . 16 oz. paper popcorn containers .

3- A sweet dip with fruit – This classic fruit dip has only three ingredients and can be stirred together right before serving, or made ahead. Take the fruits in their original containers, and assemble just before serving at your location.

4- What is traditional for the holiday or occasion? – I consider deviled eggs a classic pre-dinner snack for any occasion. Cook and slice the eggs at home. Make the filling for the deviled eggs and put it into a quart sized ziplock-type bag. When you get to your location, clip the corner off the bag and squeeze the filling into the eggs, then serve.

5- No bake- Take some blanched and marinated vegetables and serve them on a nice serving tray. This can be done with things like green beans, but asparagus is especially tasty and looks beautiful. Marinate the asparagus all night in the fridge and serve chilled.

6- Finger Foods – Tortilla wraps can be made the day before and kept chilled as you travel. Try a Mexican flavored tortilla pinwheel with salsa and olives.

7- Gluten Free – Try pineapple salsa and grilled halloumi cheese . The salsa can be made ahead and chilled. The cheese can be griddled at the location if there is space on the stove, and time to do it, but it is still delicious if you cook the cheese ahead and serve it at room temperature.

8- Keto – My favorite keto appetizer is asparagus ham rollups . If you are on a keto diet, it’s always a good idea to bring something that you know that you can eat, and is also delicious for everyone.

9- Vegetarian – Toasted bread and spinach dip. Some vegetarians don’t eat any cheese, so try a Vegan Spinach Dip recipe and add toasted bread rounds. Both can be made ahead.

10- Work Party – When you only have to transport your appetizer as far as the office party, you could choose something a little more elaborate such as puff pastry filled with something. Like mushrooms and cheese . Bake them and take them, since the shorter travel time will allow safe transport. Serve at room temperature.

There you have 10 types of appetizers that can be made ahead and easily transported to your event. Some are easier than others. Consider something from the deli department at the grocery store if you are short on time.

When bringing something store bought or very simple, dress it up by serving it in a creative way or in a pretty serving piece.

disposable gold trays . porcelain bowl with stand . 4 wood slice servers .

Helpful Things to Keep Foods Cold While Traveling

A cooler with a bag of ice is the obvious choice because it usually works just fine. For longer trips, or for concerns about water leaking as the ice melts, here are a few things that might be helpful:

If you travel a lot you might want to invest in a powered cooler/heater combo. This one is from Amazon for about $130.

An insulated carrier that folds flat with some freezable ice packs :

For long or multi day trips, this mini car refrigerator that is compatible with 12V or 24V DC outlets, and includes a vehicle outlet adapter and 110-240V home outlet capability.

Remember that your host invited you because they want to spend time with you, and your contribution to the meal is just an extra! Don’t stress, or worry about bringing something super elaborate or fancy when you are traveling. Happy partying!

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