Entertain stress-free with these cold appetizer ideas. Instead of standing in the kitchen while your guests mingle, add low prep or make-ahead cold appetizers to your menu. Save time and stress, without sacrificing on flavor. Entertaining is stressful enough without running around our kitchens trying to cook everything last minute. A simple solution is adding more cold appetizer recipes to our menus that can either be made ahead, or are a snap to assemble when guests arrive. Instead of working in the kitchen while my guests enjoy the party, I like to choose a selection of cold appetizers that let me relax too, and I thought I’d share some of my favorites. In this post you’ll find an array of delicious suggestions that you can mix and match to make a beautiful spread for your guests that you can actually enjoy alongside them.
How to Prepare a Gourmet Cold Appetizer Menu
When I’m inviting friends and family over, I love to feed them, but I also love to spend time with them, so making a feast by combining different cold appetizer recipes is a fun way to do both.
- Think about the season – Choosing seasonal ingredients at their best is a great way to make sure your menu is full of flavor.
- Serve a variety – Combine a variety of choices like make ahead dips, a styled charcuterie board, and low prep crostinis for a beautiful and fun menu.
- Don’t forget the easy fillers – seasoned nuts, dried fruits, and flavored olives are just a few suggestions for easy, no prep additions that will help fill guests plates.
With these tips, you can mix and match cold appetizer recipes from this list and create a beautiful, but easy to prepare, stress-free menu that you and your guests will love.
1. Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices
This Cranberry Chicken Salad on crunchy and fresh apple slices is a perfect appetizer to surprise your guests with. So simple and so tasty!
2. Prosciutto Wrapped Cashew Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates with Balsamic Glaze
These prosciutto wrapped cashew cream cheese stuffed dates with balsamic glaze are the perfect party appetizer. They’re dairy free and so easy to make.
3. Prosciutto Crostini with Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onions
Who doesn’t need some quick appetizers in their repertoire? These prosciutto crostini generously slathered with goat cheese and topped with caramelized onions & spinach are quick and easy, but elegant and impressive for any occasion.
4. Small Batch Hummus
Small Batch Hummus Recipe – This smooth and creamy hummus is made with a few simple ingredients including 1 can of chickpeas. It’s so easy to make and absolutely delicious!
5. Georgian Eggplant Rolls with Walnuts
These Georgian Eggplant Rolls With Walnut Filling are a delightfully simple, healthy vegan appetizer. Three ingredients, some artfully chosen spices, and less than an hour of time and you have a vegan treat for the tastebuds with these walnut stuffed eggplant rolls.
6. Chicken Rice Paper Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Is it possible for a snack to be super delicious and healthy at the same time? You bet. These low-calorie Rice Paper Rolls are a perfect example. Stuffed with chicken, loads of veggies, and served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce, these little guys will make you fall in love. Also great as a light dinner!
7. Vegan Fully Loaded Nachos
Meatless and dairy free loaded nachos with all the flavors you need. Serve it as an appetizer or snack at your next party.
8. Easy Grilled Crostini Sandwich Bites
Elevate boring sandwiches to an elegant, appetizer ready, beautiful & easy Grilled Crostini Sandwich Bites! Delicious enough for a party, easy enough for an everyday lunch!
9. Easy 7 Layer Dip
This easy 7 layer dip is packed full of mouthwatering Mexican flavors! Complete with fresh guacamole and vegetables, serve this easy recipe with homemade tortilla chips for the perfect appetizer at your next party.
10. 4 Ingredient Caprese Salad Skewers (Gluten-free)
This healthy, simple and delicious 4 Ingredient Caprese Salad Skewer appetizer is make-ahead or perfect for a last minute gathering, especially if you are trying to stay on track with your health goals.
