Summer parties are all about enjoying good food and great company under the warm sun. From fresh fruit-based dishes to cool dips and savory finger foods, the options are endless, each one designed to bring the flavors of the season to life.
Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these appetizers will elevate your party and leave everyone coming back for more. In this list, you’ll find 20 summer appetizers for a party that are perfect for any occasion – ideal for satisfying every craving while keeping things cool, fresh, and fun.
1. Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese are a perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them an ideal appetizer for any party. The rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon complements the sweetness of dates, while the tangy goat cheese filling adds a creamy texture that will leave your guests asking for more.
Ingredients
- 12 dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 12 slices of bacon
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit. Stuff each date with a teaspoon of goat cheese.
- Wrap each stuffed date with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
- Arrange the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
2. Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are crispy, crunchy shrimp coated in a tangy, spicy bang bang sauce and nestled in soft tortillas, creating an irresistible bite that’s perfect for any summer party. The creamy sauce, paired with the freshness of slaw and the savory crunch of fried shrimp, makes these tacos a hit at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
- 6 soft flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
For Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar to create the bang bang sauce. Set aside.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the buttermilk with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In another shallow bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip the shrimp first into the buttermilk mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure they stick.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a small bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with a bit of the bang bang sauce.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to soften.
- To assemble, layer the cabbage mixture on each tortilla, top with crispy shrimp, drizzle with the remaining bang bang sauce, and garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, creamy goodness of bang bang shrimp tacos!
3. Bisquick Sausage Cheese Balls
Bisquick sausage cheese balls are a Southern classic that combines savory sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and the perfect balance of seasoning into bite-sized, golden balls of goodness. The use of Bisquick for the dough makes them incredibly easy to prepare, and they bake up to perfection with a crispy exterior and cheesy, flavorful interior.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Bisquick baking mix
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine the sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the cheese balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these cheesy, savory treats at your next gathering!
4. Brie and Fig Crostini
Brie and fig crostini is an elegant and delicious appetizer that combines the creamy, rich flavor of Brie cheese with the natural sweetness of figs. The crispy baguette base provides a satisfying crunch, while the fig preserves add a burst of fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup Brie cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fig preserves
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- Honey, for drizzling
- Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil.
- Toast the bread in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until the slices are golden and crispy.
- Once toasted, spread a thin layer of Brie cheese onto each crostini.
- Top each slice with a spoonful of fig preserves.
- Drizzle a bit of honey over the fig preserves for added sweetness and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
5. Bruschetta Pizza
Bruschetta pizza is a delightful fusion of two beloved Italian dishes—bruschetta and pizza. The crispy pizza crust serves as a perfect base for fresh, juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil. Topped with a balsamic glaze, this pizza brings together the savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that make it an irresistible appetizer for any summer party or gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Place the rolled dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pizza dough and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the dough.
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and top it with the torn basil leaves.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza for that perfect touch of sweetness and tang.
- Slice and serve immediately.
6. Buffalo Tofu Bites
Buffalo Tofu Bites are a perfect appetizer for anyone who loves the bold, spicy flavor of buffalo sauce but prefers a plant-based option. Crispy tofu cubes are tossed in a fiery buffalo sauce, creating a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful center.
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1/2 cup flour (can use all-purpose or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Celery sticks, for serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dip, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they are even in size for consistent cooking.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the tofu cubes in the flour mixture, coating them evenly.
- Arrange the coated tofu on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
- While the tofu is baking, heat the buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Once the tofu is done, remove it from the oven and transfer to a large bowl.
- Pour the buffalo sauce over the tofu and toss gently to coat each piece.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese.
7. Chicken-Stuffed Avocados
Chicken-Stuffed Avocados are a healthy appetizer that combines creamy avocado with a protein-packed chicken salad. The richness of the avocado pairs perfectly with the savory, flavorful chicken mixture, creating a satisfying bite. Garnished with fresh herbs and a dash of seasoning, these stuffed avocados are sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer option)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 small avocado, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Slice the avocados in half and remove the pits. Gently scoop out some of the flesh from each half to create more room for the filling, but be careful not to tear the skin.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, smoked paprika, chopped red onion, diced avocado, and parsley.
- Stir the mixture well until everything is evenly combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the chicken salad mixture into the hollowed-out avocado halves.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and extra fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
8. Cilantro Lime Dip
Cilantro Lime Dip features cilantro combined with the tangy kick of lime, creating an irresistible dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, veggies, or even as a topping for tacos and grilled meats. This simple yet flavorful dip uses Greek yogurt or sour cream to add creaminess, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) with fresh cilantro and lime juice.
- Add the garlic powder, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- If desired, drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil to add extra creaminess and richness.
- Mix everything together until smooth and well-blended.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice to your liking.
- Serve immediately with chips, fresh veggies, or use as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.
9. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are savory bites featuring fresh, juicy mushroom caps filled with a creamy, flavorful crab mixture, and then baked to golden perfection. The rich crab filling is enhanced with a combination of seasonings and fresh herbs, creating a well-balanced appetizer that will be the star of any gathering.
Ingredients
- 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed
- 1/2 lb crab meat (fresh or canned)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems carefully, setting them aside for later use.
- In a bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until the filling is smooth and well-combined.
- Spoon the crab mixture into the mushroom caps, pressing it down gently to ensure the mushrooms are well-filled.
- Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil to help them crisp up.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.
10. Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a combination of sweet mini peppers and a creamy, herbed cheese mixture that offers a refreshing and satisfying bite that is both easy to prepare and full of flavor. These bite-sized treats are an excellent choice for guests looking for a light yet savory snack, and their vibrant colors make them a visually appealing addition to any spread.
Ingredients
- 12 mini bell peppers, halved and deseeded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds, creating little boats for the stuffing.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, chives, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.
- Optional: Sprinkle the stuffed peppers with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy topping.
- Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
11. Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower
Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower offers roasted cauliflower florets that are coated in a rich garlic-infused olive oil and sprinkled with savory parmesan cheese, creating a crispy, cheesy crust that’s perfect for serving as a party appetizer. Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also low-carb, making it a great option for guests looking for lighter yet indulgent snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to create a garlic mixture.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the garlic oil mixture.
- Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded to allow for even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy at the edges, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the roasted cauliflower with grated parmesan cheese while it’s still hot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick.
12. Grilled Vegetable Platter
The Grilled Vegetable Platter is a vibrant and healthy summer appetizer that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables like corn, zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and eggplant, this dish is grilled to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 ears of corn, husked
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, halved and deseeded
- 1 yellow bell pepper, halved and deseeded
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 small eggplant, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Drizzle the zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, eggplant, and corn with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Grill the corn on the cob for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
- Grill the zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus for 5-7 minutes, flipping once, until grill marks appear and the vegetables are tender.
- Once the vegetables are done, remove them from the grill and place them on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the grilled vegetables with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
- Optionally, top with crumbled feta cheese for an added creamy texture and tang.
13. Hawaiian Meatballs
Hawaiian Meatballs bring tender, juicy meatballs that are glazed with a tangy pineapple teriyaki sauce that adds a tropical twist to your party appetizers. Perfectly balanced with a slight sweetness from the pineapple and a rich savory flavor from the meatballs, they are an ideal snack for any summer gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Roll the meat mixture into bite-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, make the pineapple teriyaki sauce. In a saucepan, combine the pineapple chunks, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- (Optional) If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water and add it to the saucepan. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a bowl and pour the pineapple teriyaki sauce over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped chives before serving.
14. Honey Garlic Meatballs
Honey Garlic Meatballs are a delicious balance of savory and sweet, featuring tender meatballs enveloped in a sticky, flavorful honey garlic sauce. These meatballs are the perfect appetizer for any summer party, combining the richness of the meatballs with the sweetness of honey and the aromatic depth of garlic.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are fully cooked through and lightly browned.
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat and set aside.
- When the meatballs are done, transfer them to a serving dish and pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Toss gently to coat each meatball evenly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions.
15. Mini Lobster Rolls
Mini Lobster Rolls are buttery, toasted rolls that are filled with a chilled lobster salad that’s light and flavorful, making them the perfect appetizer for a gathering. The lobster’s sweetness combined with the creamy dressing and a slight kick from fresh herbs creates a delicious bite in every mouthful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6-8 mini soft rolls or hot dog buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Start by preparing the lobster salad. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped lobster meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Add in the fresh chives, parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give the mixture another gentle stir to incorporate the herbs and seasonings evenly.
- Next, toast the mini rolls or hot dog buns. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, brush the butter onto the inside of the buns. Place the buns butter-side down in the skillet and toast until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Once the buns are toasted, spoon the lobster salad generously into each roll, filling them with the creamy, herb-packed lobster mixture.
- Serve immediately with a side of potato chips or a light salad for a complete appetizer.
16. Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Parmesan Zucchini Chips are a light, crunchy snack perfect for summer parties or as a guilt-free appetizer. The thinly sliced zucchini is coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, offering a delicious combination of savory cheese and tender veggie. Baked to golden perfection, these chips are a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks but pack all the flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
- Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick, to ensure they cook evenly.
- Brush each zucchini slice with a thin layer of olive oil, then dip it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
- Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the zucchini chips in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Once baked, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with a side of your favorite dip, or enjoy them as is.
17. Shrimp Tostadas
Shrimp Tostadas are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that combines crispy tostada shells with seasoned shrimp, creamy avocado, and a tangy lime crema. The crunch of the tostada shell pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp and the smooth, rich texture of avocado, while the lime crema adds a refreshing zest to each bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tostada shells
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and lime juice to make the lime crema. Stir well until smooth and set aside.
- To assemble the tostadas, place each tostada shell on a serving plate. Start by layering a few slices of avocado on each shell, followed by a handful of shredded red cabbage.
- Add a generous portion of the cooked shrimp on top of the cabbage and avocado.
- Drizzle the lime crema over the shrimp, then garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of salt.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zest and enjoy!
18. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites showcase crisp cucumber slices serving as the base, topped with a layer of creamy cream cheese, silky smoked salmon, and a sprig of fresh dill for a light yet indulgent bite. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare, elegant in appearance, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
- 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving platter.
- Spoon or pipe a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice, spreading it gently with the back of the spoon.
- Place a slice of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber slice.
- Garnish with a small sprig of fresh dill on each bite for a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy these light, fresh appetizers!
19. Sweet Potato Toast
Sweet Potato Toast is a deliciously nutritious and versatile option containing thinly sliced sweet potatoes that are roasted until crispy, making them the perfect base for a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer savory options like avocado and eggs or sweet ones with fruits and nut butter, this simple yet satisfying dish offers a healthy twist on traditional toast.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Sweet Topping (Banana and Peanut Butter Toast):
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1 banana, sliced
- A handful of chopped almonds
For Savory Topping (Berry and Yogurt Toast):
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- A drizzle of honey or agave (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the sweet potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the sweet potato slices in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crispy around the edges.
- For the sweet topping: Spread peanut butter on the roasted sweet potato slices and top with banana slices and chopped almonds.
- For the savory topping: Spread Greek yogurt on the roasted sweet potato slices, then add mixed berries, sliced almonds, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
- Once the sweet potato slices are roasted and ready, top them with the prepared toppings and serve immediately.
20. Thai Chicken Satay
Thai Chicken Satay is a flavorful appetizer featuring tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. The chicken is infused with a delicious combination of Thai spices, giving it a savory yet slightly sweet profile. Served with a rich and creamy peanut dipping sauce, this dish offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
For the Peanut Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
- Crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, curry powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, vegetable oil, fish sauce, turmeric, and cumin. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for a deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred on the outside.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the peanut dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Add warm water a tablespoon at a time until the desired sauce consistency is reached.
- Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the grilled chicken skewers with the peanut dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the perfect summer party appetizer should combine simplicity, flavor, and freshness. Whether you’re opting for light and healthy bites or rich and indulgent treats, there’s a dish for every palate. By incorporating seasonal ingredients, vibrant colors, and easy-to-make recipes, you can ensure your guests enjoy a memorable and delicious experience.
These 20 summer appetizers will undoubtedly be the hit of your next gathering, leaving everyone satisfied and impressed. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to host a summer party everyone will love!