Everyone wants to impress their guests at a dinner party. Even without a verbal compliment, their subtle nod of approval or grin after a bite of your food can bring inexplicable joy. Thus, you need to put thought into each dish you serve. If you’ve already done the more common appetizer recipes like chips and dip or devilled eggs, consider making way for new options.
1. Bacon Jam
Bacon jam is a lovely spread you can serve with cheese and crackers. To make it, cook bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and allow it to cool. In the grease, cook some chopped onion until it’s golden brown.
Add water, brown sugar, paprika and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until the mixture starts to thicken. When it’s jammy, chop and toss in your bacon pieces.
2. Assorted Skewers
Presentation is everything, so consider creating a crown of assorted skewers. You can get a fancy kebab stand or look for a foam board to stick the pieces in. Chop some pork, peppers and cheese for the savory skewers.
If you have time before dinner, grill the kebabs — if not, the oven works well, too. For dessert, put fruits and marshmallows on a stick, and serve them as is.
3. Pear and Brie Tartlets
Pear and brie cheese’s flavors complement each other well. Create small tart shells by putting puff pastry into a muffin tin. Get some ripe brie and slice it into cubes, also dicing the pear.
Assemble the tiny tartlets by placing one cube of dairy and multiple cubes of fruit inside the shells. Bake them for about 12 minutes or until the pastry looks golden brown.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms
Mushrooms are versatile vegetables that balance out many ingredients. Shop for portobello mushrooms — they have a wide cap that serves as space for your stuffing. If they’re unavailable, shiitake and baby bellas can create bite-sized pieces.
Remove the stalk of your chosen mushroom and clean it well. Whisk together softened cream cheese, fresh garlic, onion, chives, salt and a little black pepper for your stuffing. Fill the cap with the mixture and bake for 10 to 15 minutes right before serving.
5. Crab Rangoons
If you’re looking for a crisp appetizer, crab rangoons are the perfect dish. Shred some crab meat and mix it with cream cheese. Salt, pepper and a dash of paprika add the perfect seasoning without overpowering the mixture.
Put a dollop of your crab and cream cheese on a wonton wrapper, and fold it closed to form an X. Fry the rangoons until they turn golden brown. Serve them on their own, or with a side of sweet and sour sauce. You can whip this up with ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar and chili flakes.
6. Oyster Tacos
Tacos are a reliable appetizer option, especially if you want to let guests assemble their own. Oysters instead of regular beef or chicken can make your dish stand out.
To make this, get some fresh oysters and remove them from their shells. Dip them in a mixture of egg and buttermilk, and fry them until crispy. Then, put two or three pieces into a soft tortilla with shredded cabbage, onion and guacamole.
7. Salmon Crostinis
Salmon crostinis are a light appetizer that can start your dinner party just right. To make them, butter and toast baguette slices at 400˚ Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or less. Cut some smoked salmon into pieces, making sure it’s thick enough to taste.
Mix some Greek yogurt, cream cheese, dill and lemon juice into a paste. When your bread is ready, lay on the blend and delicately put the sliced salmon on top. You can also put some extra cream mixture and sliced spring onions on top for garnish.
8. Potato Croquettes
Potato croquettes are a great way to spin your regular mashed potatoes into a crispy snack for your dinner party guests. All you have to do is mix them with cooked bacon and parsley. Add extra salt, and pepper before dipping them in an egg and buttermilk mixture batter. You can also coat them in breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
If you have some extra cheese, put it in the center of the potato mixture before forming them into balls. Fry until golden and serve.
9. Beef Wellington Bites
Beef Wellington is a great entree dish, but creating miniature pieces as an appetizer can be a great take on the dish. Guests will also appreciate the thought you put into making it. To create them, get some beef tenderloin and slice it into bite-sized cubes.
Lightly sear the pieces to your preferred doneness — they’ll cook relatively quickly because they’re small. Once the meat’s done, wrap the pieces in puff pastry and bake them in the oven. You can also add some mustard and grilled onions to the beef before wrapping.
10. Chicken Pot Pie Cupcakes
Chicken pot pie cupcakes are a comforting appetizer to serve during your party. Make your chicken mixture by putting chicken soup, veggies and cheddar cheese in a bowl. Add shredded chicken to make it even meatier.
Once finished, put your premade pie crust into small cupcake tins and add a bit of the chicken mixture. Bake them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Create Delectable Dinner Appetizers
There are many delicious appetizers perfect for any dinner party — just remember to consider your guests’ flavor palates and dietary restrictions. You can serve incredible dishes with some thoughtfulness and creativity.