When it comes to entertaining, there’s nothing quite like offering your guests a selection of elegant hors d’oeuvres to get the party started. Not only are they easy to make in advance, but they also allow you to showcase your culinary skills and provide a delightful contrast to the main course that follows. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes for hors d’oeuvres that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
From classic combinations like prosciutto and melon to more innovative pairings like shrimp cocktail with spicy remoulade, these bite-sized morsels are perfect for a dinner party, holiday gathering, or simply as a special treat any time of year. And the best part? They’re all relatively easy to make, even for those who may not consider themselves experienced cooks.
Smoked Salmon Canapés with Dill Cream Cheese
These bite-sized canapés are perfect for your next gathering or party. The smoky flavor of the salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of crackers or baguette slices (about 20-25 pieces)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, cream cheese, chopped dill, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a small spoonful of the salmon mixture onto each cracker or baguette slice.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of crispy bacon, sweet dates, and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the goat cheese over the dates, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey over the goat cheese for added sweetness.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Mini Caprese Skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on toothpicks. The tangy balsamic glaze adds a rich and velvety touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo toothpicks
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella slice, and a basil leaf onto each toothpick.
2. Place the skewers on a serving plate or platter.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers in a zigzag pattern.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are ready to serve fresh off the assembly line.
Prosciutto and Melon Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of melon with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto. Perfect for a quick snack or as an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe melon (such as honeydew or cantaloupe), cubed
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the melon into small cubes and place on a serving plate.
2. Arrange the prosciutto slices on top of the melon cubes.
3. Drizzle the honey over the prosciutto.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic Herb Breadcrumbs
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy-to-make recipe featuring flavorful stuffed mushrooms and crispy garlic herb breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button, cremini, or portobello)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup garlic herb breadcrumbs (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Herb Breadcrumbs:
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic herb breadcrumbs, and cheddar cheese (if using).
3. Arrange mushroom caps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the breadcrumb mixture among the mushrooms, spooning it into the caps.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Crisps with Whipped Feta and Honey
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Parmesan crisps paired with a tangy whipped feta and a drizzle of golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add melted butter and stir until a dough forms. Roll out between sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., strips or squares). Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Allow crisps to cool completely.
7. Whip crumbled feta cheese with a fork until smooth. Drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips: For an extra crunchy snack, bake the Parmesan crisps for an additional 2-3 minutes. Enjoy with your favorite beverage or as a satisfying accompaniment to soups and salads.
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Remoulade
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing and spicy shrimp cocktail, served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and paprika.
2. Stir until smooth and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
4. To assemble the cocktail, place a chilled shrimp on each plate or glass, and spoon some of the remoulade sauce over the top.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a chilled appetizer that requires no cooking time.
Cucumber Cups with Herbed Goat Cheese
A refreshing and elegant appetizer or snack, these cucumber cups filled with herbed goat cheese are perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 small cucumbers (English or pickling)
– 8 oz goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, optional
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out a small portion of the interior to create a “cup.”
2. In a bowl, mix together the softened goat cheese, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the cucumber cups, spooning it into each cup.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
6. Offer lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly job.
Mini Beef Wellingtons with Mushroom Duxelles
Elevate your appetizers game with these bite-sized Mini Beef Wellingtons, featuring tender beef and earthy mushroom duxelles wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see below for recipe)
Mushroom Duxelles:
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, onion, mushrooms, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place small spoonfuls of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Top with mushroom duxelles and fold the other half of the pastry over the filling. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips: For an extra touch, serve Mini Beef Wellingtons with a dollop of horseradish cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, and Fresh Mozzarella
Classic Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, and Fresh Mozzarella
This Italian-inspired appetizer is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the brightness of fresh basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices (preferably day-old)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze or extra-virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and chopped basil.
4. Drizzle toasted bread with olive oil, then top each slice with a spoonful of tomato-basil mixture.
5. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, or drizzle with balsamic glaze or extra-virgin olive oil for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Phyllo Cups
Elevate your party game with these crispy, cheesy, and savory Spinach and Artichoke Phyllo Cups. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup cooked spinach
– 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing phyllo
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cream cheese, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Lay out one sheet of phyllo, brushing with vegetable oil.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture in the center of the phyllo.
6. Fold the edges of the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or cup shape.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and phyllo sheets.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Truffle Oil and Chives
Elegant Deviled Eggs with Truffle Oil and Chives Recipe
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cakes, perfectly seasoned and served with a tangy lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Lemon Aioli ingredients (below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and egg. Add the mixture to the crab mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Fry the crab cakes in hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Bake at 375°F for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve chilled with crab cakes.
Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts
Elevate your cheese board game with this sweet and savory baked brie, featuring fig jam and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 1 lb)
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese, then sprinkle the fig jam and chopped walnuts evenly around the wheel.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is softened and slightly melted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with these easy-to-make chicken satay skewers served with a creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill satay skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Peanut Sauce (whisk all ingredients together in a bowl).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Puff Pastry Cheese Straws
Elevate your snack game with these buttery, cheesy, and crispy straws that are perfect for parties or movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into long strips, about 1/4 inch wide.
4. Brush each strip with beaten egg and sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. Place straws on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each straw.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Shrimp Tartlets
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Avocado and Shrimp Tartlets, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 mini puff pastry tart shells (about 1 inch in diameter)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the diced avocado and toss until coated with the marinade.
4. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining marinade and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake the shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, bake the puff pastry tart shells for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Assemble the tartlets by placing a cooked shrimp on each tart shell, followed by a spoonful of avocado mixture.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, perfectly paired with crunchy Pita Chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Peel off skin, chop peppers into pieces, and set aside.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Stir in roasted red peppers.
6. Serve with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including roasting time)
Enjoy your delicious Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips!
Mini Quiches Lorraine
Elevate your brunch game with these bite-sized quiches filled with creamy bacon and cheese goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package mini muffin tin liners (24-count)
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add Gruyère cheese and diced bacon; stir until combined.
4. Line mini muffin tin with liners.
5. Divide egg mixture evenly among the lined cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Herb Yogurt Dip
Simplify your summer meals with this colorful and flavorful recipe, featuring a medley of grilled vegetables paired with a refreshing herb-infused yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions, mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
5. In a bowl, mix yogurt with parsley, dill, and lemon juice.
6. Serve grilled skewers with herb yogurt dip on the side.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Elevate your entertaining game with these elegant hors d’oeuvres recipes. From classic combinations like prosciutto and melon to more adventurous pairings like shrimp cocktail with spicy remoulade, there’s something for every taste and style. Mini caprese skewers with balsamic glaze, smoked salmon canapés with dill cream cheese, and stuffed mushrooms with garlic herb breadcrumbs are just a few of the delicious options featured in this collection of 20 recipes. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or a fancy dinner, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests.
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