106 appetizer recipes

Japanese pickled asparagus marinated in miso paste and dry mustard for a tangy, umami-rich side dish or appetizer.

Polenta crostini topped with a savory porcini and cremini mushroom sauce. Crisp broiled polenta rounds stand in for bread, making this Italian appetizer naturally gluten-free.

Kobeba samakeyah are Lebanese fish-filled bulgur croquettes seasoned with cumin and cilantro, deep-fried golden, and served with homemade tahini sauce. A Middle Eastern classic.

Crystal-clear dumpling wrappers reveal a savory filling of shrimp, pork, mushrooms, and water chestnuts. These bite-sized dim sum gems steam in just minutes and disappear even faster from the plate.

Dolmades yialandzi are Greek stuffed grape leaves filled with herbed rice, dill, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil. A vegetarian meze served cold as an appetizer or light main course.

Try these savory turnovers, they are too delicious to stop eating. Sauteed mushrooms gives the meaty texture and delicious flavor, the pepper Jack cheese adds extra cheesy bite, and the thyme adds the fresh taste. These tasty and delicate turnovers are perfect appetizer, or can be a delicious vegetarian main course.

Crispy vegetable turnovers with potato, cauliflower, carrots, and peas in a matzo meal crust. These samoosi make 20 golden appetizers that are vegetarian-friendly.

Edible flower salad with nasturtium leaves and blossoms layered over Vidalia onions and tomatoes, finished with celery and vinaigrette. Stunning and peppery.

Oktapodi maratho krasato is Greek braised octopus with fennel and tomatoes in red wine. Pounded tender, then slow-simmered until fork-soft. Served warm or cold.

Lightened potato skins with crispy russet shells, sharp cheddar, turkey bacon, and fresh chives, served with low-fat sour cream. All the steakhouse appetizer flavor, way less guilt.

A tangy, jewel-toned tomato aspic loaded with crunchy celery, green peppers, and green beans. This vintage molded salad brings old-school Southern charm to any potluck or holiday spread.

Vegetarian Chinese boiled dumplings (shwei jow) with handmade wrappers and a tofu, mushroom, and lily bud filling. Served with a soy-vinegar dipping sauce. Makes 24.

Baked Brie with a homemade cranberry-pear compote, honey, currants, and pumpkin pie spice. A warm, bubbly holiday appetizer served with melba rounds or sliced fruit.

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Sweet potato pancakes with creamy mushroom ragout pair crispy panko-crusted sweet potato cakes with a sage-and-shallot wild mushroom cream sauce. An elegant vegetarian appetizer or holiday side.

Hearty green lentils simmer with warm spices and bright lemon in this silky Mediterranean soup that's both nourishing and budget-friendly for busy weeknights.