Appetizer Recipes

Crisp Belgian endive leaves loaded two ways: smoked salmon with creamy Taleggio and fennel, or bresaola with roasted peppers and sun-dried tomatoes. No-cook Italian appetizers in 20 minutes.

Santa Maria-style bean soup simmered with carrots, celery, tomatoes, cumin, and bay leaves in olive oil and stock. Vegetarian, one pot, and ready in an hour.

Toasted bread rounds topped with melted ham and cheddar, a dab of mango chutney, Parmesan, and a hit of paprika. Broiled until bubbly. A sweet-savory party appetizer ready in 15 minutes.

Glossy stir-fried chicken wings marinated in soy and dark corn syrup, then simmered with fresh ginger, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and a splash of dry sherry. Sticky, savory, and finger-licking good.

Sicilian caponata with sauteed eggplant, olives, capers, and a sweet-tangy vinegar sauce. A rustic Italian appetizer or side that tastes even better the next day.

This delicious white pizza is topping with caramelized onion, leafy greens and the mixture of the ricotta and parmesan cheese.

Smooth carrot spread seasoned with dill, garlic, and miso, thickened with arrowroot. Vegetarian pate for crackers or veggie dipping.

This mousse is different from sweet cheese mousse, I do prefer this one!

Chestnut-stuffed mushrooms on buttery whole-wheat croûtes: pan-fried mushroom caps filled with a chunky chestnut, onion, and nutmeg stuffing, grilled until bubbling. A festive vegetarian starter.

Bacon-wrapped chicken livers threaded on skewers with mushroom caps, seasoned with marjoram and thyme, then broiled with butter and white wine until the bacon crisps. A retro cocktail party showstopper.

Breaded chicken pieces cooked in the microwave with sauterne wine, mushrooms, and tomatoes. A quick shortcut version of the classic French Chicken Marengo.

Herbed chicken blended with Swiss, Parmesan, and mayo spread on English muffins, baked until bubbly and golden, then cut into quarters. A hot, savory appetizer ready in 25 minutes.

Bite-sized baked egg cups loaded with cheddar, Monterey Jack, green chiles, and cumin. Makes 30 mini appetizers that disappear the second they hit the table.

Oven-roasted peanuts coated in crushed chili peppers, cumin, and turmeric for a smoky, spicy snack. Golden and crunchy in just 30 minutes, these beat store-bought bar nuts every single time.

A succulent dish that is served as an appetizer on a bed of lettuce. Perfect side dish for pasta or rice.

A lighter cheese ball made with Neufchatel, reduced-fat cheddar and Swiss, spiked with horseradish and Dijon mustard. Rolled in fresh parsley and served with crackers. No cooking required.