14 Warm-Weather Party Appetizers


Salmon Tartare in Baked Wonton Cups
Great for a hot summer day, this cool starter is refreshing and delicious. Fresh, healthy ingredients make this appetizer a great alternative to other heavier dishes. Image courtesy of Spoon Fork Bacon
Recipe: Salmon Tartare in Baked Wonton Cups
Eggplant Chips With Cilantro Pesto
Chips and dip is always a party favorite, but for a variation on the classic standby, give eggplant chips a try. The beautiful color and sweet taste pair perfectly with fresh cilantro pesto. Image courtesy of What's Gaby Cooking
Recipe: Eggplant Chips With Cilantro Pesto
Bacon and Ranch Cajun Baby Cheeseburgers
Every good barbeque requires the perfect cheeseburger, and these flavorful baby cheeseburgers are perfect outdoor party fare. Wouldn't it be nice to enjoy a delicious burger and still have room for dessert (and everything else)? Image courtesy of Picky Palate
Recipe: Bacon and Ranch Cajun Baby Cheeseburgers
Roasted Pepper and Mozzarella Bites
It seems like such a pity to not take advantage of nature's bounty during the warmer months. Garden-fresh bell peppers are a must. This bell pepper and mozzarella combination could not get any easier, but sometimes the simplest recipes are also the most delightful. Image courtesy of The Italian Dish
Recipe: Roasted Pepper and Mozzarella Bites
Avocado Fries
Is it even possible to mess up an avocado? Plain, on a sandwich, in guacamole — however they are prepared, avocados simply can't help but be delicious. In fact, these avocado fries might just be too much of a good thing. Image courtesy of A Cozy Kitchen
Recipe: Avocado Fries
Whole Grain Roasted Garlic Bruschetta
Not many foods exist that are better than really delectable bread. So instead of looking for alternatives, why not simply add variety? This hearty bruschetta should do just the trick. Image courtesy of Picky Palate
Recipe: Whole Grain Roasted Garlic Bruschetta
Best Potato Salad
With so many different potato salad recipes to choose from, how can you be sure you have the best potato salad? Though taste buds are subjective, it is hard to imagine anything more delicious than just the right mix of pickles, dill and the pièce de résistance: whole-grain mustard. Image courtesy of Pink Basil
Recipe: Best Potato Salad
Spicy Shrimp Toast
Surprise your taste buds with this conglomeration of complementing flavors. Shrimp, chile, ginger and more star in this tasty appetizer that is sure to delight. Image courtesy of Spoon Fork Bacon
Recipe: Spicy Shrimp Toast
Hummus
Though the fresh chickpeas will need to be soaked overnight, the wait is the most difficult aspect of this dish. But take heart in the fact that soon you will be enjoying the creamy delight that only entirely homemade hummus can provide. Image courtesy of Sassy Radish
Recipe: Hummus
Fresh Corn and Avocado Salsa
When nature supplies such exquisite ingredients, it doesn't take much to make the perfect summer salsa. Fresh corn, tomatoes, onions and avocados come together for a mouthwatering result: the perfect party dish. Image courtesy of A Cozy Kitchen
Recipe: Fresh Corn and Avocado Salsa
Smoked Gouda and Herb Puffs
These flaky puffs are an ideal finger food, perfect for a party or even just a regular day at home. Cheesy and delicious, these yummy little morsels make a fantastic appetizer. Image courtesy of Spoon Fork Bacon
Recipe: Smoked Gouda and Herb Puffs
Roasted Salsa
Grilled or broiled, a seared veggie is a flavorful veggie. And this roasted salsa takes advantage of the many delicious flavors summer has to offer. Image courtesy of Sassy Radish
Recipe: Roasted Salsa
Creamy Lump Crab and Corn Dip
Partygoers love a good dip, and a crab dip is perfect for summer soirées. Serve it on top of a garlic crostini, and it is bound to be a hit. Image courtesy of Spoon Fork Bacon
Recipe: Creamy Lump Crab and Corn Dip
Amazing Deviled Eggs
Though deviled eggs are not strictly a warm-weather menu item, they certainly are party-pleasers (any time of the year!). To add an extra kick to the popular classic, sprinkle the finished product with smoked paprika. Image courtesy of Pink Basil
Recipe: Amazing Deviled Eggs