Cocktail parties are made for stand-up eating with a variety of finger foods. These Cold Appetizer recipes will make your next party the talk of the town! Easy to make and worry-free, these recipes can be made ahead so you can enjoy yourself the day of the event.
1. Jalapeno Ranch
You can’t go wrong with ranch, and this recipe is ranch to the next level with spice, lime juice, and cilantro. The thick sour cream base is the real secret here and it will only get better as it sits in the fridge.
2. Fiesta Pinwheels
For a cold appetizer that will keep the party going with every bite, try these fiesta pinwheels. Flavors of Mexico are wrapped up in a thin tortilla. Cream cheese adds creaminess and optional add-ins make it customizable!
3. Crisp Cucumber Salsa
Crisp, crunchy, and fresh – all words you want to describe a tangy cucumber salsa. Cucumber, tomatoes, and other veggies mixed with cumin and jalapenos for a twist on salsa that makes a perfect topper on a salty chip.
4. Cucumber Sandwiches
Have a tea party or looking for a way to feel fancy at home? Try these cucumber sandwiches! Creamy cream cheese and crisp cucumbers sit between fluffy bread for an appetizer you won’t be able to stop eating.
5. Dill Vegetable Dip
Dill and veggies go together like cookies and cream, and this recipe proves it. Not to mention that it’s one of the easiest cold appetizers you can make! It comes together in minutes and can be made healthier with unsweetened Greek yogurt and light mayo.
6. Phyllo Cup Crab Appetizers
Talk about class! These phyllo cup crab appetizers will have your guests feeling like they’re in the lap of luxury, all with a recipe you can make ahead of time. These cups are like tasty crab dip and a chip in one easy bite!
7. French Quarter Pecan Cheese Spread
Sweet, savory, and easy to make ahead of time? This recipe is a winner! Not only is this cheese spread simple, but it’s also classy. The unique combo of brown sugar, cream cheese, Worcestershire, mustard, and pecans is fantastic on a slightly sweet cracker.
8. Greek Layered Hummus Dip
Hummus is a tasty cold appetizer by itself, but this recipe takes the classic to the next level! It’s easy to make, relatively healthy, and goes great with a good pita chip. Plus, it looks gorgeous on any table.
9. Avocado Salsa
If you’re a fan of salsa and avocado, you’ll love this dish that brings together the best of both worlds! A yummy combo of chopped avocado, tomatoes, onions, lime juice, jalapeno, and cilantro is the ultimate cold appetizer atop a salty tortilla chip.
10. Cranberry Salsa
Cranberry salsa isn’t just a perfect appetizer for the holidays because of its color – the cool dish also tastes fantastic. The slight tartness of the cranberry and creaminess of cream cheese are unforgettable with chips and crackers of your choice.
11. Bavarian Beer Cheese Spread
If your next gathering is a celebration of Oktoberfest, this Bavarian spread will be a huge hit! It’s customizable with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beer, so don’t be afraid if you don’t drink beer. The cheesy goodness is incredible with a soft, salty pretzel bite.
12. Dill Pickle Cheese Ball
Last up is a classic with a twist – the dill pickle cheese ball. Dill pickles and cream cheese complement each other perfectly! It’s a clear show-stopper and easily one of the best ways to serve an unforgettable cheesy dip.
Appetizers are a must for any social gathering, and these cold recipes will steal the show! Whether you love savory or sweet, soft or crunchy, there is something here you will love.