When it comes to hosting gatherings or parties, having a variety of small plates that are both delicious and easy to grab can make all the difference. Instead of serving a single main course, offering a selection of small plates allows your guests to graze and mingle while enjoying a range of flavors and textures. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering small plate recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
From classic combinations like bruschetta with tomato and basil to more adventurous options like spicy tuna tartare on crispy wontons, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? These bite-sized treats are perfect for a party of any size, from intimate gatherings to large-scale events. Whether you’re a seasoned entertainer or just starting to host friends at your place, these small plates are sure to become new favorites.
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
A classic Italian appetizer that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the crunch of toasted bread. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Brush the top of each slice with a little olive oil.
5. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto the bread slices.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cakes packed with flavor and served with a tangy lemon aioli. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab.
3. Cover mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. When ready to cook, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, drop crab mixture into the hot oil, leaving space between each cake.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with Lemon Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including refrigeration time)
Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese and Herbs
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a rich cream cheese and herb mixture. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button, cremini, or portobello)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, chives, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Stuff each cap with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe: Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears. Thin slices of prosciutto add a salty, savory flavor to the tender, slightly charred asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Trim the ends of the asparagus spears and place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Cut the prosciutto slices into smaller pieces, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.
6. Wrap each asparagus spear with a piece of prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip in Bread Bowls
Perfect for a casual gathering or game-day party, this creamy spinach and artichoke dip served in warm bread bowls is an irresistible treat. With just the right balance of flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 hoagie rolls or bread bowls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the dip mixture to a baking dish or individual ramekins.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the hoagie rolls in half and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Serve the warm dip in the toasted bread bowls.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes + additional 10-12 minutes for bread bowls
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each toothpick.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and spicy take on traditional tuna tartare, served atop crispy wonton chips. This flavorful combination is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade tuna, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20-25 wonton wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and sriracha sauce. Mix until well combined.
2. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Fry wonton wrappers in batches until crispy, about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve tuna tartare on top of fried wontons and garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goat Cheese and Fig Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet elegant recipe combining the creaminess of goat cheese, the sweetness of figs, and the crunch of toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, mix crumbled goat cheese with honey and balsamic glaze.
5. Top toasted baguette rounds with the goat cheese mixture, followed by chopped figs.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (toasting the baguette)
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Almonds
A unique and delicious appetizer or snack that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the smoky flavor of bacon and crunch of almonds. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
– Optional: brown sugar or honey for added sweetness
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stuff each date with a few pieces of almond, leaving room at the top.
3. Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste. If desired, drizzle with brown sugar or honey for added sweetness.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your slider game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and crispy buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Caramelized onions (see below)
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 mini patties.
4. Grill patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, topping with caramelized onions and any desired toppings.
Caramelized Onions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until dark golden brown, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing shrimp cocktail recipe, featuring a tangy and flavorful homemade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ice cubes (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix gently until the shrimp are well coated.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, place ice cubes in a shallow dish or glass. Arrange the shrimp mixture on top of the ice.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (prep and chill time)
Parmesan Crisps with Arugula and Prosciutto
These crispy, flavorful bites are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, featuring the tanginess of Parmesan cheese, peppery arugula, and salty prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4-6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese and olive oil until well combined. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a thin layer.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, arrange prosciutto slices on a plate.
5. Remove the Parmesan crisps from the oven and let cool slightly. Break into shards.
6. Top prosciutto with arugula leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful dip, perfect for any gathering. Roasting red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savory hummus.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita chips or crudités for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Let peppers cool, then peel off skin, discarding it, and chop into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
5. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil to emulsify the mixture.
6. Serve with pita chips or crudités.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Smoked Salmon Canapés with Dill Cream Cheese
Elevate your gathering with these elegant and flavorful bites featuring smoked salmon and a tangy dill cream cheese spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) package of smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 crackers or toasted baguette slices
– 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and chopped dill until well combined.
3. Arrange the crackers or baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker or baguette slice.
5. Top each canapé with a spoonful of flaked smoked salmon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the crackers are lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Discover the flavors of Southeast Asia with this classic dish that combines marinated chicken skewers with a creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp coriander
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut Sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup coconut cream, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, cumin, and coriander. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare Peanut Sauce by whisking together all ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve skewers with warm peanut sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
These mini quiches are perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger gathering. With the flavors of spinach, feta, and eggs, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 mini muffin tin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and milk.
3. Add spinach and feta cheese; stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into mini muffin tin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
6. Allow quiches to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic butter and a hint of lemon, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and swirl until melted.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado and Black Bean Salsa with Tortilla Chips
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and nutritious salsa, perfect for dipping tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine avocado, black beans, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
2. Mash the mixture with a fork until slightly chunky.
3. Stir in garlic and cilantro.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
Elevate your party game with these tender pulled pork sliders served atop a refreshing coleslaw. Perfect for casual gatherings and backyard barbecues, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw ingredients (see below)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Coleslaw Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
3. Shred pork with two forks and mix with BBQ sauce.
4. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
5. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled pork onto buns.
6. Top with coleslaw and pickle slices (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) + assembly time
Cheese and Charcuterie Board with Assorted Crackers
Create a stunning cheese and charcuterie board with an assortment of crackers to complement your favorite cheeses and meats. This effortless recipe is perfect for any gathering or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 types of cheese (e.g., cheddar, gouda, brie, blue)
– 2-3 types of charcuterie (e.g., prosciutto, salami, ham)
– Assorted crackers (e.g., water crackers, wheat thins, olive oil crackers)
– Fresh grapes or berries
– Fig jam or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese and charcuterie on a large platter or board.
2. Place assorted crackers around the board, leaving space for the cheese and meat.
3. Add fresh grapes or berries for a pop of color and sweetness.
4. If desired, drizzle fig jam or honey over the cheese and meats.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these delicious small plate recipes perfect for entertaining. From classic combinations like bruschetta and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, to unique twists like spicy tuna tartare on crispy wontons and roasted red pepper hummus with pita chips, there’s something for everyone. These bite-sized dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or a casual gathering, these 20 small plate recipes will help make your event unforgettable.
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