Quick and Easy Appetizers That Impress Every Time

Appetizers have always been my favorite party foods to make and eat. This has been my go-to list for everything from family holiday dinners to Hollywood events.

Now, I’m not saying every appetizer I make can be made in a snap. But there have been times when I’ve made 10-15 different apps in one night for hundreds of people, so at least half of them need to be quick and easy.

Quick and Easy Appetizers

Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Based on a Spanish Tapas! I have been made this appetizer more than any other because everyone always loves them. With only 3 ingredients, these bacon-wrapped stuffed dates are certainly one the easy hot appetizers ever. The combination of salty smoky bacon with sweet dates stuffed with nutty cheese is addictive.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe

Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups

Who can resist creamy melty brie in crunchy phyllo? Add some cranberries and pecans and you have the perfect holiday appetizer. Another longtime favorite, cranberry brie phyllo cups take just a few minutes to assemble and about 10 minutes to cook.
Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups Recipe

Maryland Crab Cakes

I learned this recipe from my mother-in-law who lived in Maryland. Granted, lump crab meat is not cheap. But since these crab cakes are baked, there’s no muss or fuss and it seems to justify the added expense. Just mix, shape, and pop them in the oven.
Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

Charcuterie Board

Let’s face it, some boards are more simple than others. But generally speaking, there’s no cooking or complex construction happening. Just some slicing and strategic placing. Even salami roses are easy and can be made ahead of time. For cheese selections and board tips click the links below.
Charcuterie Boards
Christmas Charcuterie Boards
French Cheese Board

Cretan Dakos Salad

More like a Greek Bruschetta than what Americans call a salad, this traditional Cretan dish is loaded with the fresh flavors of tomatoes, onions, and capers. Topped with Greek cheeses, the red and white colors make it perfect for Forth of July, Labor Day and Memorial Day BBQs and of course, Christmastime.
Cretan Dakos Salad Recipe
More Greek Appetizers

Watermelon-Feta Appetizer Bites

A few simple ingredients combined perfectly for another sweet and salty combo! Watermelon-feta bites are so pretty and elegant and one of the quickest on our list. A great potluck item and definitely a crowd pleaser!
Watermelon-Feta Appetizer Recipe

Smoked Fish Dip

Put it on crostini or serve it with vegetables or crackers, whichever you choose, your guests will love this fish dip!
Smoked Fish Dip Recipe

Prosciutto Asparagus Puff Pastry

Everyone in my family has a different favorite appetizer, and this one is my husband’s. I especially love serving these during the Christmas holidays. They have the red and green colors of the prosciutto and asparagus, and the puff-pastry wrap is like a candy cane. However, will also be appreciated all year long.
Prosciutto Asparagus Puff Pastry Recipe

Prosciutto-Wrapped Cantaloupe

Every time I serve prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe someone thinks I’m a genius. Even though it dates back to 2nd century Ancient Rome and is one of the most common appetizers of traditional Italian cuisine. It’s so simple, it doesn’t need a recipe. Just wrap a piece of prosciutto around a chunk or wedge of cantaloupe—Done!