When it comes to entertaining, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly crafted hors d’oeuvre to set the tone for a memorable evening. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, a wine and cheese night, or just want to impress your friends with a little something extra, these elegant bites are sure to impress. From classic combinations to modern twists, we’ve gathered 20 of the most mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres recipes out there, each one designed to delight the senses and leave your guests begging for more.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, showcasing an array of flavors, textures, and presentation styles that will inspire even the most discerning palates. From savory treats like Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Canapés and Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese to sweet and tangy delights like Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze and Cucumber and Hummus Tea Sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in this collection of elegant hors d’oeuvres recipes.
So go ahead, get inspired, and start planning your next soiree. Your guests will thank you!
Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Canapés
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized canapés featuring the rich flavors of smoked salmon, tangy cream cheese, and fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and chopped fresh dill until well combined.
3. Spread about 1 tsp of the cream cheese mixture onto each baguette slice, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Top each canapé with a spoonful of flaked smoked salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is lightly toasted.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
A sweet and savory twist on the classic date, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the smoky flavor of bacon and the creaminess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 log of goat cheese (chèvre)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and top each date with a small crumble of goat cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizers game with these bite-sized Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic Glaze (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Thread a tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto each toothpick.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Balsamic Glaze Recipe:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 10-15 minutes. Let cool before using.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Prosciutto and Melon Bites
This classic Italian combination of sweet melon and salty prosciutto is a match made in heaven. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe melon (such as cantaloupe or honeydew), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 slices of prosciutto, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the melon cubes on a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Place a piece of prosciutto on top of each melon cube.
3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is served chilled, making it perfect for hot summer days or anytime you want to impress your guests with a light and refreshing appetizer.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Parmesan
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful recipe featuring sautéed garlic and melted Parmesan cheese inside succulent mushroom caps. Perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the garlic mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the filling in each mushroom.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Puff Pastry Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
These savory pinwheels are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Flaky puff pastry, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese come together in harmony to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Spread the spinach-feta mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Brush the edges with olive oil and fold the pastry over the filling, forming a pinwheel shape.
6. Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Remoulade
Elevate your cocktail hour with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup cocktail sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cocktail sauce, horseradish, and lemon juice.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, stir in mayonnaise and parsley.
5. Arrange the shrimp on a platter or individual plates. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Enjoy your Spicy Shrimp Cocktail with Remoulade!
Cucumber and Hummus Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea time with these light and flavorful sandwiches that combine the coolness of cucumber, the creaminess of hummus, and the crunch of whole wheat bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade hummus
– 4 slices of whole wheat bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Spread a layer of hummus on each bread slice.
3. Top with a few cucumber slices, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cut off the crusts and cut the sandwiches into triangles or fingers.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Tips:
– For an extra burst of flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh mint on top of the hummus.
– Use leftover cucumber and hummus to create a delicious snack or appetizer.
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Elevate your party game with these bite-sized versions of the classic Beef Wellington. Tender beef, flaky puff pastry, and rich mushroom duxelles come together in a delightful mini format.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together beef strips and mushroom duxelles. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares (about 3 inches per side).
4. Place a spoonful of the beef-mushroom mixture in the center of each square. Brush edges with beaten egg.
5. Fold pastry over filling, forming a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Place mini Wellingtons on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
7. Brush tops with remaining egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or cozy nights in with this classic Italian-inspired appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the warm, savory goodness of bruschetta in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomato, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush toasted bread with olive oil and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (toast baguette), 2-3 minutes (assemble bruschetta)
Deviled Eggs with Truffle Oil
These luxurious deviled eggs get a sophisticated twist with the addition of truffle oil, perfect for your next gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon truffle oil
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re mostly smooth.
3. Stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add truffle oil and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Garnish with paprika or chopped chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just prepare and serve.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board with Honeycomb
Elevate your entertaining game with this elegant cheese and charcuterie board, featuring the sweet surprise of honeycomb. Perfect for gatherings or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced
– 1 block of cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup of creamy brie cheese, softened
– 4-6 slices of cured ham (such as prosciutto or serrano)
– 1/4 cup of honeycomb pieces
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the sliced baguette on a large platter or board.
2. Place the cheddar cheese cubes and softened brie cheese around the bread.
3. Add the cured ham slices in a decorative pattern.
4. Scatter the honeycomb pieces throughout the board.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook, assemble-and-enjoy recipe.
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these mini crab cakes, packed with sweet and tender lumps of crab meat. Paired with a tangy lemon aioli, this duo is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon aioli (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, form mixture into mini crab cakes (about 1-inch diameter).
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry crab cakes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with lemon aioli.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts
Elevate your gathering game with this sweet and savory appetizer that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese, the sweetness of fig jam, and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 1 pound)
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread the fig jam over the top of the brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped thyme and walnuts over the fig jam.
5. Drizzle the honey over the top.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is softened and the crust is caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Phyllo Cups with Goat Cheese and Caramelized Onions
These flaky, buttery cups filled with tangy goat cheese and sweet caramelized onions make a perfect appetizer or snack. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying these delightful treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
5. Brush the top of each square with melted butter.
6. Place a spoonful of goat cheese in the center of each square, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions.
7. Fold the phyllo squares over the filling to form cups, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Place cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple recipe that combines tender chicken, crunchy satay, and a rich peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed peanuts and cashews (for serving)
– Satay skewers ( wooden or metal)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic. Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto satay skewers.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine peanut sauce ingredients (recipe not included) in a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Serve grilled chicken with peanut sauce, garnished with mixed peanuts and cashews.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Shrimp Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets combine the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a bowl, mix together avocado, shrimp, garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a spoonful of the avocado-shrimp mixture onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanakopita Triangles
These crispy, savory triangles are filled with a delicious mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and spices. Perfect for snacks or as an appetizer, they’re sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Layer phyllo dough with triangles of the spinach mixture, leaving a small border around each triangle.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Lobster Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized lobster rolls that pack a punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound lobster meat, diced
– 4 mini hamburger buns (about 2 inches in diameter)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lobster chunks.
2. Split the mini buns in half lengthwise.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the lobster mixture onto each bun half.
4. Top with a sprinkle of chives or scallions.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required – these are assembled, not cooked.
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Crostini
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Crostini: A Sweet and Savory Combination
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive crostini recipe, featuring roasted red peppers and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 log of goat cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers: Place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
3. Let peppers cool, then peel off skin, remove seeds, and slice into strips.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted crostini with roasted red pepper strips, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these elegant hors d’oeuvres recipes. From classic combinations like prosciutto and melon, to more adventurous options like shrimp cocktail with spicy remoulade, there’s something for everyone. Mini caprese skewers and stuffed mushrooms offer a taste of Italy, while phyllo cups filled with goat cheese and caramelized onions add a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add some sophistication to your snacks, these 20 recipes are sure to delight.
