When it comes to hosting outdoor gatherings, having a variety of delicious and easy-to-eat finger foods on hand can make all the difference. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a casual game-day gathering with friends, these bite-sized treats are sure to please. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipe ideas that are perfect for your next outdoor soiree.
From classic deviled eggs and mini quiches to more adventurous options like smoked salmon pinwheels and spicy sriracha popcorn chicken bites, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each of these recipes is easy to make in advance and transport-friendly, making them ideal for impromptu gatherings or events where you need to bring your own grub.
So go ahead and get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious finger food picnic recipes!
Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Mini Caprese Skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, all tied together with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 10-12 bamboo skewers
• Balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
2. Repeat the pattern until all ingredients are used up, leaving a small space at the top of each skewer.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the Mini Caprese Skewers just before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized appetizers are best served immediately, so gather your friends and enjoy!
Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles
These crispy phyllo triangles are filled with a savory blend of spinach, feta cheese, and spices. Perfect for parties or as a snack, they’re easy to make and will surely 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 olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or other herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the spinach mixture, folding into triangles as you go.
5. Place triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Deviled Eggs with Paprika
Add a pop of color and flavor to your deviled eggs with this simple recipe that adds a sprinkle of paprika for an elegant touch. Perfect for parties, picnics, or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 teaspoons paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop the yolks into a bowl and mash with a fork until smooth.
3. Add mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish to the yolks. Mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of paprika on top of each deviled egg for added color and flavor.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe does not require cooking beyond boiling the eggs.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy bacon, creamy goat cheese, and natural sweetness from dates. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each date with a piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the honey over the dates and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each date with crumbled goat cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
These crispy spring rolls filled with a colorful mix of vegetables are the perfect snack or appetizer. Serve them with a side of creamy peanut dipping sauce for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
For the Spring Rolls:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a spring roll wrapper in the water for about 30 seconds, or until soft and pliable.
3. Assemble the filling by placing it in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 350°F.
7. Fry the spring rolls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain the spring rolls on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Mini Quiches Lorraine
These mini quiches are the perfect combination of flaky crust, creamy eggs, and savory bacon. They’re easy to make and ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into 12 equal squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. In the center of each square, place a spoonful of diced bacon, a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese, and a small amount of beaten eggs.
5. Fold pastry over filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Salad Bites with Cucumber Cups
These bite-sized Greek salad cups are perfect for a quick snack or light lunch. The combination of tangy feta, crunchy cucumber, and savory olives is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp. of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
2. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, olives, red onion, and parsley.
3. Stuff each cucumber cup with the Greek salad mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready in just a few minutes.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Pinwheels: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pinwheels!
These bite-sized pinwheels are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer, combining the rich flavors of smoked salmon with cream cheese and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup of smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 large flour tortilla (about 10 inches)
– Optional: lemon slices and capers for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, smoked salmon, dill, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Roll the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact pinwheel shape.
4. Slice into 8-10 equal pieces. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These pinwheels are ready to serve as is.
Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes with Herbed Cheese
A delicious and elegant appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines sweet cherry tomatoes with creamy herbed cheese for a flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, and chives until well combined.
3. Spoon the cheese mixture into each cherry tomato half, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Parmesan and Garlic Cheese Straws
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy straws infused with the rich flavors of parmesan and garlic. Perfect for parties or movie nights, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt, 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 Parmesan cheese and garlic.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Brush with softened butter.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan-garlic mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold edges up over filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Cut into strips and place on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Satay Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Experience the flavors of Southeast Asia with these aromatic chicken satay skewers served with a creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and vegetable oil.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade; mix well.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Peanut Sauce (mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
These bite-sized cornbread muffins are infused with the warmth of honey and perfect for snacking or as a side dish. A pat of creamy honey butter takes them to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Honey for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, egg, and buttermilk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with a drizzle of honey (about 1 tablespoon per pat).
2. Serve warm muffins with a pat of honey butter on top.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your springtime side dish with the simplicity of prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears. This elegant appetizer or main course is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place an asparagus spear on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Wrap one slice of prosciutto around the middle of each asparagus spear, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado and Shrimp Salad Cups
These bite-sized salad cups are a refreshing twist on traditional seafood salads. With the creamy texture of avocado, succulent shrimp, and tangy dressing, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, cooked and chilled
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 cups mini wonton wrappers
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the salad mixture into each wonton wrapper.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in under 10 minutes.
Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these creamy, cheesy, and flavorful stuffed mushrooms. Perfect for a quick dinner or a party starter!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps by gently wiping away any dirt or debris with a damp cloth.
3. In a bowl, mix together pesto, mozzarella cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pesto-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Popcorn Chicken Bites
Get ready to level up your snack game with these addictive Spicy Sriracha Popcorn Chicken Bites! Crispy chicken bites tossed in a spicy and savory mixture of sriracha, popcorn, and herbs make for the perfect party appetizer or quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together popcorn kernels and sriracha sauce.
6. Toss cooked chicken with the popcorn-sriracha mixture until well coated.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hummus and Veggie Pinwheel Sandwiches
Transform your lunchtime with these flavorful and healthy pinwheels, packed with creamy hummus and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick snack or meal on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Assorted veggies, such as cucumber slices, carrot sticks, bell peppers, sprouts, etc.
– Optional: feta cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine hummus ingredients; blend until smooth.
2. Arrange veggies on one side of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of hummus on the other side of the tortilla.
4. Roll up tightly, but gently, to avoid crushing the filling.
5. Slice into pinwheels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and go!
Mini Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your sliders game with these bite-sized beef beauties topped with sweet and savory caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Caramelized onions (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles
Caramelized Onions:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 12-15 mini patties.
4. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a patty on each bun and topping with caramelized onions.
Caramelized Onion Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your next gathering with these vibrant and delectable shrimp skewers, bursting with the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add shrimp and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp per skewer.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with Almonds
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent treat that combines sweet strawberries, rich chocolate, and crunchy almonds. Perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh strawberries
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Rinse the strawberries and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Roll the chocolate-covered strawberry in sliced almonds, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack set over parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
7. Just before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests at your next outdoor gathering with these delicious finger food recipes. From classic deviled eggs and mini quiches to unique twists like prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and spicy sriracha popcorn chicken bites, there’s something for everyone. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a picnic or backyard BBQ, and can be customized to fit your theme and flavor preferences. Whether you’re serving 10 or 100, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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