18 Delicious Lite Appetizer Recipes Healthy

When it comes to hosting a gathering or party, the key to success lies not just in the main course, but also in the appetizers. A delicious and healthy start to the meal can set the tone for a fantastic evening with friends and family. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering lite appetizer recipes that are not only scrumptious but also nutritious. From classic caprese skewers to zucchini roll-ups with herbed cheese, and from shrimp ceviche cups to roasted garlic white bean dip, these bite-sized treats will satisfy your taste buds while keeping you on track with your dietary goals.

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Elevate the classic Caprese salad to a new level by skewering fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, then drizzle with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cheese is melted and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and a pinch of sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half (about 5 minutes).
6. Serve Caprese skewers with warm balsamic glaze spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Avocado Cucumber Bites

These bite-sized appetizers combine the creamy richness of avocado with the refreshing crunch of cucumber, all wrapped up in a crunchy wonton wrapper. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light and healthy snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mashed avocado and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange the wonton wrappers on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the avocado mixture onto the center of each wrapper.
4. Place one or two cucumber slices on top of the avocado.
5. Fold the wonton wrapper into a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal the filling inside.
6. Brush the tops with lime juice and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the wrappers are lightly browned and crispy.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Zucchini Roll-Ups with Herbed Cheese

A delicious and healthy twist on traditional appetizers or snacks.

Ingredients:

– 4 medium zucchinis
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, parsley, dill, and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Place a tablespoon of the herbed cheese mixture onto the center of each zucchini round.
5. Roll up each zucchini round tightly, starting from one end.
6. Place roll-ups seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until zucchinis are tender and cheese is melted.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Shrimp Ceviche Cups

A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, these bite-sized cups are perfect for a light and flavorful snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– 12-15 small cups or ramekins

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
4. Divide the ceviche mixture evenly among the cups or ramekins.

Cooking Time: None – this is a raw dish!

Greek Yogurt Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Elevate your snack or appetizer game with this easy and refreshing recipe! Sweet cherry tomatoes filled with a tangy Greek yogurt mixture make for the perfect bite.

Ingredients:

– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Stuff each cherry tomato half with the yogurt mixture, dividing it evenly among the tomatoes.
4. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is lightly set.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles

A flavorful and elegant appetizer or snack, these Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta, salt, and pepper.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into triangles.
4. Brush edges of each triangle with olive oil.
5. Place a tablespoon of the spinach-feta mixture onto the wide end of each triangle.
6. Fold the triangle over the filling, forming a triangular shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Arrange triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Mini Bell Pepper Nachos

Add a pop of color and flavor to your snack time with these Mini Bell Pepper Nachos!

Ingredients:

– 12-15 mini bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup cooked ground beef or beans (your choice)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the mini bell peppers and remove seeds. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Divide the shredded cheese into two portions. Sprinkle half of it evenly among the peppers.
5. Add your choice of cooked ground beef or beans to each pepper, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and peppers are tender.
8. Remove from oven and top with optional toppings (if using). Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Lite Crab Salad Cucumber Boats

Refresh your taste buds with this light and refreshing salad, perfect for a hot summer day. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 cucumber boats (see note)
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise, scoop out the insides, and set aside.
3. In a bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and dill. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab.
4. Place the cucumber boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the crab mixture into each cucumber boat.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cucumbers are slightly tender.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Baked Sweet Potato Rounds with Hummus

Discover a delightful twist on traditional snacks with these baked sweet potato rounds served with creamy hummus. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack for the whole family.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup hummus
– Optional: paprika, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the sweet potatoes.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft when pierced with a fork.
4. Let cool slightly before slicing into rounds.
5. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and salt.
6. Brush both sides of the sweet potato rounds with the oil mixture.
7. Arrange sweet potato rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
9. Serve warm with hummus and optional garnishes.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour

Grilled Pineapple Salsa with Tortilla Chips

Add a sweet and tangy twist to your snack time with this refreshing Grilled Pineapple Salsa recipe, perfect for dipping crunchy tortilla chips.

Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill pineapple chunks for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
3. In a medium bowl, combine grilled pineapple, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve salsa warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips for dipping.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip Recipe

A creamy and aromatic dip that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the simplicity of cannellini beans.

Ingredients:
• 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (15.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Allow roasted garlic to cool, then peel and mash into a smooth paste.
4. In a medium bowl, combine mashed garlic, cannellini beans, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Mix well to combine, then serve at room temperature with crudités or crackers.

Cooking Time:
• 30-40 minutes for roasting the garlic
• 10-15 minutes to prepare and mix the dip

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Canapés

Elevate your gathering with these refreshing, flavorful bites that combine the richness of smoked salmon with the coolness of cucumber and creaminess of dill.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers or toasted baguette slices for serving

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked salmon, Greek yogurt, and chopped dill.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Spoon the salmon-yogurt mixture over the cucumber.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.

Lite Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

A healthier twist on traditional buffalo wings, these cauliflower bites are a flavorful and satisfying snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, hot sauce, and ranch seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Spread cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Watermelon Feta Mint Skewers

Savor the sweet and tangy combination of watermelon, feta cheese, mint, and balsamic glaze in these easy-to-make skewers.

Ingredients:

– 1 large watermelon, cubed
– 1 block of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread watermelon cubes, feta cheese crumbles, and mint leaves onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the watermelon is slightly caramelized.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (or reduced vinegar) and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Mini Peppers

A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of black beans.

Ingredients:

– 12 mini bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the mini peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a medium bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
4. Stuff each pepper with about 1/4 cup of the quinoa mixture.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Lite Tuna Tartare on Endive Leaves

This refreshing appetizer is perfect for warm weather gatherings. With its light and zesty flavors, it’s a great way to start any meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of low-mercury tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 endive leaves

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the tuna, lemon juice, and parsley until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange the endive leaves on a serving plate or platter.
4. Spoon a small amount of the tuna mixture onto each endive leaf.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.

Baked Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki

Baked Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki Recipe

A refreshing twist on traditional fritters, these baked zucchini fritters are perfect for a light and crispy snack or side dish. The tangy tzatziki sauce adds a creamy and cooling contrast to the savory fritters.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• Tzatziki sauce ingredients (see below)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Lite Guacamole Stuffed Mushrooms

Elevate your snack game with this creative twist on traditional guacamole! Fresh mushrooms are filled with a creamy, healthier take on the classic dip.

Ingredients:

– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado, low-fat sour cream, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with about 1 tablespoon of the guacamole mixture.
4. Top each mushroom with chopped cilantro.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in delicious and healthy appetizers! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that are perfect for your next gathering. From Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze to Lite Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, these bite-sized treats offer a flavorful and nutritious start to any meal. With options ranging from veggie-based dishes like Zucchini Roll-Ups with Herbed Cheese to seafood-inspired appetizers like Shrimp Ceviche Cups, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing option or a satisfying snack, these recipes are sure to impress your guests while keeping things healthy and tasty.