Parties just got a whole lot more delicious! When it comes to hosting friends and family, we know that having a variety of tasty, bite-sized options on hand can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 19 mouthwatering small bites recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. From savory snacks like Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze and Spinach and Feta Phyllo Cups, to sweet treats like Mini Chocolate Mousse Cups with Whipped Cream, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll take you through each of these recipes in detail, including step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for serving. Whether you’re planning a party for 10 or 100, these small bites are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the good times roll!
Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Transform the classic Caprese salad into bite-sized, flavorful mini skewers perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and fresh basil leaves (if using) onto toothpicks.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until cheese is melted and slightly caramelized.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the skewers during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spinach and Feta Phyllo Cups
A delightful Greek-inspired appetizer or snack, these Spinach and Feta Phyllo Cups are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen section)
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush the dough lightly with melted butter or olive oil.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the spinach-feta mixture onto one end of the phyllo sheet, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
6. Fold the phyllo in half over the filling to form a triangle, pressing gently to seal.
7. Place the cup on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors. Crispy bacon, creamy goat cheese, and naturally sweet dates come together in a delightful bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
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 with olive oil and sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the dates.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
A delightful twist on the classic crab cake, these bite-sized morsels pack a punch of flavor and are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into mini patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled with mini crab cakes.
Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli
A delicious twist on traditional fritters, these zucchini bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with a creamy garlic aioli for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli ingredients:
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine zucchini, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add buttermilk and stir until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the zucchini mixture into the oil.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve with Garlic Aioli (see below).
Garlic Aioli:
1. In a bowl, mix together garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce
This Southeast Asian-inspired recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken and creamy peanut sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into skewer-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the satay for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Peanut Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with grilled satay.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including marinating time)
Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese and Herbs
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple and flavorful recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as button or cremini)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, chives, and garlic until smooth.
3. Wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly among the mushrooms, spooning it into the caps.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the filled mushrooms and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is lightly browned and the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Gruyere
These individual quiches are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. With the creamy goodness of Gruyere cheese and the earthy flavor of spinach, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought), cut into 12 equal pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, sauté the chopped spinach with butter until wilted.
3. Roll out each piece of pie crust to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place a tablespoon of Gruyere cheese and a spoonful of cooked spinach onto one half of the dough.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with milk and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your vegetable game with this elegant and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish, featuring crispy prosciutto wrapped around tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of 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 the asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Wrap each asparagus spear with a prosciutto slice, securing with a toothpick if needed.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor and texture.
– Don’t overwrap the asparagus, leaving a small stem exposed.
– Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or use as a side dish.
Sweet Potato Bites with Avocado and Salsa
A delightful appetizer or snack that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creamy avocado, and spicy salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy get-together with friends or family.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
3. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the sweet potatoes are baking, mix together the diced avocado and salsa in a small bowl.
6. Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before serving. Top each bite with a spoonful of the avocado-salsa mixture.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheese and Charcuterie Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
A sweet and savory twist on classic appetizers, these bite-sized cherry tomatoes are filled with a rich blend of cheese and charcuterie.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of prosciutto or serrano ham, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff each tomato with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture.
5. Top each tomato with a slice of prosciutto or serrano ham, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Taco Cups with Ground Beef and Guacamole
Savor the flavors of Mexico in these bite-sized taco cups filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy guacamole, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and taco seasoning; stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the ground beef mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with a dollop of guacamole and add your desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including prep time)
Parmesan Crisps with Herb Dip
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Parmesan crisps paired with a bright and zesty herb dip. Perfect for parties or a quick pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the dip:
+ 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough into thin sheets and cut into desired shapes.
5. Fry the crisps for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Drain on paper towels.
7. For the dip, mix all ingredients in a bowl and season to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes frying time)
Shrimp Cocktail Shooters with Spicy Cocktail Sauce
A twist on the classic shrimp cocktail, these bite-sized shooters pack a punch with spicy cocktail sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup cocktail sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, cocktail sauce, hot sauce, lime juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a cold appetizer.
Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
A flavorful and crunchy twist on traditional spring rolls, these vegetable-packed treats are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts, scallions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger over medium heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place the spring rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Beef Wellingtons with Mushroom Duxelles
A bite-sized twist on the classic Beef Wellington, these Mini Beef Wellingtons are perfect for a dinner party or special occasion. Tender beef and mushroom duxelles wrapped in flaky puff pastry – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see below for recipe)
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mushroom Duxelles:
– 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place a beef strip in the center of each pastry square, leaving a 1-inch border around the beef.
4. Spoon a small amount of mushroom duxelles over the beef.
5. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush tops with remaining egg.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika and Chives
Elevate the classic deviled egg with the smoky flavor of paprika and the freshness of chives.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. In the bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle the chopped chives on top of each deviled egg.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including preparation)
Pesto Pinwheels with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on the classic pinwheel, these bite-sized treats combine the richness of pesto with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 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 to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, cream cheese, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a pinwheel shape. Brush with egg wash for golden brown color.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Chocolate Mousse Cups with Whipped Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats that combine rich chocolate mousse and fluffy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg whites, sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Divide the mousse among the mini muffin cups, filling about 2/3 of the way full.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
7. Top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on refrigeration time)
Summary
Get ready to impress your party guests with these 19 delicious small bites recipes! From classic Caprese skewers to stuffed mushrooms and mini quiches, there’s something for everyone. Other mouth-watering options include bacon-wrapped dates, crab cakes with remoulade sauce, and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears. For a sweet treat, try the cheese and charcuterie-stuffed cherry tomatoes or mini chocolate mousse cups. With flavors ranging from savory to sweet, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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