It’s almost party time! Need a little help deciding which appetizers to serve? Here are a few tips to help you create an appetizer menu with a little something for everyone — from hungry carnivores to hard-core vegans.
Mix it up
Remember to offer a variety of appetizers with different flavors, colors, textures and temperatures. A good rule of thumb is to serve an appetizer from each of these categories: cheese or antipasti plate, dips and spreads, cold finger foods and hot bites. By including a range of choices, you’ll be sure to offer something appealing for all of your guests.
Get inspired
Take advantage of the many online resources to find appetizing inspiration. Turn to Pinterest, Epicurious.com or your favorite food blogs, and do a quick search to reveal the amazing creativity in the delicious world of appetizers. Find one or two inspirational ideas, and use them as a jumping off point. While you do want to offer variety, flavors should complement each other.
Choose a theme
Having a theme for your party will provide direction to the menu, as well as the music, decor and even party attire. A Mexican fiesta calls for margaritas and spicy bites. Retro holiday parties might lead you to re-imagine classic appetizers like deviled eggs and cheese balls, to mix up some ice-cold martinis and download your favorite Frank Sinatra tunes.
Presentation
The right presentation can elevate even the simplest appetizer. Mini serving vessels not only have a great visual impact, they also make it easy for guests to take and eat a single portion. Use plastic shot glasses to serve soup topped with a tiny sandwich triangle, or veggies standing upright in dip. If utensils are needed, add a mini bamboo spoon or fork to each serving. Wooden or bamboo skewers are also a fun way to serve up appetizers like caprese on a stick, using half a cherry tomato (flat side down), topped with a folded piece of basil and a cube of fresh mozzarella.
Go vegan
There’s a good chance you’ll have at least one vegetarian or gluten-free eater at your party. Choose from the many healthy and delicious options, and serve some vegan and gluten-free munchies. Use the link below to find recipes, including gluten-free baked brie, fig and rosemary and gluten-free lentil bruschetta.
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