Entertaining friends and family doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. With these 20 delicious small plate recipes, you can serve up a variety of flavors and textures without breaking a sweat. From classic combinations like prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and caprese skewers with balsamic glaze, to more adventurous options like shrimp cocktail with spicy dipping sauce and mini tacos with pulled pork and pineapple salsa, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, game day gathering, or just need some inspiration for a quick weeknight snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to please. And the best part? They’re all surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these 20 small plate recipes, including tips for serving and presentation. From savory to sweet, and everything in between, get ready to impress your guests with these tasty tidbits!
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
This simple yet flavorful Italian appetizer is a staple for any gathering. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese come together to create a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture onto each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top each bruschetta with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your gatherings with these bite-sized crab cakes and tangy lemon aioli, perfect for a quick and delicious start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Using your hands or a spoon, shape mixture into small patties (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
3. Fry crab cakes in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve warm with Lemon Aioli, made by whisking together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory recipe featuring earthy mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of garlic, herbs, and cheese. Perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button or cremini work well)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, parsley, and cheese.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and remove stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the garlic-herb mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your meals with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the salty goodness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6-8 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. Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Place a slice of prosciutto around each asparagus spear, leaving some overlap.
5. Drizzle the asparagus and prosciutto with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with this colorful and flavorful Caprese skewer recipe, topped with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties or as a quick weeknight dinner.
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 (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate cherry tomatoes, mozzarella rounds, and basil leaves on each skewer.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cheese is melted and slightly charred.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip in Mini Bread Bowls
Elevate your snack game with this creamy spinach and artichoke dip served in mini bread bowls, perfect for parties or gatherings. This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini bread bowls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
4. Meanwhile, toast the mini bread bowls in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Spoon the spinach and artichoke dip into the toasted bread bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive appetizer that combines the sweetness of dates with the savory flavor of goat cheese and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stuff each date with a small amount of goat cheese.
3. Wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions
Mini Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions Recipe
These bite-sized sliders are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Tender beef, crispy buns, and sweet caramelized onions come together to create a delicious combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 small hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly into a patty.
4. Place the patties onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. While the beef is cooking, caramelize the onions by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
7. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked patty onto each bun, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions. Garnish with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Elevate your cocktail hour with this refreshing shrimp dish paired with a spicy dipping sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, prepare the Spicy Dipping Sauce by mixing all ingredients together in a small bowl.
4. Serve chilled shrimp cocktail with warm pita chips or crackers, accompanied by the spicy dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Cheese and Charcuterie Board with Honey and Nuts
A classic cheese and charcuterie board gets a sweet twist with the addition of honey and nuts. This easy-to-assemble board is perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cheddar cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup of assorted charcuterie (e.g., prosciutto, salami)
– 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
– 1-2 tablespoons of honey
– Fresh fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the sliced cheese and charcuterie on a large platter or board.
2. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cheese and meats.
3. Drizzle the honey over the nuts and cheese, allowing it to pool slightly.
4. Add fresh fruit, if desired, for a pop of color and added sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta: A Bite-Sized Delight
Fried Calamari with Marinara Sauce
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Italian appetizer, featuring tender calamari rings coated in a crispy batter and served with a tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and cut squid (calamari)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
3. Dip each calamari ring into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated calamari in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on frying time.
Avocado and Smoked Salmon Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy, savory, and visually stunning crostini featuring the richness of smoked salmon paired with the velvety smoothness of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices and toasted
– 1/4 cup crème fraîche
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each toasted baguette slice.
3. Top with flaked smoked salmon.
4. Dollop crème fraîche over the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep time: 5 minutes)
Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese
A sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. These bite-sized peppers are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 mini bell peppers (any color)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cream cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or casual dinner parties with this classic Southeast Asian dish, featuring tender and flavorful chicken skewers served with a rich and nutty peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– For the peanut sauce:
+ 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
+ 1/4 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup coconut milk
+ 2 tbsp brown sugar
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated chicken onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush grill or grill pan with vegetable oil and cook satay for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine peanut sauce ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
6. Serve warm satay with peanut sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Crisps with Herbs
Elevate your snacking game with these crispy, cheesy, and herbaceous Parmesan crisps. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a topping for soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add olive oil and chopped herbs to the mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds, leaving space between each crisp.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Tacos with Pulled Pork and Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your taco game with these bite-sized treats, featuring tender pulled pork and a tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork (cooked and shredded)
– 12-15 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble mini tacos by spooning pulled pork onto each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of pineapple salsa.
5. Serve immediately, with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including prep time)
Greek Salad Bites in Cucumber Cups
Elevate your salad game with these refreshing Greek-inspired bites, perfectly portioned in cucumber cups. Perfect for a light and healthy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe cucumbers
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the cucumbers into 1-inch cups.
3. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, and red onion.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the salad mixture into each cucumber cup.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
A flavorful and impressive appetizer or main course that’s ready in just a few minutes! Succulent shrimp are marinated in a mixture of garlic, butter, lemon juice, and herbs, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, and paprika.
2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each one.
3. Brush the garlic-butter mixture evenly over both sides of the shrimp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Mini Lobster Rolls with Lemon Aioli
Mini Lobster Rolls with Lemon Aioli
These bite-sized lobster rolls are a twist on the classic seafood treat. Succulent lobster meat is lightly dressed and nestled into tender buns, then topped with a zesty lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat
– 4 soft buns (such as dinner rolls or hot dog buns)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon aioli (recipe below)
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Split the buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Divide the lobster meat among the buns, spreading it evenly.
5. Top each bun with a dollop of lemon aioli.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious small plate recipes perfect for entertaining. From classic bruschetta and mini crab cakes, to unique stuffed mushrooms and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, there’s something for everyone. Mini quiches, cheese and charcuterie boards, and spicy shrimp cocktail are just a few of the tasty options. Plus, bite-sized tacos with pulled pork and pineapple salsa, and Greek salad bites in cucumber cups will be a hit. These easy-to-make recipes are sure to satisfy any appetite at your next gathering.
