When it comes to hosting a successful cocktail party, the key to success lies not just in the company you keep or the drinks you serve, but also in the delicious and visually appealing food that accompanies them. For any occasion, from holiday gatherings to corporate events, having a selection of elegant and easy-to-eat recipes at your fingertips can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering and impressive cocktail party recipes that are sure to delight your guests and leave them wanting more.
From savory bites like mini crab cakes with lemon aioli and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears, to sweet treats like truffle parmesan popcorn and chocolate-dipped strawberries, our recipe collection has something for every taste and preference. So whether you’re planning a sophisticated soiree or a fun and casual get-together, we’ve got you covered with these 20 elegant cocktail party recipes.
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli: A delightful appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of fresh crab, tangy lemon, and creamy aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (recipe below)
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Form into small patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the crab cakes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with Lemon Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of dates with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy bacon package. Perfect for parties or as a quick appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing and flavorful bites featuring smoked salmon, creamy cucumber, and crunchy capers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 4-6 seedless cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh dill (optional)
– Capers, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
2. Spoon a small amount of the yogurt mixture onto each cucumber slice, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
3. Top the yogurt with flaked smoked salmon, dividing it evenly among the slices.
4. Sprinkle capers over the salmon for added crunch and flavor.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes ( assembly only)
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Take it to the next level with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Alternate cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves on each skewer.
3. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve warm.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 5-7 minutes (depending on oven temperature)
Spicy Shrimp Cocktail Shooters
Elevate your cocktail hour with these bite-sized, spicy shrimp shooters that pack a punch of flavor. Perfect for small gatherings or as an appetizer for a larger party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup prepared cocktail sauce (such as Marie’s)
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ice
– Cocktail glass or shooter glasses
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cocktail sauce, hot sauce, and lime juice.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, fill each glass with ice and add 1-2 shrimp per shooter.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is an appetizer or snack.
Truffle Parmesan Popcorn
Elevate your snack game with this decadent Truffle Parmesan Popcorn recipe, perfect for movie nights or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, drizzle the truffle oil over the popped popcorn and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper evenly over the popcorn, tossing again to combine.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (including popping time)
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
A delicious and elegant side dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: olive oil, lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wrapped asparagus spears in a single layer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
This classic Italian appetizer is a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and easy-to-make snack that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with garlic and salt.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until toasted and crispy.
5. In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To assemble, place toasted bread slices on a serving plate and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato-basil mixture.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if using, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Beef Wellingtons
Mini Beef Wellingtons: Bite-Sized Delights of Flaky Pastry and Tender Beef
These adorable miniatures are perfect for parties or special occasions, offering the classic combination of beef, mushroom duxelles, and puff pastry in a compact, easy-to-eat format.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine beef, onion, flour, and egg; mix well.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture onto one half of each puff pastry rectangle.
4. Top with a small spoonful of mushroom duxelles.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic Herb Cream Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and savory recipe, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stemmed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped chives until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the filling and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Puff Pastry Cheese Straws
Elevate your gathering with these buttery, cheesy straws that are surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or other hard cheese)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 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 on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Mix grated cheese and softened butter in a bowl. Spread mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Roll pastry into a tight log shape, starting from one long edge. Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices.
5. Place straws on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each straw.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Savor the flavors of Southeast Asia with this classic street food recipe. Juicy chicken satay paired with a rich and creamy peanut sauce makes for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into skewers
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Chopped peanuts and toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender, combine chicken marinade ingredients; blend until smooth.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
4. Brush with marinade, then grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare peanut sauce by combining all sauce ingredients in a blender; blend until creamy.
6. Serve satay with warm peanut sauce and garnish with chopped peanuts and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Caviar
Elevate Your Brunch Game with Deviled Eggs and Caviar
These luxurious deviled eggs are the perfect addition to your next brunch or gathering. The combination of creamy egg yolks, tangy mustard, and salty caviar will impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup caviar (such as Ossetra or Sevruga)
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. In the bowl, combine the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Top each deviled egg with a small spoonful of caviar.
5. Garnish with chopped chives or paprika, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including preparation time)
Mini Lobster Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized lobster rolls that pack a punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 4 mini buns (soft, dinner roll-style)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Unsalted butter, softened (for greasing the buns)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a toaster oven or conventional oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Butter the insides of the mini buns with softened butter.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the lobster mixture onto each bun, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Place the mini rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly toasted and warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Goat Cheese and Fig Crostini
These sweet and savory crostini are perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack. A delicate balance of creamy goat cheese, caramelized figs, and crunchy baguette makes for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: balsamic glaze or honey for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a small amount of goat cheese onto each slice, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with a spoonful of caramelized figs and a sprinkle of thyme.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crusty and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Charcuterie Board with Artisan Meats and Cheeses
Elevate your gathering game with this visually stunning charcuterie board, featuring an array of artisanal meats and cheeses. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb assorted artisanal meats (e.g., prosciutto di Parma, salami, ham)
– 6 oz assorted artisanal cheeses (e.g., brie, chèvre, gouda)
– 1 cup mixed crackers and breadsticks
– 1/2 cup fresh grapes
– 1/4 cup dried figs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Arrange the meats on a large wooden board or platter.
2. Position the cheeses nearby, slightly overlapping the meats.
3. Scatter the crackers and breadsticks around the board.
4. Add the grapes, figs, and thyme in small clusters throughout the board.
5. Serve with lemon wedges for a pop of citrus flavor.
Cooking Time: None required! This charcuterie board is ready to assemble and serve.
Tuna Tartare in Wonton Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and flavorful tuna tartare recipe, served in crispy wonton cups. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick dinner party or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton cups (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Fold in chopped scallions.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture into wonton cups.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your cheese board game with this simple yet impressive recipe. Rich brie cheese, drizzled with honey and topped with crunchy walnuts, is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the brie cheese from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the brie, making sure to cover the entire surface.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the honey.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is softened and the honey is caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spanakopita Bites
Start your day with a Greek-inspired twist on the classic spinach and feta pie. These bite-sized Spanakopita are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg until well combined.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon small amounts of the spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around each bite.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines fresh strawberries and rich chocolate for a match made in heaven. Perfect for romantic occasions, parties, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 12 large strawberries
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or coconut oil)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the strawberries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening to thin out the chocolate slightly.
4. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
5. Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack set over a piece of parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Garnish with optional toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and enjoy.
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 elegant cocktail party recipes for every occasion. From savory appetizers like Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli and Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese, to sweet treats like Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries, there’s something for everyone. Impress your friends with creative bites like Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites, Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze, and Truffle Parmesan Popcorn. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to add some flair to your gatherings, these recipes are sure to delight.
