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Home » Appetizers

35 Appetizers That Are More Exciting Than the Main Dish

Published: Mar 22, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Appetizers shouldn't be an afterthought—they should steal the show. These great bites bring bold flavors, fun textures, and serious crowd appeal. Whether you're hosting or just snacking, these recipes prove that the best bites often come before the main course. Who needs a main dish when the starters are this good?

An overhead image of tomato puff pastry tarts on a serving plate.

Tomato Puff Pastry Tart. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fried Avocado

A top view image of a bowl of avocado fries laying on a cooling rack.
Fried Avocado. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy baked avocado fries use just five ingredients for a simple yet flavorful bite. They’re a great way to start a meal with something crunchy and fun.
Get the Recipe: Fried Avocado

Instant Pot Queso

An image of queso in a bowl with nacho chips on the side and an instant pot on the back.
Instant Pot Queso. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Instant Pot queso comes together in just five minutes for a creamy, bold dip. Serve it with chips, and it might just outshine the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Queso

Veggie Pinwheels

An image of veggie pinwheels on a serving plate.
Veggie Pinwheels. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Veggie pinwheels are quick to make and perfect for any occasion. With fresh veggies and creamy hummus, they’re a great way to start a meal.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels

Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms

An overhead image of vegetarian stuffed mushrooms on a serving late.
Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed mushrooms filled with walnuts, cranberries, and cheese make an easy appetizer. They’re bite-sized, flavorful, and always disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Healthy Brussels sprouts and potato latkes.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These crispy latkes combine grated potatoes and shaved Brussels sprouts for a fresh take on a classic dish. Pair them with a creamy dip for a great starter.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Tomato Puff Pastry Tart

An overhead image of tomato puff pastry tarts on a serving plate.
Tomato Puff Pastry Tart. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A flaky puff pastry tart with creamy ricotta and caramelized tomatoes makes an easy, impressive appetizer. It’s light yet packed with flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Puff Pastry Tart

Pizza Sliders

An image of a hand picking up one pizza slider from the baking pan.
Pizza Sliders. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pizza sliders are cheesy, saucy, and packed with veggies for an easy, crowd-friendly snack. They’re a no-fuss way to kick off any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sliders

Vegan Cabbage Fritters

A bowl of vegan cabbage fritters on a wooden board.
Vegan Cabbage Fritters. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Crispy vegan fritters made with cabbage and onions are a great addition to any table. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cabbage Fritters

Baked Samosas

Top view image of healthy samosas on a black plate with additional samosas on a cooling rack.
Baked Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked or air-fried samosas bring bold flavors with a flaky crust and spiced filling. They’re a must-have for any appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas

Corn Nuggets

A bowl filled with golden, crispy corn nuggets.
Corn Nuggets. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These crispy corn nuggets are golden, cheesy, and quick to make. Whether baked or fried, they’re a great way to start any meal.
Get the Recipe: Corn Nuggets

Sweet Potato Skins

A horizontal image of baked sweet potato skins.
Sweet Potato Skins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Loaded sweet potato skins are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Topped with fresh herbs, they make a perfect starter for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Skins

Guacamole Salsa

A glass jar filled with guacamole salsa.
Guacamole Salsa. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Guacamole salsa blends creamy avocado with salsa verde for a bold, tangy dip. Whether paired with chips or drizzled on tacos, it’s a standout appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Salsa

Cauliflower Nuggets

A close up image of cauliflower nuggets on a plate with sauce on the side.
Cauliflower Nuggets. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy cauliflower nuggets have a golden breadcrumb crust that’s perfect for dipping. Easy to bake, fry, or air-fry, they’re an appetizer worth making.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Arepas Con Queso

Close up of arepas con queso on a wooden board.
Arepas Con Queso. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Arepas con queso mix masarepa, mozzarella, and butter for a golden, cheesy bite. They’re quick to make and a great addition to any appetizer lineup.
Get the Recipe: Arepas Con Queso

Veggie Quesadilla

An overhead image of veggie quesadilla on a serving board with a dip on the side.
Veggie Quesadilla. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and melty cheese come together in crispy quesadillas. Served with a creamy cilantro-lime sauce, they make a bold appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Quesadilla

Avocado Deviled Eggs

A close up image of avocado deviled eggs.
Avocado Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Avocado deviled eggs are a creamy spin on a classic. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re a great way to start any meal.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Deviled Eggs

Mushroom Tartlets

A close up image of a single mushroom tartlet on a serving plate.
Mushroom Tartlets. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom tartlets with flaky puff pastry and creamy cheese are ready in just 35 minutes. They’re an easy yet impressive appetizer for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tartlets

Samosa Chaat

Straight view of samosa chaat served in a white bowl and is topped with cilantro, red onions, and sev. On the sides is a samosa and a cup of drink.
Samosa Chaat. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Samosa chaat layers crispy samosas, chickpea curry, yogurt, and chutneys for a mix of bold flavors. Every bite is packed with crunch, spice, and freshness.
Get the Recipe: Samosa Chaat

Spicy Three Cheese Dip

A horizontal image of queso diablo in a serving bowl.
Spicy Three Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spicy cheese dip brings the heat with roasted peppers and melted cheeses. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s the perfect appetizer for any party.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Three Cheese Dip

Cream Cheese Corn Dip

An image of cream cheese corn dip in a baking dish with a spoon full of the dip rests on top.
Cream Cheese Corn Dip. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cream cheese corn dip blends sweet corn, spicy peppers, and gooey cheese into a bold appetizer. Baked to perfection, it’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Corn Dip

Vegetarian Nachos

A close up image of nachos with fresh toppings.
Vegetarian Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian nachos are loaded with cheese, crunchy chips, and endless topping possibilities. They’re easy to throw together and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Nachos

Air Fryer Nachos

A close-up imag of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, avocado chunks, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.
Air Fryer Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer nachos come together in under 10 minutes for a quick, crispy appetizer. With bold flavors and minimal prep, they’re perfect for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

Air Fryer Artichoke

A white plate with two grilled artichoke halves and a small stone bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Artichoke. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer artichokes are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Inspired by classic fried artichokes, they’re a fresh and simple appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Artichoke

Easy Air Fryer Samosas

An image of air fryer samosas on a plate that's ready to be served.
Easy Air Fryer Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Golden, crispy air fryer samosas are an easier way to enjoy this classic snack. With bold spices and flaky crusts, they’re a great addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Samosas

Tater Tot Nachos

An overhead image of tater tot nachos served on a plate.
Tater Tot Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tater tot nachos bring together crispy tots, melted cheese, and bold toppings. Easy to make, they’re the perfect starter for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Nachos

Korean Corn Cheese

An image of Korean corn cheese served in a cast iron skillet.
Korean Corn Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Korean corn cheese comes together in just 15 minutes with sweet corn and gooey mozzarella. It’s a simple, bold dish that’s great for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Cheese

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Air fryer vegan buffalo cauliflower bites in a bowl with dip nearby, placed under a wooden board.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan buffalo cauliflower wings are crispy, spicy, and great for dipping. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re a crowd favorite at any party.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Swirl Garlic Bread

Close-up image of sliced swirl garlic bread on a cutting board.
Swirl Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Swirl garlic bread combines fresh garlic and herbs in a simple, stunning loaf. It’s quick to make and a great way to kick off any meal.
Get the Recipe: Swirl Garlic Bread

BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs

Close-up image of bbq grape jelly meatballs.
BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

BBQ grape jelly meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory sauce that makes them impossible to resist. They work as a snack or a full meal, no effort required.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs

Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries with dill dip on a plate.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Halloumi fries are crispy, seasoned, and ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for dipping, they’re a standout appetizer at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Steak and Shiitake Mushroom Bruschetta Crostini Appetizers

Close-up image of steak and shitake mushroom crostini appetizers on a wooden surface.
Steak and Shiitake Mushroom Bruschetta Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Steak and shiitake mushroom bruschetta brings bold flavors on toasted bread. With its rich, savory bite, it’s a great way to start a meal.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Shiitake Mushroom Bruschetta Crostini Appetizers

Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs

Close-up image of slow cooker nacho meatballs.
Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nacho meatballs mix Velveeta cheese, taco seasoning, and meatballs for an easy, cheesy dish. With minimal prep, they work as a fun appetizer or simple dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs

Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

Top view of air fryer pigs in a blanket with dip.
Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air fryer pigs in a blanket have a crispy, golden crust in just minutes. Whether for game day or a casual get-together, they’re always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer sweet potato wedges are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Served with your favorite dip, they’re a great way to start a meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites

Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites on a plate with herbs.
Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Stuffed zucchini mini bites are easy to bake and packed with flavor. With their bite-sized shape, they’re a perfect addition to any appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Zucchini Mini Bites

More Appetizers

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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