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Home » Recipe Collections

27 Quick Bites for Guests to Enjoy Before Dinner Starts

Published: Nov 25, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Quick bites are the perfect way to keep guests happy and engaged while waiting for the main meal. These easy appetizers are all about keeping things simple without sacrificing flavor or fun. They’re fast to make, easy to share, and guaranteed to set a great vibe for the evening ahead. Whether you're hosting a big gathering or an intimate dinner, these small bites pack just enough punch to keep everyone excited for what’s next.

Side view of Easter deviled eggs on a wooden platter with a pink towel in the background.
Easter Deviled Eggs (Colored Deviled Eggs). Photo Credit: Urban Farmie.

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 is a visually striking loaf made with a quick mix of garlic and herbs. Perfect for guests, it’s a flavorful way to kick off any meal.
Get the Recipe: Swirl Garlic Bread

Corn Nuggets

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

Crispy corn nuggets combine cheesy goodness with a golden finish in just 20 minutes. They’re a versatile appetizer that works for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Corn Nuggets

Veggie Pinwheels

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

Veggie pinwheels with creamy hummus and fresh vegetables are quick to assemble. These vibrant bites are perfect for keeping guests happy before dinner.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels

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 pairs gooey mozzarella with sweet corn and a touch of maple, ready in 15 minutes. It’s a convenient pre-dinner snack for busy gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Cheese

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

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

Potato and Brussels sprouts latkes with avocado-lemon crema make a fresh, crispy snack. They’re a simple choice that adds variety to your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Cabbage Fritters

An overhead image of cooked cabbage fritters in a pan.
Cabbage Fritters. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan fritters, or pakoras, filled with cabbage and onions, are a cozy snack for cool weather. Serve them as a pre-dinner treat to share with friends.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Fritters

Fried Avocado

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

Baked avocado fries are crispy, quick, and made with just five ingredients. Pair them with a creamy dip for a satisfying starter guests will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Fried Avocado

Easter Deviled Eggs

Side view of Easter deviled eggs on a wooden platter with a pink towel in the background.
Easter Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Easter deviled eggs bring vibrant colors and a festive touch to any table. They’re a cheerful way to welcome guests to your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easter Deviled Eggs

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 are ready in under 10 minutes, making them a hassle-free appetizer. Their bold flavors are sure to please any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

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.

Instant Pot Queso blends creamy textures and bold spices in only 5 minutes. It’s an easy dip that sets the stage for a fun and relaxed evening.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Queso

Guacamole Salsa

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

Guacamole salsa combines the best of guacamole and salsa verde in one creamy, tangy mix. Serve it as a dip to kick off your gathering with a fresh note.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Salsa

Arepas Con Queso

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

Arepas Con Queso, made with mozzarella and grilled to golden perfection, are ready in 30 minutes. They’re a comforting appetizer to share with friends.
Get the Recipe: Arepas Con Queso

Italian Antipasto Board Appetizer

A top view of an Italian Antipasto Board Appetizer.
Italian Antipasto Board Appetizer. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

An Italian antipasto charcuterie board features cheeses, meats, and marinated veggies for an effortless appetizer. This platter brings variety and charm to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Italian Antipasto Board Appetizer

Baked Feta Dip

Baked feta in blue casserole dish.
Baked Feta Dip. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Baked feta dip combines feta, honey, dates, and hazelnuts for contrasting textures and flavors. It’s an easy addition to your spread that feels fresh and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Dip

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cream cheese taco dip delivers bold flavors with minimal effort in just 15 minutes. It’s a great addition to pre-dinner snacking for fall gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cranberry brie bites combine tart cranberries and creamy brie in a flaky shell. They’re a quick appetizer perfect for festive occasions and holidays.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

Spicy Dipping Sauce

An onion ring being dipped into Spicy Dipping Sauce.
Spicy Dipping Sauce. Photo credit: The Honour System.

A spicy dipping sauce adds a creamy kick to appetizers, meats, or veggies. It’s a versatile way to enhance your pre-dinner spread with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Dipping Sauce

Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Cranberry goat cheese bruschetta with garlic-herb chermoula is colorful and simple to prepare. It’s an excellent appetizer to set the tone for a seasonal meal.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Sweet Potato Hummus

Overhead of sweet potato hummus.
Sweet Potato Hummus. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Sweet potato hummus delivers fresh, vibrant flavors that guests can enjoy together. Its smooth texture makes it a standout addition to any appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus

Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Top view of air fryer buffalo wings with a small bowl of white dip on a plate.
Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer buffalo wings offer crispy skin and bold flavor without the mess of frying. They’re a crowd favorite that works for casual gatherings or game days.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Overhead image of air fryer pizza rolls on a plate.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Air fryer pizza rolls are a quick snack that comes together in minutes. These convenient bites are a hit with guests and perfect for pre-dinner mingling.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Fried Cheese Balls

Keto Fried Cheese Balls with parsley.
Fried Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Fried cheese balls are crispy, bite-sized cheddar treats. Their ease of preparation makes them a go-to choice for casual or game day gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls

Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta

Roasted tomatoes atop toasted bread rounds with feta cheese.
Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Roasted tomato crostini with whipped feta pairs crispy bread with fresh toppings. It’s a simple yet elegant appetizer that complements relaxed gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Sausage balls on a plate with a side of dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cream cheese sausage balls take 30 minutes to bake and are a versatile option. These savory bites are a crowd-pleaser for game day spreads or parties.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

Jalapeño Poppers on a platter with a bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer jalapeño poppers filled with cheese and bacon are both spicy and creamy. They’re an easy snack for guests to enjoy at casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber

A person holding a cucumber with shrimp and guacamole.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shrimp and cucumber appetizers combine light, refreshing flavors with a touch of sophistication. These elegant bites are ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber

Blue Cheese Steak Crostini

Blue cheese steak crostini on a metal platter drizzled with balsamic reduction.
Blue Cheese Steak Crostini. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Blue cheese steak crostini layers rare steak and balsamic drizzle on toasted bread. It’s a bold appetizer for gatherings where you want something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Steak Crostini

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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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