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    40+ Party food ideas

    Nov 30, 2022 by Katia · Leave a Comment

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy for more details.

    Top view of four different party food ideas.

    If you look for delicious and easy party food ideas for the upcoming holidays, you’ve got to the right place!

    From crispy crostini to creamy dipping sauces and savoury fritters, here you’ll find plenty of ideas to feed a crowd.

    5-Ingredient carrot fritters

    The party season is around the corner, and there’s nothing more exciting than planning a holiday table for family and friends. It’s such a great fun to share a variety of classic appetizers and easy finger food while sipping a glass of wine (or two, maybe three! : ).

    Here I’ve gathered 40 party food ideas, from crostini topped with the most delicious ingredients, to savory patties fresh from the oven, yummy dips, focaccia and cheese board ideas.

    Easy appetizer recipes that come in handy all year round.

    Most of them are vegetarian, economical, and can be made ahead of time. !

    And if you prefer vegan recipes or Italian-style recipes, don’t miss out this collection of 50 vegan appetizers, these terrific 40+ Italian appetizers and 25 dairy-free appetizers and vegetarian appetizers.

    And now let the party begin! : )

    Party food ideas

    1

    Whipped Ricotta Crostini

    You’ll love the oh-so creamy and fluffy ricotta on crispy bread drizzled with honey and aromatic thyme. These ricotta crostini are ready in 15 minutes and make a wonderful and easy holiday appetizer that’s elegant, indulgent and sweet.

    2

    Roasted Carrot Hummus

    How festive and deliciously creamy is this carrot hummus? It’s healthy, easy to make, full of lemon and garlic flavor, perfect for spreading or dipping!

    3

    Olive Bruschetta

    This Mediterranean olive bruschetta with torn juicy olives, shaved parmesan, and celery served on toasted garlic Italian bread is crispy, delicious and fresh.

    4

    Caramelized onion and cheddar potato skins

    Photo Credit: www.howsweeteats.com

    Who doesn’t love these little crispy, cheesy bites of goodness? These potato skins are a dream! Perfect for your New Year’s Eve night at home when you want to enjoy all the snacks with a glass of lovely prosecco!

    5

    Caprese Salad Skewers

    These caprese salad skewers are a guaranteed crowd pleaser, SUPER easy to assamble, and deliciously fresh. Made with just three basic ingredients, this is one the best vegetarian appetizer recipes to make this summer. They’re absolutely perfect for sharing, healthy and easy to transport!

    6

    Roasted Artichoke Hearts

    These roasted artichoke hearts with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese are deliciously crispy, infused with herb and garlic flavour, the perfect bite size appetizer that charms everyone who tries it!

    7

    Anchovy Pizza {video recipe}

    In this easy pizza recipe the crunchy crust is topped with tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, salty anchovies capers and oregano… all BIG flavors. Slice and serve with a glass of white wine, it will be a crowd pleaser!

    8

    Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs

    Photo Credit: www.howsweeteats.com

    These pimento cheese deviled eggs are made with a rich pimento cheese filling, topped with sliced scallions, pimentos and crushed potato chips for extra crunch and flavor!

    9

    Beetroot hummus

    You’re going to be dipping everything into this beautiful vibrant beetroot hummus! This delicious velvety smooth dip is perfect for a large crowd and requires so little effort and a few basic cupboard essentials. And you don’t need to roast the beets.

    10

    Artichoke Bruschetta

    This artichoke bruschetta recipe makes a delightful appetizer, it’s easy to assemble and ready in less than 15 minutes! The crispy bread is topped with a mix of artichoke hearts, creamy ricotta, tangy lemon juice, herbs and extra virgin olive oil.

    11

    Ricotta Meatballs

    These melt-in-your-mouth tender ricotta meatballs cooked in tomato sauce are so easy to make with a handful of ingredients. They make a wonderful meatless party food idea that is full of flavor and ready in less than 30 minutes.

    12

    Creamy Feta Dip

    Photo Credit: www.recipetineats.com

    This Creamy Feta Dip will save you on all those days you need something fast but fabulous to take to gatherings! It's also low budget and can be made in advance. Serve with lightly toasted bread or pita, else for a healthy and colourful take, with crisp raw vegetables

    13

    5-Ingredient Carrot Fritters

    These healthy delicious carrot fritters are baked instead of fried, and they are packed with cumin, garlic, and fresh coriander. Serve with a last-minute tangy yogurt-hummus dip, they are a brilliant vegetarian appetizer.

    14

    Sun Dried Tomato Cream Cheese

    Everyone will love how the rich creaminess of the cheese is balanced by the tangy sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes. The texture! The flavor! A wonderful make-ahead dip that is ready in less than 10 minutes and tastes super delicious.

    15

    Marinated Mozzarella Balls

    Marinated mozzarella balls are an easy appetiser that is full of delicious flavours. Garlic, extra virgin olive oil, herbs, pepper and a little chilli combine with the creamy mozzarella taste so delicious.

    16

    Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

    Photo Credit: cookieandkate.com

    This hot and creamy spinach artichoke dip is the ultimate comfort food! This super delicious recipe is easy to make with basic ingredients and easily doubled for a crowd.

    17

    Bruschetta with Mozzarella

    You’ll love this quick bruschetta with mozzarella that’s crispy, juicy and full of fresh flavor. It comes together in no time with a handful of good-quality ingredients, and it’s simple and oh-so delicious!

    18

    5-Minute Creamy Avocado Dip

    Photo Credit: www.blissfulbasil.com

    This festive 5-minute creamy avocado dip makes an eye-catching holiday appetizer that comes together in a pinch. It’s one of the best dips that pair with crackers and breadsticks, definitely a crowd-pleaser.

    19

    Baked Butternut Squash Fritters

    These butternut squash fritters easy to make, economical and they taste delicious, crispy on the outside, and soft inside. Best of all? They’re baked, not fried in oil, and you won't be able to eat just one!

    20

    Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

    Photo Credit: sallysbakingaddiction.com

    These soft pretzel bites are easy to make and shaped into small pieces. They're great served with your favorite dip, definitely a crowd favorite!

    21

    Green Olive Tapenade

    This tasty green olive tapenade makes a super quick appetizer that’s economical, easy, and full of fresh flavors. It’s also vegan, healthy, and gluten free. Serve it with bruschetta, focaccia, breadsticks or crispy panini rolls. This last-minute recipe is perfect for a party anytime.

    22

    Spicy Shrimp Tacos

    Photo Credit: pinchofyum.com

    These shrimp tacos are fast, easy, and ready in about 30 minutes, loaded with flavor and texture. Everyone will love them!

    23

    Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad

    You can customize this easy pasta salad your fav add-ins like olives, capers, artichokes! I You can make it ahead, it keeps well in the fridge, and it's great for sharing.

    24

    Smoky Chipotle Cheddar Twists

    Photo Credit: www.howsweeteats.com

    These smoky cheddar twists are made with only 4 ingredients! They come together in no time at all and taste amazing, they can be served alone or with a little cheese plate!

    25

    Herbed Whipped Ricotta

    Easy to make and economical, this whipped ricotta is every ricotta lover’s dream come true. It’s fresh, creamy, herbed, garlicky and goes so well with just about anything. Added bonus? It’s ready in less than 5 minutes and guaranteed to be a hit.

    26

    Chai Spiced Tortilla Chips

    Photo Credit: fullofplants.com

    These tortilla chips are super crispy, perfectly caramelized, and easy to make... one of my fav party food ideas this winter!

    27

    10-Minute Vegan Tzatziki

    This garlicky vegan tzatziki sauce calls for simple ingredients and it’s so versatile. It’s perfect for dipping or served with pita bread, falafels, olives, crudites, grilled vegetables, or canapés.

    28

    Jalapeno Popper Dip

    Photo Credit: www.loveandlemons.com

    This jalapeño popper dip is an addictive party appetizer or game day snack! Crispy bread crumbs and melty cheese top a creamy, smoky, spicy dip. This recipe uses Greek yogurt for a smooth, creamy texture and rich, tangy flavor.

    29

    Mini Shallot Bhajis & Minted Yogurt

    Photo Credit: www.clairejustineoxox.com

    Spicy and crispy, these little bite-sized bhajis are great for a party or as part of an Indian feast. These irresistible little nuggets are a pleasure to eat, economical, and they’re vegan too!

    30

    Spicy Olives

    Flavoured with garlic, herbs and chili, these Italian spicy olives are juicy and packed full of flavor. They make a terrific appetizer, the perfect finger food for cheese boards or parties. They’re also easy to make, economical, and versatile!

    31

    Spicy Greek Eggplant Dip

    Photo Credit: fullofplants.com

    This dip recipe is fresh and slightly spicy, super easy to make and big on flavor. Serve with fresh chopped basil and a drizzle of lemon juice!

    32

    Italian rice balls (Arancini)

    Deliciously crispy and golden outside, soft and creamy inside with a core of molten mozzarella, these Italian rice balls are sure to please a crowd!

    33

    Easy Mango Salsa

    Photo Credit: www.loveandlemons.com

    This mango salsa recipe is the perfect party food, it looks and tastes fresh and bright. it's great on its own with tortilla chips, and it’s a great way to jazz up guacamole, too.

    34

    Homemade Flatbread Crackers

    Photo Credit: pinchofyum.com

    One of the very best ways to make the most of entertaining and friends time is by placing a tray of crispy crackers and a cheese platter on your holiday table. And freshly homemade crackers are the best!

    35

    Chickpea Bruschetta

    Crispy, economical, and full of flavor, this chickpea bruschetta with sun dried tomatoes makes a quick and easy appetizer perfect for sharing and delicious.

    36

    Easy No-Knead Pizza Dough {VIDEO}

    A good and fool proof pizza dough comes so in handy if you're planning a get together. It's budget-friendly, easy, versatile. Feel free to make your favorite topping - the sky is the limit - then cut into small slices and share with your friends!

    37

    Greek Zucchini Tots

    Photo Credit: www.recipetineats.com

    These golden bites packed with zucchini are from the Greek Island of Alonnisos. You can make them in the oven and shape them into tater-tot shapes, or you can cook them on the stove too. They’re amazing served as appetisers at a party!

    38

    Focaccia with Olives

    Impress for less with this incredible focaccia! It’s moist with golden oil-scented crust, packed with juicy olives and so easy to make in 1 bowl (no kneading is required!). Double, or triple the ingredients, make a few batches, cut into squares and serve to a crowd. It’s totally delicious!

    39

    Crab Cake Bites

    Photo Credit: littlespicejar.com

    These delicious mini crab cake bites are more sophisticated then the previous recipes and perfect to impress! They taste just like the real thing but require way less work and are perfect to pass around for parties or for the holidays!

    40

    Easy Seasoned Pretzels

    Photo Credit: sallysbakingaddiction.com

    Baked hard pretzels seasoned with lemon pepper, dill, and garlic powder. They're so easy to make and crowd pleasing that you will not be able to stop snacking on these!

    41

    Homemade Everything Crackers

    Photo Credit: www.loveandoliveoil.com

    Homemade crackers are the ultimate snack, and these ultra-crispy, everything bagel-inspired delights are no exception. Top them with a smear of cream cheese and a dollop of pepper jelly or a slice of smoked salmon for a truly delectable combination!

    42

    Herb and Garlic Baked Brie

    Photo Credit: littlespicejar.com

    You won’t believe how easy it is to make a wheel of garlic baked brie! We make thin slivers in the brie, load them with garlic and then drizzle on a thyme honey butter sauce that makes this wheel of brie totally unforgettable!

    43

    Ricotta and Spinach Puff Pastry Bites

    Photo Credit: www.recipetineats.com

    This is a cute twist on the typical cheese and spinach triangles. These are easy to make, convenient and great if you're planning to feed a crowd.

    I hope you love this collection of easy party food ideas as much as I do!

    More party food to impress your guests

    For more recipes perfect for the holiday season and special occasions, have a look at some of my favorites:

    • 15 easy Holiday salads
    • 20 Amazing Christmas cookies
    • 50+ Vegan appetizers
    • Italian appetizers

    Whether you plan an epic holiday party, Christmas dinners, potlucks or any other special occasion, I hope that a few of these easy recipes will be on the menu!

    Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions, I would love to hear from you.

    And for more recipe updates, follow me on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

    A hand dipping a crispy carrot fritter into some hummus.
    Print Recipe

    40+ Party food ideas

    These easy party food ideas are so easy to make and perfect for any occasion! Crispy crostini, creamy dips, crackers, focaccia and cheese to feed a crowd all year round. This carrot fritter recipe is one of our favorites and requires only 5 ingredients.
    Update: originally published in November 2021, today I've updated this collection with new recipes and photos.
    Prep Time5 mins
    Cook Time25 mins
    Total Time30 mins
    Course: Appetizer
    Cuisine: Mediterranean
    Keyword: Party food ideas
    Servings: 20 Fritters
    Author: Katia

    Ingredients

    Carrot Fritters

    • 1 lb (440 grams) grated carrots
    • 2 small eggs
    • ½ cup all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
    • 2 garlic cloves, pressed
    • 2 tsp ground cumin
    • ¼ cup coriander leaves, chopped
    • 1 tsp fine salt
    • ⅛ tsp black pepper (optional)

    Yoghut Hummus Dip

    • ¾ cup chickpea hummus
    • ¾ cup plain yoghurt
    • 1-2 Tbsp Lemon juice

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease or line with parchment paper a baking pan.
    • Place all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well until combined. The grated carrots might release some moisture, you want to drain it, and you might add a little flour if the mixture is still wet.
    • Take a heaping tablespoon of the mixture, place it on the baking pan and flatten slightly with your hand. 
    • Bake the fritters for about 12 minutes, then turn them over and keep baking for a further 12 minutes or until golden and crispy. Check your oven, the baking time might be slightly different.
    • Meamwhile, mix plain yoghurt, hummus and lemon juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Add a bit more of lemon juice if you like.
    • Serve the fritters while they're still warm with the yogurt-hummus dip. However, they taste nice even when they are cold. Enjoy!
    « Ricotta Meatballs (no-meat recipe)
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    Hi, I’m Katia! Welcome to my blog where I share easy, delicious, and budget-friendly recipes. I love cooking mainly vegetarian meals in no time at all. Minimum effort, maximum result. Read more…

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