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Summer is officially here (and going by quickly)! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party with before-dinner apps or serving hors d'Oeuvres at a summer BBQ, there are a number of family-friendly appetizers to enjoy this summer. Here are eight of our favorite summer appetizer recipes to try this year.
1. Mac and cheese stuffed jalapeno poppers
Whether you’re simply baking them in the oven or charring them on the grill, these jalapeno poppers are a quick and delicious snack. Combine the creaminess of mac and cheese with the spiciness of a jalapeno pepper to brighten up your family’s taste buds for summer.
2. Mediterranean veggie flatbread
Your summer parties won’t be complete without this easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired flatbread topped with various veggies that are even more delicious grilled. Layer them on simple crescent roll bread topped with a creamy spread. This recipe can be done in less than 20 minutes, making it a great last-minute dish.
3. Layered taco dip
Serve this taco dip at your neighborhood potluck or right in your backyard with tortilla chips or soft flatbread. Layered with beans, guacamole, veggies, and cheese, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and take out of the refrigerator just before guests arrive.
4. Grilled vegetable bruschetta
Fire up the grill for this classic appetizer dish! This recipe uplevels your regular bruschetta, as it calls for grilling the vegetables, piling them high on country bread, and topping it off with basil pesto. You can’t go wrong with these ingredients that scream “summer.”
5. Bacon-and-romaine skewers
Try a unique take on the classic wedge salad with these skewers. Using bamboo skewers, alternate between bacon and romaine lettuce, and make a simple blue cheese dressing for dipping. You’ll have the perfect handheld snack for your next dinner party!
6. Sausage bites with mustard dipping sauce
This recipe is super easy and fun to eat. Simply grill your favorite sausage and cut them up into bite-sized pieces. Pile them into a bowl or use a toothpick to skewer each for easy handling. The cranberry mustard dipping sauce is the star in this dish. Your guests will love the tanginess of the mustard paired with the tart and sweet notes from the cranberries!
7. Red pepper and chive deviled eggs
A summer party isn't complete without deviled eggs! This recipe deviates slightly from the classic by adding diced red peppers and chives straight to the deviled egg mixture. Be sure to double the recipe for large groups — they’ll go fast!
8. Mini brioche lobster rolls
Give your guests a treat from the ocean with these lobster rolls. This versatile recipe is a play on the traditional lobster roll by calling for sweet brioche rolls. They’re also incredibly easy to make with a food processor! You can even use lump crab meat instead of lobster.
Don’t feel like cooking for your next summer shindig? Head over to our catering menu and order from our selection of appetizer minis. From mac and cheese and tacos to chicken piccata cups, we have a variety of handheld appetizers available for the whole family to enjoy!