Are you ready to impress your friends and family with elegant hors d’oeuvres that are sure to delight? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 exquisite recipes perfect for entertaining at your next gathering. From savory bites like Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites and Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears to sweet treats like Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to add some flair to your next get-together, these elegant hors d’oeuvres are sure to be the star of the show. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – many of these recipes can be prepared in advance, leaving you free to focus on other important things (like mingling with your guests!)
So grab a pen and paper, get ready to impress, and let’s dive into our collection of 18 elegant hors d’oeuvres recipes perfect for entertaining!
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
A refreshing appetizer or snack that combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the coolness of cucumber and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 4-6 slices of cucumber
– 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Lay out the cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
5. Top each slice with a piece of flaked smoked salmon.
6. Sprinkle capers on top (if using).
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted and the flavors are combined.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
This classic Italian appetizer is a simple yet impressive start to any meal. Fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy bread come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto toasted bread rounds.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your next dinner party with this effortless yet impressive appetizer, featuring the sweetness of asparagus paired with the salty richness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 6-8 slices prosciutto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the asparagus under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Cut the prosciutto into thin strips, about 1-2 inches long.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with a strip of prosciutto, leaving a small portion at the top unWrapped.
5. Place the wrapped spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cakes, served with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a mini crab cake.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve warm with Remoulade Sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender mushrooms filled with a rich and creamy cheese mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and parsley until smooth.
3. Wipe the mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and remove any stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this unexpected yet irresistible combination of crispy bacon, sweet dates, and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each date with a piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the dates and sprinkle with salt.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and top each date with a dollop of goat cheese.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crostini with Fig Jam and Brie
Elevate your party with this sweet and savory Crostini recipe featuring fig jam and brie cheese. Perfect for a wine and cheese night or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces), softened
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Spread a small amount of fig jam on each slice, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with softened brie cheese, breaking it into smaller pieces if needed.
5. Sprinkle with chopped thyme leaves, if using.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the baguette is toasted.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Phyllo Cups
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Phyllo Cups: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
These crispy phyllo cups filled with creamy spinach and artichoke dip are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup spinach and artichoke dip
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Cut the phyllo into small squares, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
4. Place a spoonful of spinach and artichoke dip in the center of each square.
5. Fold the phyllo over the dip, forming a triangle or cup shape, and press the edges together to seal.
6. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Cheese Straws
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy straws, perfect for parties or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined.
4. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Beat egg in a small bowl, then add to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix until dough forms.
6. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until smooth.
7. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
8. Place straws on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each straw.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Mini Beef Wellington Bites: A Bite-Sized Twist on a Classic Recipe
These adorable miniatures are perfect for parties or special occasions. With tender beef, flaky puff pastry, and savory mushroom duxelles, you’ll be the star of any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix beef cubes with mushroom duxelles and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the filling.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold the other half of the pastry over the filling. Press gently to seal.
6. Place Wellington bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this colorful and flavorful Caprese skewer recipe, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella slice, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bake the skewers for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are tender.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Sriracha and Bacon
Elevate the classic deviled egg with a kick of spicy Sriracha and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle with paprika or chopped chives if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– 10-12 minutes to boil eggs
– 30 minutes to chill deviled eggs
Shrimp Cocktail Shooters
Shrimp Cocktail Shooters: A Bite-Sized Twist on a Classic Appetizer
Elevate your cocktail party with these bite-sized shrimp cocktail shooters, perfect for a fun and elegant gathering. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with tangy cocktail sauce in a miniature martini glass.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup cocktail sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 12 mini martini glasses
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Chill the shrimp in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Fill each mini martini glass with 1-2 shrimp, depending on size.
3. Spoon a small amount of cocktail sauce over the shrimp.
4. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or chives.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just assemble and serve)
Mushroom and Gruyère Tartlets
Mushroom and Gruyère Tartlets Recipe
These bite-sized tartlets are a perfect combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy Gruyère, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll have a delicious appetizer or snack ready to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, or a mix)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Place a tablespoon of sautéed mushrooms in the center of each square. Top with a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
4. Fold the pastry squares in half over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative border.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Crisps with Whipped Feta
These crispy, savory bites are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite cocktails or as a satisfying snack on their own. With the tangy kick of whipped feta, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup puffed rice cereal (such as Cheerios)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese and puffed rice cereal.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. While the crisps are baking, whip feta cheese in a bowl with heavy cream and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve Parmesan Crisps warm with whipped feta on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts: Sweet and Savory Combination
These bite-sized tarts are a perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, and flaky pastry. They’re perfect for a dinner party or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter to create shapes.
4. Spoon a small amount of caramelized onion onto each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Fold the pastry in half over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with sugar.
6. Place tarts on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Lobster Sliders with Lemon Aioli
Lobster Sliders with Lemon Aioli: A decadent twist on traditional sliders, these bite-sized treats combine succulent lobster meat with tangy lemon aioli for a flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lobster meat, butter, garlic, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Grill hamburger buns for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Assemble sliders by spreading a layer of lemon aioli (see below) on each bun, followed by a spoonful of the lobster mixture.
5. Top with fresh parsley or chives.
Lemon Aioli:
1. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tandoori Chicken Skewers with Mint Yogurt
Experience the bold flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe for Tandoori Chicken Skewers, served with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp Tandoori masala powder
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (for the sauce)
– 1 tsp honey
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, Tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill or broil for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix together mint leaves, plain yogurt, and honey in a bowl.
7. Serve Tandoori Chicken Skewers with the Mint Yogurt sauce and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Elevate your entertaining game with these elegant hors d’oeuvres recipes. From classic combinations like smoked salmon and cucumber to innovative takes on mini beef Wellington bites and lobster sliders, there’s something for every taste. Mini crab cakes with remoulade sauce, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears, and stuffed mushrooms with cream cheese are just a few of the delicious options featured in this collection of 18 recipes. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even just a quick snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests.
