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Home » Roundups

17 Appetizers That Will Keep Your Guests Too Busy to Notice Dinner Is Late

By: kseniaprints · Updated: Mar 10, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links.

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Great appetizers keep guests happy while they wait for the main course. These recipes are simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any gathering. Whether you need something crispy, creamy, or packed with fresh ingredients, there’s an option here that will keep everyone reaching for more. Serve up a crowd-pleasing starter that might just steal the spotlight.

A baking tray with seven golden-brown pastry turnovers, likely empanadas, on a sheet of parchment paper. The pastries appear freshly baked, with slightly crispy edges, resting on a rustic, worn metal tray.
Argentinian Empanada Dough. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Jalapeno

Dip on plate with tomatoes and spicy peppers around.
Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Jalapeno. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Spicy black-eyed pea dip is a bold, creamy appetizer with a mix of heat and freshness. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and includes black-eyed peas, tomatoes, garlic, and jalapenos. The taste is rich with a balance of smoky and tangy flavors. A perfect dip for pairing with chips or veggies.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Jalapeno

Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad

A close-up of zucchini rolls filled with seafood.
Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Zucchini roll with crab salad is a light, refreshing appetizer with layers of creamy and crisp textures. It takes about 40 minutes to make and includes zucchini, crab, and a light dressing. The flavor is mild with a mix of fresh seafood and delicate herbs. A great bite-sized option for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Roll with Crab Salad

Duck Breast Bruschetta

Slices of bread topped with diced tomatoes, chopped meat, and fresh basil are arranged on a black slate surface.
Duck Breast Bruschetta. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Duck breast bruschetta is a savory appetizer with tender, seared duck on crisp bread. It takes about 35 minutes to prepare and includes duck breast, baguette slices, and a flavorful topping. The taste is rich with a balance of smoky and slightly sweet notes. A unique twist on classic bruschetta.
Get the Recipe: Duck Breast Bruschetta

Festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Punchy Garlic And Herb Chermoula

Cranberry and pistachio crostini on a plate.
Festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Punchy Garlic And Herb Chermoula. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Cranberry goat cheese bruschetta is a tangy, creamy appetizer with a touch of sweetness. It takes about 30 minutes to make and includes goat cheese, cranberries, and herb chermoula. The flavor is bright with a mix of tart and savory elements. A festive option that works for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Punchy Garlic And Herb Chermoula

Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip

Zaalouk in a white plate with spoon and napkin.
Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Zaalouk roasted eggplant dip is a smooth, spiced dish with deep, smoky flavors. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and includes roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and Moroccan spices. The taste is rich with a mild heat from the seasonings. A great spread for bread or crackers.
Get the Recipe: Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip

Loaded Bruschetta Recipe

Loaded bruschetta salad on crostini on a white plate.
Loaded Bruschetta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Loaded bruschetta is a fresh, flavorful appetizer with a mix of bright and savory toppings. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare and includes tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The taste is slightly tangy with a balance of soft and crunchy textures. A simple and classic starter.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Bruschetta Recipe

Mexican Tostones

Overhead view of tostones with salt.
Mexican Tostones. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Mexican tostones are crispy, twice-fried plantains with a salty, slightly sweet flavor. They take about 30 minutes to prepare and include plantains, oil, and a pinch of salt. The taste is lightly crunchy with a starchy, satisfying bite. A great alternative to traditional chips.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Tostones

Crispy Plantain Chips

Side view of chips with salsa.
Crispy Plantain Chips. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Crispy plantain chips are a crunchy, lightly salted snack that pairs well with dips. They take about 20 minutes to make and include plantains, oil, and a bit of seasoning. The flavor is mildly sweet with a crisp texture. A simple appetizer that works for any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Plantain Chips

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are arranged on a plate. The poppers appear golden and crispy, with visible cheese oozing out. Fresh parsley leaves are used as garnish.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

Air fryer jalapeño poppers are a spicy, cheesy appetizer with a crispy exterior. They take about 25 minutes to prepare and include jalapeños, cream cheese, and breadcrumbs. The taste is slightly smoky with a creamy, mild heat. A quick and flavorful bite for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Butternut Squash Chips

Butternut Squash Chips. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut squash chips are a crunchy, naturally sweet alternative to potato chips. They take about 35 minutes to prepare and include thinly sliced squash and a touch of seasoning. The taste is slightly caramelized with a hint of earthiness. A colorful, healthy snack for any appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Chips

Seared Duck Breast Crostini with Blackcurrant Jelly

Sliced duck breast on toasted bread with berry sauce, served on a wooden board. A jar of Bonne Maman blackcurrant jelly is in the background. Salt flakes are sprinkled on top of the duck.
Seared Duck Breast Crostini with Blackcurrant Jelly. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Seared duck breast crostini is a rich appetizer with a mix of savory and fruity flavors. It takes about 40 minutes to prepare and includes duck breast, blackcurrant jelly, and toasted bread. The taste is deep with a hint of tart sweetness. A refined option for a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Seared Duck Breast Crostini with Blackcurrant Jelly

Duck Carpaccio

A black plate features a serving of beef carpaccio topped with arugula, shaved Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and drizzled with olive oil, set on a marble surface.
Duck Carpaccio. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Duck carpaccio is a delicate, thinly sliced appetizer with bold, meaty flavors. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and includes duck breast, olive oil, and a light seasoning blend. The taste is smooth with a slightly gamey richness. A sophisticated dish for anyone who loves cured meats.
Get the Recipe: Duck Carpaccio

Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets

Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Caramelized onion and pumpkin puff pastry pockets are a warm, flaky appetizer with a savory-sweet filling. They take about 50 minutes to prepare and include puff pastry, pumpkin, and caramelized onions. The flavor is buttery with a mix of deep roasted and mild sweetness. A great option for fall gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets

Smoked Salmon Eye Canapes

Smoked Salmon Eye Canapes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Smoked salmon eye canapés are a simple, elegant appetizer with a balance of salty and creamy flavors. They take about 20 minutes to make and include smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers. The taste is rich with a hint of freshness from the toppings. A quick, bite-sized option for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Eye Canapes

Easy Ground Beef Nachos

A baking sheet filled with nachos topped with melted cheese, ground meat, beans, jalapeño slices, sour cream, and chopped green onions. The nachos are arranged in an overlapping pattern with ingredients spread evenly.
Easy Ground Beef Nachos. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Ground beef nachos are a hearty appetizer with layers of melted cheese, seasoned beef, and crispy tortilla chips. They take about 30 minutes to prepare and include ground beef, cheese, and salsa. The taste is slightly smoky with a mix of gooey and crunchy textures. A crowd-pleasing option for any casual gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ground Beef Nachos

Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango

A bowl of Colombian ceviche with pear, fennel, and mango.
Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Colombian ceviche with pear, fennel, and mango is a light, citrusy dish with a balance of fresh and tangy flavors. It takes about 35 minutes to prepare and includes seafood, lime juice, and fresh fruit. The taste is bright with a slightly sweet contrast. A refreshing option for warm-weather gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Refreshing Colombian Ceviche with Pear, Fennel, and Mango

Argentinian Empanada Dough

A baking tray with seven golden-brown pastry turnovers, likely empanadas, on a sheet of parchment paper. The pastries appear freshly baked, with slightly crispy edges, resting on a rustic, worn metal tray.
Argentinian Empanada Dough. Photo credit: At The Immigrants Table.

Argentinian empanada dough is a versatile base for making crisp, golden pastries filled with savory ingredients. It takes about an hour to prepare and includes flour, butter, and a bit of salt. The taste is slightly buttery with a flaky, tender texture. A great starting point for homemade empanadas.
Get the Recipe: Argentinian Empanada Dough

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About Ksenia

Welcome to At The Immigrant's Table! I blend my immigrant roots with modern diets, crafting recipes that take you on a global kitchen adventure. As a food blogger and photographer, I'm dedicated to making international cuisine both healthy and accessible. Let's embark on a culinary journey that bridges cultures and introduces a world of flavors right into your home. Read more...

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