Quick answer
What should I serve as an appetizer?
Canapés, open sandwiches, spreads, tapas, carpaccio, or small warm bites. Something light to whet the appetite before the main.
Appetizer Recipes – A Great Start to Every Meal
Appetizers set up the main event — from elegant bites to shareable boards for wine. Find nibbles for guests, party food, and little starters to open a special dinner. Small, but big on flavor.
Best recipes
Burrata with grilled nectarines and pistachios
Gravlax
Puff pastry canapés
Delicious salmon mousse with fresh spinach
Grilled zucchini roll-ups with cream cheese
Bacon-wrapped cheese-stuffed mushrooms
Potato pancakes with marinated trout
Savoury dill crêpes with trout
Marinated salmon – gravad lax
Avocado canapés with smoked salmon
Baked figs with goat cheese, walnuts and honey
Roasted peppers with fresh cheese and thyme
Red beet and orange carpaccio
Frequently asked questions
What appetizers for guests?
Go for shareable boards — tapas, a cheese and charcuterie plate, canapés, or dips with bread. Easy to prep ahead and everyone helps themselves.
How many appetizers should I plan per person?
Before a dinner, 3-4 pieces per person is plenty; for a party with no main course, plan on 8-10. Go for variety over big portions.
How do I prep appetizers ahead?
Most cold appetizers can be plated a few hours ahead and kept in the fridge. The recipes note what you can get ready early.