Hosting a party or gathering and looking for ways to impress your guests? Look no further than these 20 delicious small bites recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From savory to sweet, these bite-sized morsels offer a variety of flavors and textures that will leave your guests wanting more.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or snack, these mini dishes are perfect for any occasion. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring recipes that incorporate everything from fresh seafood to rich cheeses.
So grab your apron and let’s get started with these 20 mouthwatering small bites recipes that are sure to be the star of any gathering!
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizers with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato, mozzarella round, and basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers (see note).
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Note: To make the balsamic glaze, simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar over low heat for about 30 minutes or until thickened slightly. Stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Mini Spinach and Feta Phyllo Cups
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a party or a light lunch. Crispy phyllo cups filled with a tangy spinach and feta mixture will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Layer 6-8 sheets of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush each sheet with olive oil.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture onto one end of each phyllo sheet.
6. Fold the phyllo over the filling, forming a triangle or a cup shape. Repeat for all dough and filling.
7. Place cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with olive oil.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Sweet and savory, these Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 6 slices of bacon
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each date with a piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with thyme leaves, if using.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing and flavorful bites that combine the richness of smoked salmon with the coolness of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toasted bagel or crackers for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the smoked salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice, and dill until well combined.
3. Arrange the cucumber slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the salmon mixture onto each cucumber round, leaving a 1/8-inch border around the edges.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cucumber is slightly tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm with toasted bagel or crackers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mushroom and Gruyère Tartlets
Mushroom and Gruyère Tartlets Recipe
These bite-sized tartlets are a perfect combination of earthy mushrooms and nutty cheese, sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press mixture into mini muffin tin cups, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and top each cup with a spoonful of mushrooms and a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Tuna Avocado Tartare on Crispy Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and flavorful dish, combining the creaminess of avocado with the spicy kick of tuna.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup sashimi-grade tuna, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crispy wontons (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and sriracha sauce. Mix well.
2. Stir in diced avocado until well combined.
3. Spoon the tartare onto crispy wontons.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (excluding prep time)
Parmesan Crisps with Whipped Herb Cream Cheese
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Parmesan crisps paired with a tangy and refreshing whipped herb cream cheese. Perfect as a party appetizer or a quick indulgence for yourself!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Drop the mixture by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, beat the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth.
6. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon zest.
7. Serve the Parmesan crisps with the whipped herb cream cheese.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Beef Wellington Bites
Elevate your party with these bite-sized mini beef wellingtons, packed with tender beef and creamy duxelles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together beef strips and mushroom duxelles.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place a tablespoon of the beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges together with a fork.
6. Brush tops with softened butter and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Note: Mushroom duxelles can be made by sautéing equal parts mushrooms and onions in butter until caramelized and then finely chopping them together.
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Southeast Asian dish, featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a rich peanut sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into skewers
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut Sauce (see below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken skewers and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill the chicken skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve with Peanut Sauce (see below) and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges.
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding more coconut cream if needed to achieve desired consistency.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your next dinner party or special occasion with this elegant and easy-to-make recipe. Thin slices of prosciutto wrapped around tender asparagus spears create a delicious and visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers with Creamy Jalapeño Dip
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and spicy stuffed peppers, served with a creamy jalapeño dip that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
For the peppers:
– 12 mini bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, cheese, cilantro, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Meanwhile, combine cream cheese, sour cream, jalapeño, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
8. Serve stuffed peppers with creamy jalapeño dip.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Shrimp with Mango Chili Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this tropical twist on classic shrimp, coated in a crispy coconut crust and served with a sweet and spicy mango chili sauce. Perfect for a summer evening or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Mango Chili Sauce (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into the melted butter, then coat in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve immediately with Mango Chili Sauce.
Mango Chili Sauce:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Mini Lobster Rolls on Buttery Rolls
Elevate your sandwich game with these decadent mini lobster rolls, featuring succulent chunks of lobster meat on toasted buttery rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat (chopped)
– 4-6 mini buttery dinner rolls
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Split the dinner rolls in half lengthwise.
3. Butter each roll with a small amount of softened butter.
4. Divide the lobster meat among the rolls, spooning it onto the buttered side.
5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the rolls are toasted golden brown.
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Goat Cheese and Fig Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet caramelized figs, and crunchy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) log of goat cheese, softened
– 4-6 fresh figs, sliced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened goat cheese and a pinch of salt.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Caramelize figs by cooking them in a pan over medium heat with honey, stirring occasionally, until they release their natural sweetness (about 5 minutes).
5. Spread a layer of goat cheese onto toasted baguette slices, followed by a few caramelized fig pieces and a sprinkle of salt.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta with Heirloom Tomatoes and Basil
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant bruschetta recipe, featuring heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices (preferably day-old)
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Top each bread slice with a spoonful of diced tomatoes, followed by a sprinkle of chopped basil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and top each bruschetta with a dollop of Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato Tots with Chipotle Aioli
Elevate your snack game with these crispy sweet potato tots, paired with a creamy chipotle aioli for an added kick. Perfect for movie nights or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (8-10)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Scoop out flesh and mash in a bowl.
4. Add flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper; mix well.
5. Form into tots and fry in hot oil until crispy.
6. In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, lime juice, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth.
7. Serve sweet potato tots with chipotle aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes baking time)
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional crab cakes, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise and egg until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Form into 12-15 mini crab cakes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. For Lemon Aioli, combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Bacon and Chive Potato Bites
Transform ordinary potatoes into a decadent snack with the combination of crispy bacon, tangy chives, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large potatoes
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the potatoes and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) chunks.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Toss potato chunks with crumbled bacon, grated cheese, and chopped chives.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spread the potato mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Fried Cauliflower Bites
These bite-sized cauliflower florets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small florets
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt.
2. Toss cauliflower florets in the mixture until well coated.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry cauliflower bites in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Drain on paper towels and toss with garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with Sea Salt
Elevate your snack game with these luscious Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with Sea Salt. The combination of rich, velvety chocolate and sweet strawberries is perfectly balanced by the crunch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh strawberries
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about three-fourths of the fruit.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt onto the chocolate-covered strawberry.
5. Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply let the chocolate set in the refrigerator before serving.
Summary
Entertain your guests with these 20 delicious small bites recipes that are sure to impress. From classic Caprese skewers to sweet treats like dark chocolate-dipped strawberries, there’s something for everyone on this list. Mini beef wellingtons, spicy tuna avocado tartare, and coconut shrimp with mango chili sauce are just a few of the many mouthwatering options. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to try some new recipes, these small but mighty bites are sure to please.
