15 Appetizer Recipes To Kick Off Any Great Meal

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15 Appetizer Recipes To Kick Off Any Great Meal

Starting a meal with the right appetizer can really set the tone for what’s to come. Think of it as the opening act that warms up the crowd, getting everyone excited for the main event. It’s about creating that initial spark of enjoyment and anticipation around the table.

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Vegan chicken nuggets in a bowl with dip.
Vegan Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

To help kick off your meal, why not start with a plant-based take on a classic finger food? Vegan Chicken Nuggets are full of flavor and offer a satisfying crunch, capturing the essence of traditional nuggets without any meat content. Perfect for vegan guests, they offer a tasty alternative with the same nostalgic feel.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries

A bowl of crispy portobello mushroom fries with dipping sauce.
Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’re in for a treat with our next dish. Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries captures the essence of beloved comfort food while infusing a dose of earthy goodness. Offering a crispy exterior and tender center, they’re an undeniable crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries

Egg Rolls

Vegan egg rolls in a wooden tray.
Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you’re searching for an appetizer with a bundle of flavors, Egg Rolls can be your perfect fit. Brimming with crunchiness on the outside and packed full of various ingredients inside, this classic Asian appetizer sets the bar high on any food lineup.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Chickpea Nuggets

A plate of chickpea nuggets with a bowl of sauce.
Chickpea Nuggets. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sticking to healthier options does not mean compromising on flavor. Chickpea Nuggets prove this point easily with their crispy on the outside, soft on the inside setup. These nuggets are a unique and exciting twist to the usual offerings.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Nuggets

Gluten-Free Crackers

Gluten-Free Crackers. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Consider starting your dinner with a universal sidekick for any dip, such as gluten-free crackers. They provide a light yet resonant flavor, making a great pairing without overshadowing other appetizers. Plus, they accommodate dietary restrictions with ease and without a fuss.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Crackers

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Let’s move on to a delightful medley of flavors, every woman’s and man’s favorite, Spinach Artichoke Dip. Creamy, rich, and pack a powerful punch, it’s ideal as a go-to staple for dinner parties and gatherings. Pair this with your favorite crackers, and you are golden!
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Caramelized Onion Hummus

Caramelized Onion Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Who said dips couldn’t be star appetizers? Our Caramelized Onion Hummus begs to differ. With its sweet and creamy undertones, this dish will have you loading up your plate for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Hummus

Onion Dip

Onion Dip. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Next is a tried and true classic that adds a punch to any party spread – Onion Dip. It creates a perfect balance with its slightly sweet and savory nature, an ultimate crowd-pleaser that pairs so well with anything.
Get the Recipe: Onion Dip

Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Smashed Red Skin Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smashed Red Skin Potatoes offer an approach to a starchy side that’s full of texture and flavor. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, steering clear of monotonous mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Breaded Mushrooms

Breaded Mushrooms in a white bowl with a fork.
Breaded Mushrooms. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

How about kicking it up a notch with Breaded Mushrooms? These bring an earthy flavor profile that’s fresh and grounding. They’re great for passing around as people mingle and chat.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s an appetizer that merges Italian classics into one bite-sized delight – Caprese Pesto Tarts. Opulent and vibrant, they’re a spectacular opener for an unforgettable dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Homemade Vegan Nutella Spread

Homemade Vegan Nutella Spread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

We’re not against indulging in a little sweet sensation before a meal and Homemade Vegan Nutella Spread knows just how to do that. It stands tall as a sweet, creamy, and utterly irresistible start with a surprising plant-based twist.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegan Nutella Spread

Cashew Cheese Spread

Cashew Cheese Spread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Our next appetizer brings a rich and delectable experience – a Cashew Cheese Spread. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with plant-based goodness, it’s a versatile option for an array of snacks.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Cheese Spread

Homemade Ketchup

Homemade Ketchup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Homemade Ketchup, as humble as it sounds, brings a fresh, tangy flavor profile that beats any store-bought variant. An ideal pair for our potato or nugget options, or to give any dish a flavor boost.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ketchup

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Last but not least, Roasted Pumpkin Hummus is the appetizer to round off this list. Its sweet, nutty flavor melds wonderfully with the creamy hummus tradition, ensuring your meal kicks off with a touch of seasonal goodness.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

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