Wow! 17 Appetizers That Look Fancy But Are Surprisingly Easy

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Wow! 17 Appetizers That Look Fancy But Are Surprisingly Easy

Ever feel like you need a gourmet degree to make impressive appetizers? Not anymore! These dishes look elegant and sophisticated, yet are surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Your guests will think you spent all day in the kitchen, but you’ll know the truth. You’ll be the gourmet wizard of your friend group, all without breaking a sweat!

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Arepas con Queso

Close up shot of an arepa con queso split open to show the cheesy filling.
Arepas con Queso. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ever thought simple ingredients could lead to a feast? Well, Arepas con Queso are here to prove just that. These little cornmeal cakes filled with cheese are perfect for any social gathering. They come together so easily, yet leave everyone impressed. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a pro, these are guaranteed to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Arepas con Queso

Air Fryer Empanadas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Empanadas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Hosting soon and want something that screams effort without actually requiring much? Air Fryer Empanadas are your go-to. They come out looking golden and tasting incredible, all thanks to the air fryer. It’s a game changer for making treats that everyone will think took you all day. Plus, they’re amazingly versatile, perfect for any topping or dip you love.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re aiming for something that feels upscale without the upscale effort, Smoked Salmon Dip is it. Just mix and serve, and you’ve got a dip that makes every guest feel a bit more gourmet. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it pairs well with anything you choose to dip. Perfect for making a simple night in feel like a posh event.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Samosas

Low angle shot of a samosa cut in half so that you can see the potato filling inside.
Samosas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking to bring some global flair to your table without the complex steps? Samosas are your answer. These are marvelously easy to make and bring a sense of adventure to any meal. Filled to the brim with flavor, they’re a conversation starter and a pleaser in every bite. Ideal for when you want to try something new but keep it simple.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Air Fryer BBQ Wings

A pile of air fryer BBQ wings on a white platter.
Air Fryer BBQ Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving something sticky, sweet, and a tad spicy but not the hassle that usually comes with it? Air Fryer BBQ Wings have got you covered. Pop them in the air fryer, and you’re on your way to becoming the wing champion of the neighborhood. They’re quick, they’re easy, and they’re downright delicious. A surefire hit for any casual meet-up.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Wings

Instant Pot Shrimp

Cooked shrimp in a green and white striped bowl, garnished with parsley.
Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you want to impress with seafood without spending hours in the kitchen, enter Instant Pot Shrimp. This dish is a lifesaver for any seafood lover. It’s all about getting that perfect cook without monitoring every second. They’re great for adding a touch of sophistication to your spread, and they’re so simple to make. Great for any occasion, really.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp

Paneer Rolls

Hand holding paneer roll.
Paneer Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Need a vegetarian option that doesn’t feel like an afterthought? Paneer Rolls are here to save the day. They’re easy, they’re filling, and they’re packed with flavors that impress everyone. Perfect for when you want something a bit different but still approachable. Plus, they come together in a snap, making you look like a gourmet wizard with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Paneer Rolls

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Fried chicken in a basket lined with parchment paper.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Sometimes, you’re just craving fried chicken but not the mess that comes with making it. Air Fryer Fried Chicken is the solution. It’s less mess, less fuss, but all the flavor. This dish is about enjoying your favorites in a simpler, healthier way. Plus, it’s so easy, it’ll become your go-to for getting that crispy, juicy chicken fix anytime.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Char Siu Bao

Low angle shot of two mantou buns filled with char siu filling.
Char Siu Bao. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Want to add a bit of dim sum vibes to your table without too much trouble? Char Siu Bao is what you’re looking for. These fluffy buns filled with sweet and tangy pork are shockingly straightforward to make. They look fancy, taste fantastic, and sure to surprise your guests with your “expert” skills. It’s about bringing a favorite into your home, hassle-free.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao

Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Low angle shot of vietnamese summer rolls with edible flowers.
Vietnamese Summer Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a fresh, light start that still packs loads of flavor, you can’t go wrong with Vietnamese Summer Rolls. They’re fun to make, even more, fun to eat, and they’re all about keeping things light and delicious. Plus, assembling them can be a great way to get everyone involved. It’s an easy way to introduce a bit of freshness and variety into your appetizer lineup.
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Low angle, closeup shot of spare ribs with hoisin glaze.
Instant Pot Spare Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

In the mood for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs but not the hours they usually require? Instant Pot Spare Ribs change the game. With minimal prep and the magic of the Instant Pot, you have ribs that taste like they’ve been slow-cooked all day. It’s perfect for when you want that slow-cooked taste without the slow-cooked time investment.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Whipped Feta Spread

Overhead shot of a black platter with a bowl of whipped feta spread, sauteed chard, and grilled sourdough bread.
Whipped Feta Spread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking for a cheese spread that feels a bit more special? Whipped Feta Spread is your answer. It’s creamy, it’s tangy, and it’s ridiculously easy to whip up. Perfect for spreading on crackers, bread, or veggies. It makes for an impressive addition to your appetizer spread, making any ordinary gathering feel a touch more sophisticated.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta Spread

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When the goal is crispy, delicious, and simple, Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos have your back. These are a breeze to make and even easier to love. Filled with a flavorful mix and perfect for dipping, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Ideal for any gathering where you want to serve up something everyone will love, with minimal kitchen time on your part.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Instant Pot Hummus

Hummus in a black bowl garnished with whole chickpeas, olive oil, and paprika.
Instant Pot Hummus. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Why settle for store-bought when making Instant Pot Hummus is so easy and tastes so much better? It’s creamy, smooth, and perfect for any last-minute gathering. This dish allows you to enjoy the simplicity of making a dip that can be paired with anything. It’s a straightforward way to upgrade your snack game, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hummus

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for something that brings a bit of heat, Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are where it’s at. They’re spicy, cheesy, and offer the perfect crunch. Using an air fryer means you get that irresistible texture without the hassle of deep-frying. They’re an absolute must for anyone looking to add a little spice to their appetizer selection.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Har Gow

4 har gow shrimp dumplings in a bamboo steamer basket.
Har Gow. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those moments when you crave something steamed and filled with shrimp, Har Gow comes to the rescue. These shrimp dumplings are surprisingly easy to make and bring a touch of elegance to any gathering. They’re light, they’re delicious, and they add a bit of gourmet flair without requiring gourmet effort. A simple way to wow your guests with something different.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow

Thai Fish Cakes

Thai fish cakes on a black plate with prik nam pla.
Thai Fish Cakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re after something a little less ordinary but still within the easy reach, Thai Fish Cakes are the way to go. They bring a pop of flavor, texture, and a slight kick that’s hard to beat. Not to mention, they look fantastic on any appetizer table. Perfect for when you’re looking to bring a bit of international flair to your spread, without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fish Cakes

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