I Make These 29 Summer Appetizers Whenever We Have Company

ByMandy

Some appetizers are just polite, and then there are the ones from this list. These 29 summer appetizers never make it past the first round of small talk. Guests start with one, pretend they’re done, then quietly circle back. There’s always that one person who ends up parked by the tray.

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet and smoky comes alive in BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw, a sandwich-style option guests love. Bite-sized simplicity makes them ideal for mingling events. The slaw adds crunch for good balance. They’re easy to prepare ahead and disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A mix of beans, corn, and other veggies creates Cowboy Caviar, a hearty choice that fits well with chips or as a standalone option. Packed with colorful variety, it’s perfect for sharing at table spreads. Guests can enjoy this without effort or utensils. Consistently popular at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy bread topped with flavorful shrimp transforms into Shrimp Toast, offering a seafood option that feels special yet approachable. Its crunch and texture make it stand out on appetizer spreads. Guests will keep reaching for seconds. It’s a fun way to include seafood in easy bites.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds.
Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Wrapping bratwurst into flaky rolls turns Brats in a Blanket into a hearty finger food that’s easy to pass around. These are handy for guests who want something to grab-and-go without utensils. They pack plenty of flavor without overcomplicating things. Great for casual hangouts or parties.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Crack Chicken Dip

Cracker with creamy dip featuring bacon bits and green onions being lifted from a dish.
Crack Chicken Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy and rich with bold additions, Crack Chicken Dip earns a spot as a reliable party favorite. Perfect with chips or bread for dipping and sharing. Guests gravitate to its unique texture and layers of flavor. Warm or cold, it’s always appealing on the table.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Assorted cheeses, meats, and crackers make Charcuterie Board a go-to centerpiece for hosting events. Guests can pick and choose their favorites, making it customizable for everyone. A great way to include variety in one space. Perfect for laid-back or formal occasions.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spice and creaminess blend well when rolled into Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel, making it a fun finger food twist. Its circular shape is easy to serve and share while keeping cleanup simple. Great balance between bold kick and creamy. Ideal for game days or quick get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side.
Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy and loaded with bold mixes, Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip quickly becomes the highlight near chips or crackers. Flavor-packed layers are inviting without overcomplicating the serving. It spreads easily and fills small dishes to keep group munching fun. Everyone loves the warm twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray.
Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Small slices of toasted bread topped creatively turn into Crostini Appetizers, offering variety to guests without overloading. Perfect as small bites for standing or moving around gatherings. These work well for mixing light options with a spread. Quick to serve and refill as needed.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Smooth and creamy spreads served in dip form like Guacamole always stay a favorite around chips at gatherings. Guests like pairing it with other items while enjoying its richness. Simple to put together and goes well in a variety of setups. It’s always popular on crowded tables.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Party Crostini

Slices of toasted bread stacked together.
Party Crostini. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creative toppings on toasted rounds make Party Crostini a simple but fun option for groups. Balancing light and filling bites makes them easy for guests to enjoy while mingling. Small sizes mean no plates are needed. Always adaptable to meet different food preferences.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mixing creamy layers with a little kick makes Buffalo Chicken Dip a natural centerpiece for chips and crackers. Bold flavor appeals to the crowd and keeps people coming back for scoops. It’s always a favorite when served warm and bubbly. Perfect for casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center.
Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy slices packed into bite-sized servings turn Mini Hasselback Potatoes into a memorable appetizer. Guests appreciate the special look of these little potatoes along with their paired flavor options. Easy to grab and eat without fuss. Adds variety to any table spread.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchy shells filled with toppings make Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe a fun pick for group settings. They’re easy to serve and let guests enjoy familiar flavors in a creative way. No fuss while hosting since they come together quickly. Always a hit with small or large crowds.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of tomato, mozzarella, and basil combine in Caprese Appetizer for a fresh option that feels timeless. Perfect for providing flavorful bites that aren’t too heavy. Guests enjoy its vibrant combo in a manageable portion size. Always well-received for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rolled dough filled with bold flavor makes Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls the kind of option you’ll want for feeding a crowd. Easy to grab-and-go with no mess involved. Everyone loves the familiar spices packed inside. Great party choice for casual events.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining crunch with a bit of sweetness, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is fresh and filling. Guest-friendly and easy to portion for groups. No cooking involved, making it stress-free to prepare and serve. Works well next to heavier dishes for balance.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Crispy Rice

A stack of crispy rice topped with a dollop of white sauce, red sauce, and sliced green onions, with a blurred dish of green garnishes in the background.
Crispy Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Having a simple crunch with added flavor makes Crispy Rice an easy appetizer for any crowd. Its lightness pairs well with heavier dips or toppings. Guests like how the texture creates a pop of difference on the table lineup. Something unique yet not difficult to make.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Million Dollar Dip

Close-up of a creamy dish topped with shredded cheese, chopped nuts, bacon bits, and sliced green onions.
Million Dollar Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich mixes with a creamy base give Million Dollar Dip its reputation as a go-to party serving. Perfect to pair with chips or vegetables while letting flavor shine through. Guests appreciate how quick it is to scoop up without crumbs everywhere. It’s reliable and easy for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Handheld and packed with flavor, Mini Tacos make adding variety to a table easy during social gatherings. Guests love these for bite-sized portions without the mess. Great for quick prep and disappearing fast at events. Perfect for parties and casual snacking.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy and packed with seafood flavor, bite-sized Maryland Crab Cake is always a win when hosting. These manageable portions work great for mingling settings. Guests love the unique twist it brings as part of an appetizer lineup. Special without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh chunks of tomato, onion, and cilantro come together in Pico de Gallo to make a light, refreshing option for your gathering. It’s ideal as a dip or topping for chips or tacos. No heavy filling here, just a simple crowd-pleaser. Perfect for sharing and quick to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm bread toasted with garlic turns into Garlic Bread, an easy-to-love addition for any table. Perfect for dipping or eating as is during appetizers. Guests enjoy its simplicity and it pairs well with so many spreads. Serve in bite-sized portions for easy sharing.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful skewers filled with different veggies form Grilled Veggie Kebobs, an easy way to provide fresh options for guests. Their handheld design keeps hosting simple. Ideal for balancing heavier spreads without being complicated. Great for a mix of healthy and fun bites.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Stacked ham and gooey cheese turn simple rolls into Ham and Cheese Sliders for an easy-to-serve option. Guests appreciate the balance of hearty and uncomplicated flavors. These small sandwiches are filling enough without being overwhelming. Excellent for casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

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.

The crisp tart base in Caprese Pesto Tarts brings fresh flavors into bite-sized portions. Tomatoes, creaminess, and added greens make them great small bites to share. Guests always seem to enjoy them without needing anything extra on the side. Perfect presentation for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Mexican Street Corn

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Roasted or grilled corn topped with bold mixes becomes Mexican Street Corn, an inviting snack to pass around at social events. Guests love how easy it is to grab, enjoy, and move on without plates. Flavors work well with a variety of other dishes. Always a crowd-friendly option for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining meats, cheeses, and veggies, Antipasto Salad works well for those wanting a lighter choice that’s still filling. It’s packed with variety and great for sharing. Easy to serve in small bowls or dishes during events. It balances refreshing and hearty flavors well.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed layers in 7 Layer Dip make a bold centerpiece for chips at social events. Guests enjoy being able to dig in while enjoying the different textures all in one bite. Simple to share, refill, and keeps things stress-free for the host. Always a hit dish for planned gatherings.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

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