58 Dairy-Free Appetizers Perfect for Every Party Spread

Whether you're lactose intolerant or you just want to cut back on your dairy intake, these dairy-free appetizers are for you! Whip up spicy salsas, creamy dips or crispy egg rolls for your next party or gathering, and your guests won't even miss the dairy.

Hosting becomes simpler when every guest can enjoy the spread without worrying about ingredients. While planning a menu that’s both lactose-free and crowd-friendly can feel tricky, these dairy-free appetizers offer bold flavors and satisfying textures without relying on cheese or cream. This collection focuses on dairy-free finger foods like velvety hummus, sticky-sweet glazed wings, crisp baked egg rolls and tangy meatballs that hold up well at room temperature.

With a few smart swaps, you can plan a menu around dairy-free recipes for gatherings. Cashew creams and white bean purees replace cheese-based dips, pairing well with easy dairy-free party snacks like tortilla appetizers or air-fryer nachos. Full-fat coconut milk brings a rich, creamy finish to dressings and sauces without dairy.

If you don’t want to scramble at the last minute, make the dips a day in advance and store them in airtight food storage containers. Most baked appetizers reheat well in a low oven, regaining their texture without drying out. When traveling to potlucks or brunches, choose dishes that travel well—like shrimp skewers or stuffed peppers—and pack the garnishes and sauces separately. With thoughtful prep and a variety of flavors, these recipes often steal the spotlight.

1/58

Garlic Garbanzo Bean Spread

Total Time:10 min
Servings:1-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My friends and family always ask me to make it. I guarantee you’ll be asked for the recipe. —Lisa Moore, North Syracuse, New York
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 114 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 96mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1/2 starch.
2/58

Chili-Lime Chicken Wings

Total Time:30 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Who would have guessed that mixing maple syrup, chili sauce and lime juice would make chicken wings taste so good? Family and guests alike will scramble to ensure they get more than one of these utterly delicious wings, so be sure to make extra! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 142 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 198mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.

Wash these saucy chicken wings down with a big glass of lactose-free milk!

3/58

Baked Egg Rolls

Total Time:40 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These egg rolls are low in fat but the crispiness from baking will fool you into thinking they were fried! —Barbara Lierman, Lyons, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 1 egg roll: 146 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 250mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
4/58

Strawberry Corn Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:15 min
Servings:5-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe makes art in a bowl! All the colors of summer are captured in this salsa with a fresh, light flavor perfect for snacking between swims or to kick off a backyard barbecue. This can be served with chips or alone as a side dish. —Catherine Goza, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 49 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 56mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
5/58

Grilled Jalapenos

Total Time:25 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When barbecuing for friends at home, I also use the grill to serve up hot appetizers. These crowd-pleasing stuffed peppers have a bit of bite. They were concocted by my son. —Catherine Hollie, Cleveland, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed pepper: 97 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
6/58

Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini Peppers

Total Time:20 min
Servings:32 pieces
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Mini peppers are so colorful and are the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. —Christine Hanover, Lewiston, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 15 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 36mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
7/58

Chive Crab Cakes

Total Time:30 min
Servings:12 crab cakes
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These tasty crab cakes are perfect for appetizers, or try them with a salad for a light meal. —Cindy Worth, Lapwai, Idaho
Nutrition Facts: 1 crab cake: 119 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 509mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 13g protein.
8/58

Three-Pepper Guacamole

Total Time:25 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you're serious about guacamole, use a molcajete. The lava stone makes a big difference on the pepper paste and is fun for guests. —Laura Levy, Lyons, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 76 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 82mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
9/58

Bourbon Bacon Jam

Contest Winner
Total Time:45 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: You can slather this smoky bacon jam on pretty much anything. It lasts only a week in the fridge, so I freeze small amounts for a quick snack with crackers. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 112 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 118mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
10/58

Pickled Mushrooms for a Crowd

Total Time:30 min
Servings:about 7-1/2 dozen (6 cups mixture)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Serve tangy pickled mushrooms alongside a steak, as an appetizer with toothpicks, in a salad or as part of an antipasto platter. However you present them, you can’t go wrong! —John Levezow, Eagan, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 pickled mushroom: 7 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
11/58

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Pear Sauce

Total Time:35 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I enjoy cooking for my parents, and my bacon-wrapped scallops recipe is one of their favorites. If you prefer, replace the pear preserves with preserves or jam of a different flavor. —Ethan Hall, King, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrapped scallop with 1 tablespoon sauce: 400 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 121mg cholesterol, 819mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), 60g protein.
12/58

Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives

Total Time:15 min
Servings:8 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Marinated stuffed olives go over so well with company that I try to keep a batch of them in the fridge at all times. —Larissa Delk, Columbia, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 78 calories, 7g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
13/58

Grilled Guacamole

Total Time:20 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you’re a guacamole lover, try this fun grilled version that has a smoky flavor. The veggies tend to darken a bit when heated, so stir it gently to prevent further discoloration. —Lindsay Sprunk, Noblesville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 85 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
14/58

Asian Shrimp Pancakes

Total Time:30 min
Servings:about 2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I keep these crisp, colorful appetizer pancakes on the small side so my guests can easily pick them up with chopsticks and eat them in a few bites. I think the little shrimp-topped cakes are as good as any I've tasted in Asian restaurants. —Tonya Burkhard, Davis, Illinois
15/58

Shrimp Ceviche

Total Time:25 min
Servings:10 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Ceviche is a seafood recipe of raw fish marinated in citrus juice, which cooks it without heat. This version starts with cooked shrimp and adds tomatoes, cucumbers and serrano peppers. —Adan Franco, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 cup (calculated without chips): 61 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 128mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat.
16/58

Southwest Hummus Dip

Total Time:35 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Not your ordinary hummus, this dip is a combination of two things I love—chickpeas and southwestern flavors. You can substitute 3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed, for the grilled corn. —Cheray Buckalew, Cumberland, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips and vegetables): 68 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 223mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch.
17/58

Baked Pot Stickers with Dipping Sauce

Total Time:45 min
Servings:4 dozen (3/4 cup sauce)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Twisting these wonton wrappers like little candies makes them fuss-free, and the dipping sauce is packed with sweet heat. —Taylor Marsh, Algona, Iowa
Nutrition Facts: 1 pot sticker with 3/4 teaspoon sauce: 52 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 101mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
18/58

Tangy Barbecue Wings

Contest Winner
Total Time:4 hours
Servings:2 dozen wings (2 sections each)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I took these slow-cooked wings to work, and they vanished before I even got a bite! The tangy sauce is lip-smacking good. —Sherry Pitzer, Troy, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1 wing (2 sections): 178 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 458mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.
19/58

Roasted Eggplant Spread

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Black pepper and garlic perk up this out-of-the-ordinary spread that hits the spot on a crisp cracker or toasted bread slice. —Barbara McCalley, Allison Park, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup spread: 84 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
20/58

Party Shrimp

Total Time:25 min
Servings:2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The marinade for this dish makes the shrimp so flavorful, you won't even need a dipping sauce. Even those who claim they don’t like shellfish really dig this appetizer. —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1 shrimp: 14 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
21/58

Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Total Time:50 min
Servings:about 3-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These cute little bacon-wrapped smokies are finger-licking good. They have a sweet and salty taste that's fun for breakfast or as an appetizer. —Cara Flora, Kokomo, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 90 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
22/58

Mango Avocado Salsa

Total Time:15 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When serving a crowd, double or quadruple this guacamole. The onion, tomato and mango can be chopped in advance. Add the avocado just before serving. —Diana Nienberg, McComb, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips and vegetables): 67 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 151mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
23/58

Christmas Meatballs

Total Time:30 min
Servings:about 3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Cranberry sauce and brown sugar create a tangy glaze for moist meatballs that are good as a Christmas appetizer or Christmas dinner idea. We love these meatballs so much, I prepare them year-round. —Joyce Bentley, Redlands, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 meatball: 71 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 190mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
24/58

Apple Salsa with Cinnamon Chips

Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:4 cups salsa
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Both my husband and I were raised on farms, and we prefer home cooking to eating out. That works out fine since I love trying new recipes! I've served this apple salsa as an appetizer and a snack. Plus, it's sweet enough to be a dessert. It's also easy to transport. —Carolyn Brinkmeyer, Golden, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 4 chips with 1/4 cup salsa: 121 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 126mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
25/58

Asian Chicken Wings

Total Time:45 min
Servings:about 3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Bird is the word when it comes to these wings. They’re baked to a perfect golden brown and hum with mild, delicious Asian spices. Thanks to an overnight marinade, the chicken inside stays tender while the skin maintains that signature crunch. —Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 52 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 81mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
26/58

Pork Lettuce Wraps

Total Time:35 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Casual, flavorful and low in carbohydrates, these Vietnamese pork lettuce wraps are a perfect and low-fuss way to feed a group. Place the ingredients in separate dishes and let your guests assemble their own wraps, which allows them to personalize the wraps to suit their tastes. —Gretchen Barnes, Fairfax, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 wrap: 199 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 312mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
27/58

Four-Tomato Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:56 (14 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The variety of tomatoes, onions and peppers makes this chunky salsa so good. Whenever I try to take a batch to a get-together, it's hard to keep my family from finishing it off first! It's fantastic as a super snack with tortilla chips or as a relish with meat. —Connie Siese, Wayne, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 15 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 62mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
28/58

Mild Salsa Recipe for Canning

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:10 pints
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I got this salsa recipe from my sister, and my children and I have been making batches of it ever since. We pair pint jars with packages of tortilla chips for zesty Christmas gifts. When the kids give this present to their teachers, they can truthfully say they helped make it. —Pamela Lundstrum, Bird Island, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 14 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 182mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
29/58

Korean Wontons

Total Time:30 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Korean wontons (called mandoo) are not hot and spicy like many traditional Korean dishes. Filled with inexpensive vegetables and beef, the fried dumplings are very easy to prepare and so tasty. —Christy Lee, Horsham, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 wonton: 47 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 86mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
30/58

Avocado Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:20 min
Servings:about 7 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I was planning a party and thought it might be fun to try a different kind of avocado salsa. This recipe was an absolute success. Scoop it up with chips, spoon it over chicken or steak, or eat it on its own! —Susan Vandermeer, Ogden, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 82 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 85mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
31/58

Shrimp Lime Cilantro Skewers

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A quick garlicky lime marinade works magic on these juicy shrimp. They come off the grill with huge flavors perfect for your next cookout. —Melissa Rodriguez, Van Nuys, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 kabob: 167 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 284mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
32/58

Homemade Peanut Butter

Total Time:15 min
Servings:about 1 cup
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We eat a lot of peanut butter, so I decided to make my own. My homemade version is easier on my wallet, and I know what ingredients are in it. It's also a lot tastier! —Marge Austin, North Pole, Alaska
Nutrition Facts: 1 tablespoon: 111 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 75mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 fat.
33/58

Red Pepper Tapenade

Total Time:15 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When entertaining, I often rely on my pepper tapenade recipe because it takes only 15 minutes to whip up and pop in the fridge. Sometimes I swap in walnuts or pecans for the almonds. —Donna Magliaro, Denville, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons dip: 58 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 152mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
34/58

Roasted Chickpeas

Total Time:50 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Looking for a lighter snack that's still a crowd-pleaser? You've found it! These zesty, crunchy chickpeas will have everyone happily munching. —Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1/3 cup: 178 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 463mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 6g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
35/58

Sweet & Smoky Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 15 min
Servings:4 pints
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love the roasted flavor that grilling gives food, so I decided to make a salsa from grilled vegetables. I think this recipe would also taste great using plum tomatoes. If you can't use wood chip charcoal, you might try adding a little liquid smoke to the salsa while it cooks. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 49 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
36/58

Chicken Sliders with Sesame Slaw

Total Time:6 hours 25 min
Servings:20
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Everyone loves barbecue chicken sliders. My version has an Asian twist, with spicy, tangy flavors. At our potlucks, they quickly vanish. —Priscilla Yee, Concord, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 255 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 493mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
37/58

Herb-Roasted Olives & Tomatoes

Total Time:25 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Eat these roasted veggies with a crunchy baguette or a couple of cheeses. You can also double, or triple, the amounts and have leftovers to toss with spaghetti the next day. —Anndrea Bailey, Huntington Beach, California
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 71 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 380mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
38/58

Mummy Pigs in a Blanket

Total Time:35 min
Servings:20 appetizers (about 1 cup dip)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These flaky mummy sandwiches are instant party hits! The accompanying mustard dip adds just the right kick. —Jessie Sarrazin, Livingston, Montana
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer with 2 teaspoons dip: 128 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 287mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
39/58

Spicy Shrimp Salsa

Total Time:15 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Radishes add a wonderful crunch to this colorful salsa that is also superb over grilled fish. There's just enough jalapeno to give flavor without much of the heat. —Mary Beth Relyea, Canastota, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 38 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat.
40/58

Polynesian Kabobs

Total Time:30 min
Servings:14 kabobs
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With their explosion of flavors and textures, these kabobs make a quick, satisfying entree. —Chris Anderson, Morton, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 95 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 199mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
41/58

Szechuan Pork Tacos

Total Time:1 hour 55 min
Servings:5 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: East meets South and Tex-Mex for savory, flavorful Chinese tacos. This recipe makes a lot, so you can use it for an appetizer party or as a potluck dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 58 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 133mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
42/58

Barbecue Chicken Bites

Total Time:25 min
Servings:1-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Chicken bites wrapped in bacon get a kick from Montreal seasoning and sweetness from barbecue sauce. We love the mix of textures. —Kathryn Dampier, Quail Valley, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 47 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 249mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
43/58

Contest-Winning Watermelon Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:20 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I entered this recipe in a local fair, and it took first place! This is one of my favorite dishes because all the ingredients (except for the lime juice) came directly from my garden and beehives. —Carolyn Butterfield, Lake Stevens, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 22 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
44/58

Steamed Turkey Dumplings

Contest Winner
Total Time:40 min
Servings:20 appetizers (1/3 cup sauce)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This appetizer tastes wonderful and doesn't make you feel as though you've eaten an entire meal. The dumplings are easy to make and a joy to serve—try them at your next get-together! — Donna Bardocz, Howell, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 dumpling with 3/4 teaspoon sauce: 52 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 208mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
45/58

Garden-Fresh Seafood Cocktail

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:6 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: For something cool on a hot day, we mix shrimp and crabmeat with crunchy veggies straight from the garden. Look for adobo seasoning in your grocery’s international section. —Teri Schloessmann, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 103 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 619mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
46/58

Strawberry Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:15 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This deliciously different salsa is versatile, fresh-tasting and colorful. People are surprised to see a salsa made with strawberries, but it's excellent over grilled chicken and pork or as a dip with corn chips. —Jean Giroux, Belchertown, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 19 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
47/58

Party Franks

Total Time:50 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These tiny, tangy appetizers have broad appeal. I prepare them often for holiday gatherings, weddings and family reunions. They're convenient to serve at parties since the sauce can be made ahead and then reheated with the franks before serving. —Lucille Howell, Portland, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1/3 cup: 268 calories, 21g fat (7g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 1047mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
48/58

Texas Caviar

Total Time:20 min
Servings:5 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I adapted this Texas caviar from one in a cookbook I received a long time ago, and now I can't imagine a get-together at my house without this quick and healthy appetizer. —Becky Oliver, Fairplay, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 68 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 200mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
49/58

Cucumber Fruit Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:24 (1/4 cup each)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Our garden always gives us way more cucumbers and tomatoes than we know what to do with. But we’ve learned how to handle the unexpected with a surprise of our own. This is our pretty, fresh way to use up the bounty. —Anna Davis, Springfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 15 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 26mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
50/58

Sweet-and-Sour Meatballs

Total Time:30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A fabulous sauce, green pepper and pineapple chunks transform premade meatballs into something special. Serving them over rice makes for a satisfying main dish. —Ruth Andrewson, Leavenworth, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 5 meatballs: 389 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 682mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
51/58

Catherine’s Guacamole

Total Time:15 min
Servings:2-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Get the scoop on making a standout guacamole. A handful of chopped celery adds some fun crunch in this avocado dip—everyone’s favorite fiesta starter. —Catherine Cassidy, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 75 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
52/58

Honey-Mustard Wings

Total Time:1 hour 15 min
Servings:about 3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: For a change from spicy Buffalo sauce, try these sweet and sticky wings. There's a good chance they'll become your new favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 85 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 59mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
53/58

Mushroom Bacon Bites

Contest Winner
Total Time:20 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is the perfect appetizer for most any occasion. The tasty bites are easy to assemble and brush with prepared barbecue sauce. When we have a big cookout, they're always a hit, but they make a nice little extra for a family dinner too. —Gina Roesner, Ashland, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 82 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 209mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
54/58

Corn Salsa

Total Time:50 min
Servings:about 2-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This colorful salsa is worth the extra time it takes to grill the ears of corn. The flavor goes well with barbecued meats, but it's also tasty served with chips. —Nancy Horsburgh, Everett, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 24 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
55/58

Avocado White Bean Dip

Total Time:15 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I love guacamole! But in this version I add beans to boost the amount of fiber. It has a texture similar to hummus and is perfect for dipping chips, pita or veggies. —Raquel Haggard, Edmond, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 80 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
56/58

Barbecued Shrimp & Peach Kabobs

Contest Winner
Total Time:35 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Shrimp grilled with peaches and green onions really sets off fireworks! The spicy seasonings even helped me win a ribbon at a county fair. —Jen Smallwood, Portsmouth, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 kabob: 170 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 289mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fruit.
57/58

White Bean Hummus

Total Time:5 min
Servings:10 (1-1/4 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My version of hummus features a delightful nuttiness from tahini, a peanut butter-like paste made from ground sesame seeds. The beans pack a lot of protein so it's a healthy snack for kids. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 78 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 114mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
58/58

Orange Shrimp Mojo

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With jalapeno, orange and avocado, this enticing entree is spicy, tangy and fresh with every bite. The sauce beautifully glazes the shrimp. —Don Thompson, Houston, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 172 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.

Dairy-Free Appetizers FAQ

What are some easy dairy-free dips for parties?

Some of the easiest dairy-free dips for parties include hummus, guacamole and roasted red pepper dip. Variations like roasted garlic or pesto hummus offer extra flavor without adding dairy. You can also blend white beans with garlic and lemon for a smooth, velvety spread or try a cashew-based queso dip if you want something richer. These dairy-free dips are simple to prep, can travel well, and pair easily with chips, crackers or sliced vegetables.

Are most dairy-free snacks also vegan?

Not all dairy-free snacks are vegan. While they leave out milk, cheese and butter, some recipes include animal products like eggs or meat. If you’re planning a vegan-friendly meal, it helps to make a plant-based grocery list that covers dairy-free foods and vegan ingredients. You can also tweak many popular savory snack recipes with plant-based meat substitutes to accommodate all dietary preferences.

What substitutes work best for cheese in dairy-free appetizers?

The best substitutes for cheese in dairy-free appetizers depend on what you’re making. Soaked cashews blended with lemon juice and garlic offer a rich, dairy-free base for creamy dips. Nutritional yeast, on the other hand, adds a savory, cheesy flavor to sauces and spreads. And when you need something that melts—like for nachos or baked dips—some of the best vegan cheese brands offer options with great texture and taste.