From crab bites to spicy salsas, these easy no-cook appetizers keep entertaining simple, colorful and delicious, while keeping you cool.
1/55
Homemade Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 90 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
2/55
Marinated Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
This special appetizer always makes it to our neighborhood parties and is the first to disappear from the buffet table. It's attractive, delicious—and so easy! —Laurie Casper, Coraopolis, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 ounce cheese: 121 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
3/55
BLT Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
These quick hors d’oeuvres may be mini, but their bacon and tomato flavor is full size. I serve them at parties, brunches and picnics, and they’re always a hit…even my kids love them. —Kellie Remmen, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed tomato: 113 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 206mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
4/55
Cream Cheese Fruit Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Color it Christmas with a platter of red and green apple slices piled ’round a bowl of this yummy no-fuss cream cheese fruit dip! The dip also goes well with strawberries, grapes and kiwi.
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 179 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 95mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
5/55
Stuffed Dates
From the Recipe Creator:
Four ingredients are all you need for these citrus-flavored stuffed dates. —Diana Debruyn, Cincinnati, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3 stuffed dates: 102 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 37mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit, 1/2 fat.
6/55
Antipasto Platter
From the Recipe Creator:
We entertain often, and an antipasto platter is one of our favorite crowd-pleasers. Guests love having their choice of so many delicious nibbles, including pepperoni and cubes of provolone. —Teri Lindquist, Gurnee, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 157 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 727mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
7/55
Southern Pimiento Cheese Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
A classic southern comfort food, this spread is used as an appetizer with crackers, corn chips or celery. It is also smeared between two slices of white bread for sandwiches and as a topping for hamburgers and hot dogs. —Eileen Balmer, South Bend, Indiana.
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 116 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
8/55
Salmon Mousse
From the Recipe Creator:
It’s so easy to top crunchy cucumber slices with a smooth and creamy salmon filling. Guests rave about the fun presentation, contrasting textures and refreshing flavor. —Barb Templin, Norwood, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 42 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
9/55
7-Layer Bean Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
To make this zesty 7-layer bean dip, you simply layer the ingredients onto a platter. I like to call it a “walking dip,” because you can scoop some on a plate with a few tortilla chips, then take it with you as you walk and talk with guests. —Marieann Johansen, Desert Hot Springs, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 102 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 283mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
10/55
Pico de Gallo
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy and versatile pico de gallo recipe is a classic for a reason. The jalapeño peppers add just the right amount of kick. Let it chill for an hour or two before serving to help the flavors blend. —Jeannie Trudell, Del Norte, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 14 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 40mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
11/55
Cucumber Canapes
From the Recipe Creator:
I always get requests for the recipe for these canapes whenever I serve them. They’re delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread and festive garnishes. —Nadine Whittaker, South Plymouth, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 120 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 134mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
12/55
Crudite Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
To bring out the crudite dip’s tangy flavor, chill it before serving. This will allow the flavors time to blend. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 102 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 117mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
13/55
Bee My Honey Fruit Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Orange, cinnamon and nutmeg round out this creamy spiced dip. I serve it with apples, pineapple and strawberries. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 95 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 52mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
14/55
Shrimp Tostadas
From the Recipe Creator:
I love shrimp and veggies marinated in citrus juice, also known as ceviche. This recipe starts with cooked shrimp and those same fresh ceviche flavors. Enjoy these tostadas as a make-ahead appetizer or dinner entree. — Leslie Kelley, Dorris, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 tostada: 209 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 109mg cholesterol, 448mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
15/55
Strawberry Cream Cheese Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
After a card game one evening, our hostess served graham crackers spread with prepared strawberry cream cheese. The flavor combination was delicious. So I decided to create this Strawberry Cream Cheese Dip using fresh berries. Guests appreciate this simple snack. —Carol Gaus, Elk Grove Village, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 64 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 45mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
16/55
Quick Tortilla Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
Prepare these easy, cheesy pinwheels several days in advance if desired. Serve them with your choice of mild or hot salsa or picante sauce. —Barbara Keith, Faucett, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 47 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 51mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
17/55
Herbed Feta Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Guests can’t get enough of this thick, zesty dip that bursts with fresh Mediterranean flavor. The feta cheese and fresh mint complement each other beautifully, creating the perfect sidekick for crunchy carrots, toasted pita chips, sliced baguettes or any other dipper you fancy.—Rebecca Ray, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 176 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 361mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
18/55
Artichoke Caprese Platter
From the Recipe Creator:
I dressed up the classic Italian trio of mozzarella, tomatoes and basil with marinated artichokes. It looks so yummy on a pretty platter set out on a buffet. Using fresh mozzarella is the key to its great taste. —Margaret Wilson, San Bernardino, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 192 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
19/55
Watermelon Cups
From the Recipe Creator:
This lovely appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 7 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
20/55
Mustard Dip for Pretzels
From the Recipe Creator:
With just four ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge, this quick appetizer comes together in a snap. If you like the zip of horseradish, start with a teaspoon or two and add more to taste. —Isabelle Rooney, Summerville, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoon: 154 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
21/55
Northwest Cherry Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
We have five cherry trees—and I like to use every bit of fruit that doesn't get eaten right off of them. We enjoy salsa on a variety of dishes, especially this turkey. —Margaret Slocum, Ridgefield, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 18 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 55mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: Free food.
22/55
Curry Pineapple Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
????The flavors blend deliciously in this refreshing pineapple dip. It’s also terrific with an assortment of vegetables or your favorite fancy crackers. —Barb Meninga, Kalamazoo, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons with 3 pineapple pieces: 179 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
23/55
Mini Muffuletta
From the Recipe Creator:
Mediterranean meets comfort food when French rolls are slathered with olive spread and stuffed with layers of salami and cheese. You can make these muffulettas the night before and cut them into appetizer-sized slices just before serving. —Gareth Craner, Minden, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 119 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 537mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
24/55
Garlic Cheese Ball
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of our entertaining mainstays. It complements most meals and is so easy to prepare and dress up with a variety of garnishes. —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 98 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 109mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
25/55
Caprese Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
26/55
Buttery Radish Baguette
From the Recipe Creator:
My dad and brother are crazy for radishes, and this peppery baguette appetizer is a big-time favorite. Add a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley on top. —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer (calculated without sea salt): 76 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 107mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
27/55
Olive-Stuffed Celery
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandmother taught both me and my mom this appetizer recipe for stuffed celery. We always serve it at Christmas and Thanksgiving. The stuffing is so yummy that even if you don't normally care for the ingredients on their own, you'll love the end result. —Stacy Powell, Santa Fe, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 61 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 228mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
28/55
Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Besides being tasty, these little tomato poppers are extra awesome because you can make them ahead of time. At parties, I often triple the recipe because they disappear fast. —Christi Martin, Elko, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed tomato: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fat.
29/55
Gingered Mango Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Zesty cilantro and ginger meet cool mint in this change-of-pace salsa. "We love it over grilled chicken, fish and pork," says Barb Fore of McAllen, Texas. "Try substituting the mango with papaya."
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 39 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 120mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
30/55
Olive Oil Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Combine a blend of herbs to create this mouthwatering mix. Plumping the herbs in water before stirring into olive oil enhances the flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 tablespoon dipping oil: 122 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
31/55
Crab Louie Lettuce Wraps
From the Recipe Creator:
Party guests can mingle and enjoy these tasty portable lettuce wraps without having to juggle plates and forks. — Michael Watz, Normal, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 filled lettuce wrap with about 2 tablespoons sauce: 160 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein.
32/55
Salami Roll-Ups
From the Recipe Creator:
These bite-size appetizers are a cinch to make with just four ingredients—even your kids can help you with them! —Jean Baffuto, Apache Junction, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll-up: 49 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 120mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
33/55
Marshmallow Fruit Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
You can whip up this sweet and creamy dip in just 10 minutes. I like to serve it in a bowl surrounded by fresh-picked strawberries at spring brunches or luncheons. —Cindy Steffen, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 56 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 24mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
34/55
Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives
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.
35/55
Shrimp Salad Appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
This refreshing hors d'oeuvre has gained a big following since a friend shared her family recipe with me. My son says it best: The celery and shrimp are so good together. —Solie Kimble, Kanata, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 31 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
36/55
Bacon, Cheddar and Swiss Cheese Ball
From the Recipe Creator:
When it’s time for a party, everyone always requests this ultimate cheese ball—it’s such an impressive appetizer. And if you’re a party guest, it makes a fabulous gift for your hosts.—Sue Franklin, Lake St. Louis, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 116 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 194mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
37/55
Pastrami Roll-Ups
From the Recipe Creator:
For a book club event, I created pastrami roll-ups with cream cheese and a pickle. Those tasty bites quickly pulled a disappearing act. —Merritt Heinrich, Oswego, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll-up: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 158mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
38/55
Mango Avocado Spring Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
As a fan of mangoes and avocados, I love these wraps. You can substitute tortillas for rice paper wrappers, and lettuce or spinach for sprouts. —Gena Stout, Ravenden, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 spring roll: 117 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 86mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
39/55
Turkey Tea Sandwiches with Basil Mayonnaise
From the Recipe Creator:
Basil mayonnaise is the secret to these tasty little sandwiches. Keep any extra mayo in the fridge to spread on other sandwiches, stir into egg salad or layer on pizza crust before topping it with other ingredients. —Lara Pennell, Mauldin, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 tea sandwich: 90 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
40/55
Crisp Cucumber Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a fantastic way to use cucumbers. You'll love the creamy and crunchy texture and super fresh flavors. —Charlene Skjerven, Hoolpe, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 16 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 44mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
41/55
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
This festive dip is a snap to make, taking only 10 minutes from start to finish. Thanks to its hint of sweetness, both kids and adults will gobble it up. —Frankie Robinson, Lockhart, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 76 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 84mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
42/55
Turkey Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
Need an awesome snack for game day? My kids love these easy four-ingredient turkey pinwheels. Go ahead and make them the day before—they won’t get soggy! —Amy Van Hemert, Ottumwa, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 51 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
43/55
Shrimp and Cucumber Canapes
From the Recipe Creator:
These cute stacks really stand out in a holiday appetizer buffet. Tasty, cool and crunchy, they come together in a snap. —Ashley Nochlin, Port St. Lucie, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 50 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
44/55
Dilly Mini Cheese Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
These mini cheese balls are perfect for any gathering, no matter what time of year it is! Kids love the cheesy, salty flavor, and adults appreciate how easy they are to make. —Carole Lanthier, Courtice, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini cheese ball: 56 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 65mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
45/55
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
It's up to you how to enjoy this cocktail—eat it with a spoon as a chilled soup, or use tortilla chips or crackers for scooping. —Erin Moreno, Arcadia, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 142 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 826mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
46/55
Salmon Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
This salmon dip is a delightful hors d'oeuvre that's excellent for any occasion. The combination of salmon, cream cheese and spices gives it terrific flavor. —Raymonde Hebert Bernier, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 103 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
47/55
Fruit Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
We came up with this fresh and fruity summer snack idea. It's easy to make ahead and carry to the ballpark, beach or playground, and the cinnamon-spiced yogurt dip adds a fun touch kids love. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob with 2 tablespoons dip: 147 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
48/55
Ham Pickle Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom introduced me to this ham pickle pinwheels appetizer a number of years ago, and I've been making them for parties ever since. They are easy to make and are always well received by guests. —Gloria Jarrett, Loveland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 34 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 105mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
49/55
Pineapple Pecan Cheese Ball
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheese ball will keep for several days in the refrigerator. It's delicious! I've found it's especially popular at a party or get-together.
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 98 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 99mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
50/55
Garlic Garbanzo Bean Spread
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.
51/55
Olives and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
We love to make meals into celebrations, and antipasto always kicks off the party for Italian dinners. This one is almost too pretty to eat, especially when sprinkled with pimientos, fresh basil and parsley. —Patricia Harmon, Baden, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without baguette): 168 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
52/55
Crab Appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
I always like a little extra chili sauce on top of these easy snacks. If you're out of crab, water-packed tuna works well too. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 filled phyllo cup: 34 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 103mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
53/55
Thai Veggie Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
This delicious dip is full of flavor, color and crunch, but not full of calories. There's mild sweetness from the honey with a bit of heat at the end from the pepper flakes. If spicy food is your thing, feel free to add an extra dash of pepper. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without vegetables): 73 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 99mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
54/55
Cherry Cheese Logs
From the Recipe Creator:
Our party guests flock to this holiday gem of an appetizer - cherry-studded cream cheese served with graham or water crackers and pears. —Libby Walp, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 131 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
55/55
Spicy Shrimp Salsa
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.
Easy, No-Cook Appetizers FAQ
What are some easy, no-cook appetizers for parties?
Easy, no-cook appetizers for parties can be made entirely in advance and refrigerated until the party starts, like cold dips and skewers with meat, fruit and vegetables. These recipes come together quickly and are perfect for casual gatherings or more formal events. For an eye-catching display, use a wooden board or mirrored tray, and finish with sprigs of rosemary, lemon wedges or a handful of edible flowers to elevate even the simplest bites.
Can I prepare no-cook appetizers ahead of time?
Many no-cook appetizers can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Recipes like bean dips, caprese salad cups or cream cheese-stuffed mini bell peppers often taste even better after a few hours of chilling, when the flavors have had time to develop.
These types of appetizers also hold up well alongside warm make-ahead tailgating food to round out a menu when portability matters. Just assemble them in advance and refrigerate in airtight containers. Add garnishes like herbs, citrus zest or a drizzle of sauce just before serving, and keep crackers or bread separate until the last minute to prevent sogginess.
What are the best no-cook appetizers for summer?
The best no-cook summer appetizers are crisp and cool with bold flavors that stand up to a hot day, like whipped feta with peaches or marinated artichoke hearts. Pair juicy plums, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes with creamy dips or salty cheeses to take advantage of seasonal ingredients with minimal prep. Use a chilled platter for outdoor parties or set small dishes over ice so everything stays cool. Serve these recipes with other no-cook summer sides for easy warm-weather hosting.
