Best Easy Appetizers for Any Occasion

I've compiled a list of my very Best Easy Appetizers for Any Occasion so you can eat them with your eyes before making them in your kitchen.

And trust me; you WILL want to make these incredible snacks, dips, and appetizers to celebrate events throughout the year, such as New Year, the Big game, birthday parties, weddings, showers, anniversaries, family game night, and any other time you get together with friends and family for good food, and fun.

These delicious party foods work for fancy and casual gatherings and pair well with any beverage. Some are cheesy, some are hot, some are crunchy, and some are not. wink

What is the rule of thumb regarding appetizers per person?

It depends on how long it takes between appetizers and main course (lunch or dinner), but ideally between 1 - 4 appetizers for 1½ hours between the period and 4 - 6 appetizers per person for 2 hours or longer.

Is there an appropriate number of assorted appetizers, snacks, and dips to serve at a party or gathering?

I like having at least three different kinds of snacks and/or appetizers when I entertain, but I also firmly believe in the more-is-merrier mindset.

When should appetizers be served before a main course?

It is best to serve appetizers shortly after guests arrive so there will be enough time between the appetizers and the main course so people are still hungry.

Can appetizers be served alone for a gathering?

They sure can, and that's my favorite type of party. An appetizer party. If you plan on serving strictly appetizers, plan on having several different kinds and enough of them so people feel satisfied and do not walk away hungry.

How to keep appetizers hot during a party?

I like to use flexible warming trays to keep things hot, but using a large, small, or even a triple slow cooker will come in handy, as will an electric skillet or even an attractive chafing dish, which can really elevate the party vibe.

How to keep appetizers cold during a party?

This is especially important when serving seafood, shellfish, or mayonnaise-based snacks and appetizers, as they need to remain cold while they're out for service, especially if it's an outdoor party and the temperatures are hot.

There are several different options for chilling party food, such as flexible freeze party mats, a party bowl/platter with a bottom compartment for ice, and this cold food buffet server with four separate compartments.

What are the best types of plates to use for appetizers?

Something sturdy that won't leak is always the best choice. The options for plates and napkins are unlimited, so choose the ones that match the theme or party occasion.

Proper etiquette to follow when serving/eating appetizers and snacks?

• The two to three-bite (per appetizer) rule is always helpful for guests standing and eating.
• Please ensure there are spoons for any dips so guests can add them to their plates and not have to hover near the dip bowl.
• Never double dip.
• Don't overload your plate for the first round until almost everyone at the event has had a chance to sample the appetizers. Once everyone has had an opportunity to take what they like, you can go back and choose more.
• Use toothpicks, tongs, napkins, and spoons (if available) instead of using your fingers to take what you like.
• Always leave toothpicks, napkins, and used plates to be discarded in the kitchen or a designated garbage bin, if available. Do not leave plates, napkins, cups, and toothpicks around randomly.

Should you have any questions or comments regarding anything you've seen on my site, please don't hesitate to reach out to contact me. It is always my distinct pleasure to get back with you just as soon as I possibly can!

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Until we eat again, I hope you have a delicious day!