travel appetizers

17 Make Ahead Appetizers That Travel Well (Easy Recipes)

• June 2, 2023
• Appetizers , Recipes

Not sure what to bring to a party that you’re traveling to?

Here are 17 easy make ahead appetizers that travel well and can be served cold or at room temperature so that you never have to come to a party empty-handed ever again.

Table of Contents

If you’re anything like me, you get a little stressed when asked to bring an appetizer to a party. What can I make that is both easy to make and will travel well? 

Well, fear not!

I have put together a list of 17 EASY recipes make ahead appetizers that travel well and are sure to become a crowd favorite.

What are some things to keep in mind when planning appetizers to take to a party?

When planning appetizers to take to a party, keep food safety in mind. Choose an appetizer that can be kept hot or cold on the road, or served at room temperature in case an oven isn’t available to use at your hosts’ house.

You may want to consider freezing the appetizer and then thawing it out in a cooler as you travel. Additionally, make sure to take into account any dietary restrictions of your fellow party-goers.

17 Make Ahead Appetizers That Travel Well

From dips and spreads to finger foods and easy cold appetizers, I’ve got you covered. So the next time you are faced with bringing food to a party, take a look at this list of portable appetizers and choose something that fits your needs or any requests from the host.

Cold appetizers that travel well

Here are some easy cold appetizer recipes and finger foods that can simply be made, placed on a serving plate, covered in plastic wrap, and simply unwrapped and served at the location of the party.

1. Loaded Cheese Ball

This easy recipe features a combination of cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, walnuts, and dried beef that’s shaped into a delicious ball of goodness and then topped with some green onions. Simply wrap it in some plastic wrap and bring it to a party. You can keep it in the fridge until ready to serve or simply serve at room temperature.

Make sure to also bring some crackers or fresh veggies for the guests to scoop up the cheese ball.

Recipe: Bitz & Giggles

Related: 17 Crazy Cool Ritz Cracker Treats

2. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo chicken dip is the perfect appetizer for game day, family get-togethers, or the holiday season! Shredded chicken is mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch mix dressing and seasoned with hot sauce, blue cheese, and green onions. It’s perfect with tortilla chips, crackers, or celery sticks.

Recipe: Saporito Kitchen

Related Post: 13 Mini Crockpot Dip Recipes

3. Fresh Corn Salsa

Recipe: I Heart Eating

Related Post: 30+ Make-ahead Freezable Appetizers

4. Beet Hummus

Beetroot dip, or hummus, is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy one of the earth’s finest vegetables. This vibrant pink dip is perfect for any party or gathering, and is sure to be a hit. Serve the creamy hummus with some pita chips, fresh veggies, and crackers, or use as a spread.

Recipe: The Salt and Sweet

Related: 50 Easy Make Ahead Appetizers for a Party

Pinwheel Wraps

Pinwheels are a great option for easy make-ahead appetizers as they taste great when served cold, can be easily transported, and are a bite-sized treat that are made with a flour tortilla that’s filled with a creamy filling, and always a total crowd-pleaser.

5. Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Roll Ups

Recipe: From Valerie’s Kitchen

Related: 17 Easy Party Food For a Crowd Cheap Recipes

6. Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Pinwheels

Recipe: Will Cook for Smiles

7. Mediterranean Pinwheels

Recipe: Savor The Best

Related Post: 15 Easy No-Cook Finger Food Recipes

Skewers 

Need a last minute appetizer made from ingredients you most likely already have in your fridge? Skewers or kabobs are your best friend!

They are easy cold appetizers that can be made ahead and customized to your liking. Here are 3 skewers recipes to choose from:

8. Antipasto Skewers

Recipe: From Valeries Kitchen

Related: 17 Simple Cold Appetizers on a Stick

9. Salad Kabobs

Recipe: Sunglow Kitchen

Related: 45 Bite-Sized Appetizers for Your Party

10. Fresh Fruits on Skewers

Recipe: Spend With Pennies

Related: Light Appetizers To Serve Before A Heavy Meal

Make ahead room temperature appetizers:

These appetizers taste best when served at room temperature or slightly heated up for a few minutes if you have an oven available.

11. Rolo Stuffed Ritz Crackers

These caramel and chocolate stuffed rolo treats can be made up to 3 days in advance and are perfect for serving at room temperature.

Recipe: OhClary

12. Whipped Feta Dip

This flavorful dip is a quick 5-minute recipe that looks super elegant and is perfect for bringing to fancy events.

You only need 4 simple ingredients to make this unique dip recipe including feta cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon, and some grape or cherry tomatoes to top.

Serve with pita wedges, crostini, crackers, and veggie sticks. The whipped feta dip would also be perfect to be served as the star on a cheese board.

Recipe: Herbs & Flour

Related: 20+ Appetizers With Ground Beef

13. Taco Pinwheels

Delicious pinwheels stuffed with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese topped with your favorite taco toppings. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better than a regular taco, these taco roll-ups have come to blow your mind and impress all the party guests!

Recipe: Love From The Oven

Related: 27 Winter Finger Food Ideas for Parties

14. Rachel Rays Swiss Bacon Dip

This creamy dip is the perfect combination of savory and salty, with a bit of a kick from the horseradish!

If you want a dip recipe that will have your guests scraping the bowl for the last drop and asking you for the recipe, try this easy appetizer recipe!

Recipe: Get On My Plate

Related: Best Game Day Appetizers and Easy Finger Foods

15. Brie and Jam Puff Pastry Bites

Delicious finger food bites made with store-bought puff pastry. It features classic Christmas ingredients such as brie cheese, cranberry sauce, fig jam, and walnuts and would be perfect at serving at a holiday gathering.

Recipe: Simply Scrumptious

Related Post: 25 Christmas Finger Food Recipes

16. Garlic Knots

Little strips of dough that are knotted up and topped with a garlic parmesan cheese topping and baked to golden brown perfection. Serve with some tomato sauce for a satisfying snack.

Related: 25 Savoury Puff Pastry Appetizers

17. Sushi Bake Cupcakes

Indulge in Baked Sushi Cups, a unique twist on a classic favorite. These delicious sushi-inspired appetizers offer a delightful and innovative way to enjoy sushi at your next gathering or party. Plus, they are so easy to make ahead in large quantities thanks to the use of a muffin pan!

18. Crockpot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This portable appetizer is the easiest dip you could ever make and it’s super easy to transport in your crockpot. Simply dump all of the ingredients into your crockpot, set it to cook, and when ready, take the whole crock pot to the party and plug it in to keep warm. Serve with some pita chips or crackers and watch how everyone will want to try this delicious creamy and cheesy dip!

Easy Recipe for Spinach Artichoke Dip

19. Garlic Butter Steak Bites 

These delicious steak bites in a garlic butter sauce are the perfect easy manly appetizers for Game Day or any other party where there are lots of meat lovers.

They are super easy to transport and will be sure to be a huge crowd-pleaser!

Garlic Butter Steak Bites Appetizer Recipe

Related: 10 Easy Chinese Appetizers To Try

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15 Make Ahead Appetizers That Travel Well (Easy Recipes)

No one wants to show up to a party empty handed. These 15 easy make ahead appetizers that travel well will make you the MVP of any party! All of these recipes can be made in advance and are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

• Loaded Cheese Ball
• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Fresh Corn Salsa
• Beet Hummus
• Buffalo Chicken Tortilla Roll Ups
• Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Pinwheels
• Mediterranean Pinwheels
• Antipasto Skewers
• Salad Kabobs
• Fresh Fruits on Skewers
• Whipped Feta Dip
• Taco Pinwheels
• Rachel Rays Swiss Bacon Dip
• Brie and Jam Puff Pastry Bites
• Garlic Knots

Instructions

• Select your favorite recipe for portable appetizers from the article.
• Click on the link to get the full recipe.
• Cook and enjoy the delicious treats!

Nutrition Information:

The nutritional information is based on the Buffalo Chicken Dip (#2 recipe on the list)

And there you have it.

15 delicious & easy appetizers that travel well to bring to your next party!

What do you think are the best appetizers that travel well to bring to a party?

Let me know in the comments down below. 

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Profile menu, our best portable appetizers.

Choose these easy, no-mess appetizers when you need to take a dish to the party and feel confident that it will be perfect when you arrive. The trick to bringing an appetizer to a party is making sure it arrives as beautiful, and as tasty, as when you left home. Save yourself the prepping, packaging, and hauling of food prep items and instead make a dish that travels beautifully. From basic dips to candied bacon, this collection of portable appetizer recipes has something for everyone.

Cheesy Sausage Roll-Ups

Cheesy Sausage Roll-Ups Recipe

These southwestern-style roll-ups require just 5 ingredients. 

Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon

Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon Recipe

Potato halves serve as the base of savory Fingerling Potatoes with Avocado and Smoked Salmon appetizers.

Roquefort Cheesecake with Pear Preserves and Pecans

Roquefort Cheesecake with Pear Preserves and Pecans Recipe

Make this savory cheesecake and let it chill overnight, or longer. It’s easy to transport to a party on a platter since there’s nothing to spill or jiggle. When you get to the party, top the cheesecake with preserves and pecans.

Basil Aïoli with Crudités

Basil Aïoli with Crudités Recipe

Make a simple, herbed aioli for dipping crunchy veggies. We like baby carrots, endive, and asparagus, but you could use any fresh seasonal vegetables.

Chicken Salad Pitas

Chicken Salad Pitas Recipe

Pepper jelly adds a sweet-hot note to Chicken Salad Pitas. And you'll love the extra zing from lemon zest and ground red pepper that's been added to these appetizer sandwiches.

Cheesy Masa Pancakes with Pico de Gallo

Cheesy Masa Pancakes with Pico de Gallo Recipe

Masa harina adds delicate corn flavor to these bite-size pancakes. Look for it on the baking aisle.

Jalapeño Cheese Straws

Jalapeño Cheese Straws Recipe

Try this fancy-looking cheese straw recipe for a no-hassle appetizer you can take on the go. This subtly spicy recipe even impressed our Test Kitchen staff!

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons Recipe

Pecan-Rosemary-Cheddar Buttons combine nutty pecans and earthy rosemary to create a robust riff on the average Cheddar cheese straw.

Pepper Jack Grits Poppers

Pepper Jack Grits Poppers Recipe

Prep everything before you arrive, and then pop the peppers until the broiler for a few minutes just before serving.

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe

Smoked salmon is always a special treat, and this creamy dip is a great way to feature its rich flavor. Since it’s a relatively thick dip, it’s easy to transport in a festive serving dish covered with plastic wrap. You can pre-chop some fresh veggies to serve with the dip, or just buy a package of breadsticks or crackers.

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail

Contemporary Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Revive this party staple by setting out a bountiful platter of shrimp with three bowls of zingy new sauces: Avocado Cream, Tequila-Lime Cocktail Sauce, and Ginger Rémoulade.

Olive-Blue Moons

Olive-Blue Moons Recipe

Spanish olives and blue cheese bring distinct flavor to each bite of savory Olive-Blue Moons.

Vanilla-Spice Nuts

Vanilla-Spice Nuts Recipe

Add festive holiday flavor to toasted mixed nuts with vanilla, cinnamon, allspice and cardamom. Spiced nuts are close to being the perfect portable appetizer: make-ahead, no liquids to spill during transport, no reheating required, and an empty, non-messy bowl guaranteed at the end of the party.

Country Chicken Pâté

Country Chicken Pâté Recipe

You can't go wrong with an appetizer that's served at room temperature. This rich-and-creamy spread is best accompanied by a French bread baguette, coarse-grained mustard, and crunchy gherkins.

Mustard-Dill Tortellini Salad Skewers

Mustard-Dill Tortellini Salad Skewers Recipe

Crunched for time? Nix the skewers, and toss salad with 1/2 cup of dressing just before serving. Spoon into a pretty bowl, and garnish with a dill sprig.

Millionaire's Candied Bacon

Millionaire's Candied Bacon Recipe

Offer guests sweet-savory bites of Millionaire's Candied Bacon at your next party. You'll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Savory Spiced Shortbreads

Savory Spiced Shortbreads Recipe

These savory shortbread rounds will be a welcome addition to any party and are sturdy enough to travel. In addition to the batch you're bringing for guest to enjoy, package a few extra in a decorative box and give as a hostess gift along with a bottle of wine.

Smoked Salmon-Cardamom Spread

Smoked Salmon-Cardamom Spread Recipe

Even though this make-ahead spread is super easy, the smoked salmon adds a bit of sophistication. You can't go wrong when you show up with this tasty salmon appetizer, and you an be assured that you won't be taking any back home.

Crostini with Cucumber, Smoked Salmon, and Dill

Crostini with Cucumber, Smoked Salmon, and Dill Recipe

Top baked bread slices with cream cheese, cucumber, and smoked salmon to make this tasty appetizer.

Mini Bacon and Potato Frittatas

Mini Bacon and Potato Frittatas Recipe

Our savory little frittatas can be prepared up to a month in advance and frozen until ready to use, when they'll just need a quick reheat in your host's oven.

Baked Beef Empanadas

Baked Beef Empanadas Recipe

You have a choice with these to-go appetizers – serve them at room temperature or reheat at your destination. Guests will devour them either way.

Olive and Onion Tapenade

Olive and Onion Tapenade Recipe

Transform the party olive tray into a tasty, take-along tapenade. Serve this pungent, salty spread with baguette slices and crudités.

Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Wafers

Cranberry-Pecan Cheese Wafers Recipe

These savory, buttery cheese wafers have just a touch of sweetness from the dried cranberries and are perfect for a holiday cocktail buffet. You can transport and serve them in a festive tin or put them in a heavy-duty plastic bag and arrange on a platter when you get to the party.

Garlicky Spinach Dip with Hearts of Palm

Garlicky Spinach Dip with Hearts of Palm Recipe

This thick, hearty dip is definitely travel worthy. If your trip is under 15 minutes, go ahead and bake it before you leave the house and it'll be fine when you arrive.

Cheese Olivettes

Cheese Olivettes Recipe

Alice describes these little bites as cheese straws with an olive stuffed inside. They were a special treat reserved for holidays and for whenever her parents hosted the supper club in their Birmingham, Alabama, home.

Cranberry-Jalapeño Salsa

Cranberry-Jalapeño Salsa Recipe

Offer a festive alternative to tomato salsa during the holidays with this make-ahead salsa featuring fresh cranberries and jalapeño pepper. You can make the salsa up to a month ahead and freeze. When it’s time to take it to the party, just thaw, spoon into a serving bowl, and bring along a bag of tortilla chips.

Chipotle Shrimp Cups

Chipotle Shrimp Cups Recipe

The components of this deceptively easy appetizer can be prepared the night before. Then, just assemble and heat before you hit the road or when you arrive at your destination.

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Cranberry BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Cranberry jelly is the secret to these sweet and savory BBQ meatballs.

Artichoke and Fennel Caponata

Artichoke and Fennel Caponata Recipe

Because this chunky vegetable spread can be served at room temperature or chilled, it's a great recipe to take to a party. Serve with sturdy crackers, pita chips, or toasted bread slices.

Cheese Straws

Cheese Straws Recipe

Make several batches of these easy cheese straws before the holiday season gets started, and freeze them in heavy-duty zip-lock plastic bags. When you need something to take to a party, just take some out of the freeze about 30 minutes before you leave. Take them to the party in the bag and arrange them on a platter or in julep cups after you arrive.

Green Pea Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto

Green Pea Pesto Crostini with Prosciutto Recipe

Offering a bright pop of color and requiring next to no prep time, these tasty little toasts are equally ideal for special spring gatherings and casual afternoon snacking. You can assemble them up to 45 minutes before serving and they won't sog out.

Parmesan and Herb Cheese Puffs

Parmesan and Herb Cheese Puffs Recipe

These rich pastry bites can be baked right from the freezer so your guests can eat them warm.

Roasted Carrot Platter

Roasted Carrot Platter Recipe

Scoop up these spiced carrots and seasoned yogurt with freshly toasted pita chips.

Chilled Mussels with Saffron Mayo

Chilled Mussels with Saffron Mayo Recipe

A spicy Provençal sauce called rouille inspired the mayo for this easy, elegant platter; you'll have enough extra for sandwiches.

Bacon Baklava

Bacon Baklava Recipe

Cleta Burden of Porterville, California, took traditional baklava and added everybody's favorite ingredient. The result: outrageous and addictive.

Field Pea-and-Radish Crostini

Field Pea-and-Radish Crostini Recipe

Combine ricotta, lemon zest, and black pepper and spread the ricotta mixture over each toast; top evenly with the pea mixture and serve.

Chicken Bites with Tomato Mint Salsa

Chicken Bites with Tomato Mint Salsa Recipe

If gluten-free guests are on your invite list, make this mellow dunking salsa with a flour-free brand of chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, such as La Costeña.

Bacon-Fig Tassies

Bacon-Fig Tassies Recipe

Pinched for time? Swap the dough for frozen mini-phyllo pastry shells.

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans

Benne-Maple Roasted Pecans Recipe

Make these a few days ahead, and chill in an airtight container.

Crispy Potato Chips

Crispy Potato Chips Recipe

Slice potatoes as thin as possible.

Fried Hominy

Fried Hominy Recipe

Dangerously delicious, this is the new popcorn for tree trimming--if you don't eat it all first.

Gumbo Rice Fritters

Gumbo Rice Fritters Recipe

You can make the rice balls two weeks ahead and freeze. Bread and fry straight from the freezer.

Garlic, Avocado, and Tomato Toast

Garlic, Avocado, and Tomato Toast Recipe

Quick, simple, and pulling in at under ten ingredients makes these toasts a great appetizer option.

Marinated Olives and Almonds

Marinated Olives and Almonds Recipe

A big batch of these antipasti will last in the refrigerator up to a week. It's the perfect snack to serve unexpected holiday company. For extra flavor, use smoked almonds.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

This fresh, colorful swap for creamy shrimp dip was inspired by reader Carolyn Coleman.

Sweet Pea Crostini with Ricotta

Sweet Pea Crostini with Ricotta Recipe

Impress your company with this easy-to-prepare appetizer. Making your own ricotta is incredibly simple and doesn't require special equipment.

Orange-Basil Baked Brie

Orange-Basil Baked Brie Recipe

Serve on a pretty cutting board with a cheese knife, and let guests cut their own portions.

Split Pea Mini Pancakes with Mushroom Relish

Split Pea Mini Pancakes with Mushroom Relish Recipe

Garnish these festive bites with cilantro. They're best served hot but are also good at room temperature.

Sweet Potato Tartlets

Sweet Potato Tartlets Recipe

These festive tarts are the perfect sweet treat for grazing guests. You can make them up to a day ahead, and store, covered, in the fridge.

Shrimp-and-Andouille Gumbo Dip

Shrimp-and-Andouille Gumbo Dip Recipe

Use sliced veggies or bread sticks with this popular and tasty dip.

Wine-Spiked Cranberry Cheese Log

Wine-Spiked Cranberry Cheese Log Recipe

Use this succulent, syrupy fruit as a topping for pound cake or ice cream. You can also spoon it over a softened log of goat cheese instead of cream cheese.

Veggie Spring Rolls with Cashew-Ginger Dipping Sauce

Veggie Spring Rolls with Cashew-Ginger Dipping Sauce Recipe

Rice paper wrappers hold these slim-cut veggies together for a bright springtime treat.

Chicken Phyllo Turnovers

Chicken Phyllo Turnovers Recipe

This appetizer is based on bisteeya, a traditional Moroccan pastry that pairs savory, spiced meat and flaky phyllo with a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar. Make ahead: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month; bake frozen, unthawed pastries 5 additional minutes or until browned.

Melon, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Skewers

Melon, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Skewers Recipe

Put out half of the skewers, and keep the remaining chilled until ready to serve. Everyone loves a good melon salad , so we took that idea and "skewer-ed" it. Salty cured ham meets creamy, fresh melon for the ultimate savory/sweet combination. With the addition of smooth mozzarella cheese, these skewers are texturally satisfying and not shy on flavor. Your guests will absolutley the easiness and accessibility of these skewers, and you'd be surprised at how impressed they'll be.

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers

Bacon Bow Tie Crackers Recipe

There's nothing better than a simple appetizer. That is until you try this two-ingredient dish. Wrap crispy bacon around a buttery cracker for ultimate bite.

Spicy, Barely Sweet Supercrunch Granola

Spicy, Barely Sweet Supercrunch Granola Recipe

Our supremely crunchy, irresistible granola almost feels more like party mix (but still contains all those great whole grains). It stores well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.

Greek Crab Dip

Greek Crab Dip Recipe

With the salty richness of feta cheese and brightness from fresh lemon juice and herbs, this is an incredible twist on a classic creamy crab dip. Lump crab meat gives the dip an added touch of decadence, but it could also be made with less-expensive claw meat. Served with warm, crusty baguette slices this savory crab dip is the perfect “something different” to bring to your next potluck or party.

Flamin' Hot Cheetos Stuffed Jalapeños

Flamin' Hot Cheetos Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe

What do you get when you cross the most virally popular snack on the chip aisle with one of the most beloved appetizers of all time? Obviously, the hottest snacketizer around.

Touchdown Pinwheels

Touchdown Pinwheels Recipe

There is a whole lot of flavor wrapped up in these colorful little pinwheels. You can serve them cold as appetizers or a fun snack.

Tomato-Feta Bites

Tomato-Feta Bites Recipe

Start with frozen puff pastry to make these 6-ingredient Mediterranean-style appetizers featuring the savory goodness of tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

Boysenberry Wine Compote with Goat Cheese and Basil

Boysenberry Wine Compote with Goat Cheese and Basil Recipe

Here's one for your summer-party recipe stash. Wine and black pepper make the compote sophisticated, and you can put the whole thing together in minutes--for guests to serve themselves.

Sweet Pea and Avocado Dip with Baked Pita Chips

Sweet Pea and Avocado Dip with Baked Pita Chips Recipe

Incorporating green peas into this tasty summer snack not only reduces the amount of fat but also adds sweetness and further brightens the green color.

Mini Caprese Bites

Mini Caprese Bites Recipe

Serve these mini tomato and mozzarella skewers in individual glasses as an appetizer at a seated dinner party, or arrange on a platter for your buffet. Fresh mozzarella bites, tomatoes, basil, and balsomic join forces for a summery, adorable appetizers that will have your guests swooning. Kids love the presentation, and the skewers allow for easy, mess-free eating. Caprese is always a party showstopper, and these cute mini-skewer ideas are no exception.

Crab Cake Hush Puppies

Crab Cake Hush Puppies Recipe

Serve these Crab Cake Hush Puppies with your favorite rémoulade or cocktail sauce for tasty appetizers . Hush puppies, a Southern classic made by deep-frying a cornmeal batter gets a seafood makeover. Served with a creamy, thick dipping sauce, these salty critters are a great option for a potluck meal or an appetizer that serves to impress. Freeze any leftovers and defrost up to 3 months later.

Cranberry-Goat Cheese Canapés

Cranberry-Goat Cheese Canapés Recipe

Make Ahead: Stir together the cranberry mixture up to 3 days ahead of time. Assemble the canapés the day of your party.

Traditional Hummus

Traditional Hummus Recipe

When you take a dip to a party, it's a good idea to take a thick dip that's not likely to slosh out of the dish during transport. A creamy, garlicky bean dip like this one is ideal, especially since it's supposed to stand at room temperature about 30 minutes before serving. Just bring along a bag of pita chips for dippers.

Black-Eyed Pea Pâté

Black-Eyed Pea Pâté Recipe

A touch of salty country ham and shiitake mushrooms adds deep flavor to this earthy, creamy Southern spread. Serve with crostini.

Curried Crab Spread

Curried Crab Spread Recipe

This tangy seafood spread with crostini is an all-around schedule-saver–you can prepare it up to two days in advance of your party and whisk it right out the door. To save even more time, serve with crackers instead of baking the bread slices for the crostini.

Asparagus-Blue Cheese Canapés

Asparagus-Blue Cheese Canapés Recipe

Not a blue cheese fan? Use any soft, crumbly cheese you like atop these bite-sized toast squares.

Asian-Spiced Pecans

Asian-Spiced Pecans Recipe

Freeze a batch of these at the start of the holiday season, and you'll always have finger food ready to go – they'll keep in your freezer for up to a month. For easy transport, just put them in a glass jar and take an extra one to leave as gift for your host.

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33 Easy Travel Snacks for your Airplane Carry-On Bag

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When I travel, the foodie in me always has to bring snacks for the trip. I always plan for easy travel snacks for a few reasons. For starters I’m not always sure what terminal I’ll be in at the airport so the food choices might get dicey once I get past security. Next, depending on the airline I’m flying there might not be great options once I board the plane (we’ve all been there). Lastly, I like to be prepared when I’m traveling even when I arrive at my final destination to have quick portable fuel sources on hand for when *hangry* hits in the form of easy travel snacks.

In this blog post I’ve compiled all of my favorite easy travel snacks into one ultimate packing list for your carry-on bag and I’ll walk you through my process for what to consider when selecting the best snacks to bring on a plane.

How to Pack Easy Travel Snacks for your Carry-On Bag

Depending on the length of my trip I usually bring a variety of snacks intended to carry-on a plane. I consider these easy to pack snacks, snacks that travel well, and also snacks that fall into the healthy(ish) convenience food category following these guidelines: 

• Food I can’t find at my final travel destination

Drink Mixers

• Airport Snacks (snacks to bring on a plane and at the airport terminal)
• Emergency snacks (for when I’m super hungry)
• Perishables
• Non-Perishables
• Sweet Treats/Comfort Items

These categories might look a little different for you but it helps to determine what you might need at least a week before your trip so that you have time to shop around. This will also help to keep your trip planning a little less stressful so that you can spend your time concentrating on the last minute things you need to do before you go out of town.

To verify what easy travel snacks you can and cannot carry on flights check out TSA’s security guidelines and the rules of each country for International flights. Keep in mind that TSA considers foods like yogurts and cooked oatmeal as “gels” and they will be confiscated at security (I learned this the hard way). For any other liquids review the guidelines but generally speaking most liquids and gels are allowed if they are less than 3.4oz/100 ml.

How to Transport your Easy Travel Snacks

My last consideration for packing easy travel snacks are the containers the food will travel in. For the most part I lean towards things that are easy to dispose of like foil, wax paper, plastic baggies, and repurposed takeout containers. However, in consideration of the environment I often try to lean to more sustainable options if I can, such as: silicon bags, collapsible cups, collapsible bowls, insulated containers, and beeswax paper. 

The con to these items is you will have to carry them in your luggage throughout your trip. But the pro of these items is being environmentally responsible, having a vessel you can reuse throughout your trip for something else, and some of these containers can keep your snacks from getting crushed, hot, or cold (triple bonus). 

I like Stasher Bags and Zip Top Bags for a reusable bag option. Both of these brands are super durable, always hold up really well for traveling, and are great to repurpose for other easy travel snacks on a trip. 

Silicone Bags

Stasher Bags

These are great reusable bags for packing your travel snacks on the go.

Zip Top Bags

We love these bags for items that can’t lay flat! The structure of the bag makes it easy to carry your snacks and keep them from being crushed in your carry-on luggage.

Collapsible bowls have also been one of my favorites for eating things like oatmeal on the go and pre-made meals I might travel with (in an effort to clean out my fridge before I head out of town). I also like these collapsible cups from Stojo to make drinks portable and they don’t take up much room. If you have space for something bigger I like using the Snack Swell thermos containers for some travel foods on my trips since its a small insulated container to keep food hot or cold.

Bowls and Cups

Stojo Collapsible Bowl

We are loving the STOJO Collapsible Bowl. This holds 36oz and is a reusable silicone bowl for hot and cold food which makes it perfect for travel, meal prep, to-go Lunch, camping, and hiking. This is also microwave & dishwasher safe.

S’well S’nack Food Container

We love the S’well S’nack Stainless Steel Food Container. It’s 24 ounces and great for holding food you are traveling with that you want to keep hot or cold. This will keep your food for 8 Hours Hot for 6 Hours Cold.

This is a smaller version of the bigger S’nack by S’well Food Container. Its 10oz and has Double-Layered Insulated walls to keep food and drinks cold for 10 hours and hot for 4 hours!

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup

This collapsible travel cup comes with a straw and holds 16oz of liquid. Its reusable and pocket size for hot and cold drinks making it perfect for travel, camping, and hiking. Like the other Stojo products its microwave and dishwasher safe.

If you are traveling with any items that must stay at a colder temperature these PackIt Freezable pouches are a great option to transport your food. The PackIt Freezable pouch has groundbreaking cooling technology that includes freezable gel that is permanently built into the bag so that you don’t need to deal with separate ice packs.

To start collapse the bag flat and freeze in the freezer overnight until you are ready to use it. You can add any of the easy travel snacks that are perishable items in this post to store in this bag. You can also keep this item throughout your trip for other easy to pack snacks.

PackIt Freezable Pouch

This is our favorite travel product for traveling with items that are perishable and need to remain cold like yogurt and cheese. Simply pop the pouch in the freezer the night before your trip and it will keep your perishable snacks at the correct temperature for a few hours. This collapsible and folds up and comes in many colors!

My last favorite sustainable travel item is reusable wax paper. I like using the Bee’s Wrap brand. It takes a bit to get used to if you normally use regular wax paper. If you have a few baked goods, sandwiches etc. to carry while traveling it comes in handy to reuse a few times and store it completely flat in your carry on bag.

Bee’s Wrap

This Bee’s Wrap is an assorted 3 Pack great sustainable option. It’s plastic and silicone free reusable beeswax in 3 sizes great for traveling with sandwhiches.

Freezable Pouch

Freezable pouch

Order of Operations For Your Easy Travel Snacks

If you are planning to take some snacks to the airport for future travel plans my suggested cheat sheet of how to go about eating your easy travel snacks includes a simple order of consumption:

• Eat your perishable items first (for obvious reasons)
• Pack napkins and/or wet wipes (these are not always available as you are on the go)
• If you are bringing whole fruit wash these items before you get to the airport and use your napkin or paper towel as the vessel to carry the item (it also doubles as a napkin as you eat your fruit)
• Pack some travel utensils (for any snacks that require some deep diving or for complete meals)

Travel utensil set

Portable utensil set

Bamboo utensil set

My favorite snacks to bring on a plane.

Below is an easy travel snack list I’ve compiled of my favorite airport (and TSA) friendly snacks. I’ve grouped the items into perishable vs. non-perishable categories since I often will travel with a few perishable items that I strategize to eat first and then work my way through the rest of my snack stash either on the trip or eat other items during a longer flight to tide me over until I reach my destination. 

Perishable Easy Travel Snacks

For perishable easy travel snacks I always tend to pack food that can last a while at room temperature. Regardless of the length of your flight you’ll want items that won’t go bad in case it takes a while to get through security or to the airport (we’ve all been there!). Or even worse if your flight is delayed (done that!). On my list I usually include:

Cured Meats and Deli Meats

This includes salami, pastrami, pepperoni, ham, and turkey. These are great options because they can travel well at room temperature for short periods of time.

I think everyone loves cheese (even us lactose intolerant folks) and it travels well for short periods of time at room temperature. Some of my favorite cheese options are the Babybel Gouda Semisoft Cheeses. I like these because they have their own carrying case with the wax they are packaged in which qualifies the product as easy travel snack in my book.

My next favorite is Trader Joe’s Tapas cheese (it’s amazing! Grab it if you have a TJs near you). This includes several slices of three types of cheese including: Iberico, Cabra Al Vino (a.k.a. “ Drunken Goat “), and Manchengo. I really enjoy how the flavors in this set are so different and it feels very fancy while you are enjoying them.

Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are one of the best snacks for traveling. I typically boil eggs once a week so I’ll grab 2-4 for a flight or whatever is left over in my fridge for the week (this is also a good way to clean out your fridge before you head out of town). You can also purchase eggs that are already boiled from almost any local grocery store for an easy travel snack on an airplane.

Another fun option for hard boiled eggs is from a brand called Perfectly Peckish which sells hard boiled eggs in packs with a fun crunchy dip. Their selection includes:

• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & EVERYTHING Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & FRIED RICE Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCHEROS Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & SALT & PEPITAS Dip
• PECKISH Snackable Eggs & RANCH Dip

Check out their store locator to find a store that sells these near you .

Crackers and/or Bread

I personally can’t have cheese and cured/deli meat without crackers or bread! These are easy to transport and can be stored at various temperatures which make them a great addition to your carry-on bag for an easy snack pairing (and crunch)!

I love fruit for an easy snack that travels well. The fruit that travels the best are apples, bananas, oranges, kiwi, and grapes. I like these fruits because they have their own “skin” which can serve as its own carrying case so that they don’t get squashed (thanks mother nature!).

For oranges you can even pre-slice these and add them to a travel container or baggie to eat right out of the peel (or peel them later). And for kiwi I like slicing these in half and using a spoon to scoop out the insides for easy eating. If you have never tried Golden Kiwi its a real treat (they taste like a cross between a mango and a strawberry)!

Putting It Together

Combining these items also creates a nice balance for traveling to ensure you have enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates for fuel while on the go. You can also pair the meats, cheese, and crackers or bread and make a makeshift sandwich in a pinch (great easy travel snack idea!). You can also grab some pre-made snack boxes for a perishable option to take through security.

Non-Perishable Travel Snacks

My favorite non-perishable easy travel snack list is a bit longer. I group these by foods I might eat on the plane or at my final destination as I get hungry or peckish.

I eat oatmeal almost daily when I’m home for breakfast so it’s an item I always travel with especially internationally since it’s not something that all countries will provide for breakfast. It’s also a really nice snack on a plane since you just need water to make it. You can use one of the collapsible bowls or cups I mentioned above as the vessel to make these in or any disposable cup at the airport. I typically use the McCann Irish Oatmeal brand because it’s very hearty as a travel snack or the Unsweetened Individual Oatmeal packets from Trader Joe’s .

Bringing nuts on a flight can be controversial so be sure to read your airline’s individual rules regarding what is allowed. I like going for the individually portioned nuts that are completely sealed in case I can’t eat them on a particular flight due to restrictions or nut allergies. If that’s the case I can always have them as a snack at my final destination.

My favorite nut options for an easy travel snack include: 

• Macadamia Nuts
• Trail Mix (for something different)

Crunchy Snacks

Personally I’m a big fan of crunchy snacks in general but definitely when I travel. I think it’s nice to have a variety of items on hand. For this category I pack:

I usually air pop popcorn and bring it in my reusable silicon bag for trips. Did you know that you can air pop popcorn in a brown paper bag in the microwave? I also like these individually wrapped White Cheddar Popcorn bags from Smartfood .

Peanut Butter Crackers

I also like bringing Peanut Butter Crackers as easy travel snacks for my final destination. These have saved me many times while traveling to have something to tide me over until my next meal.

There’s something nostalgic about Chex Mix that just makes it a travel staple! I use to have these all the time as a kid on trips. I usually will grab the individual baggies for my carry-on bag.

I also always grab Cheez-Its for a fun crunchy cheesy snack.

Moon Cheese

These are a newer to me product. I saw them once at Starbucks and then purchased them last year from Target and I’m a fan! These are little cheese balls that come in different flavors. If you like cheese and something with a crunch you’ll like these little cheese balls as a snack.

Anytime I think of pretzels I think of that Seinfeld episode “these pretzels are making me thirsty” but they still make for a great easy travel snack!

Veggie Straws

Veggie straws are the perfect easy travel snack to take on the go! They are both crunchy and salty which you is always needed on the road.

Marinated Vegetables

This might be an odder pick but eating vegetables on the go is hard so I love this option. POSHI Vegetable Snacks offers a marinated steamed portable snack option. If you like pickled vegetables you will like these! Plus you can add a little fiber to you day while in transit.

Snack Olives

If you’ve never had olives while on an airplane you are missing out! Something about eating olives at 42,000 feet cruising in the air is a totally different experience. I like buying these Olives to Go from the grocery store and Trader Joe’s also sells individually packed Olive packs which are so yummy. I was inspired to add Olives to my easy travel snack list after having the Mediterranean Travel Snack box on a United Flight which has a great mix of olives, bruschetta, hummus, and chocolate almonds as a great snack mix.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a really fun easy travel snack! My favorite picks are dried apples and mangoes. They make such a sweet treat and they are also crunchy (or chewy).

When traveling with dips always choose brands that are shelf stable so that they can fall into the perishable category. If you go this route you should plan to consume the entire package in your trip since they will need to be refrigerated once opened.

Something Sweet

Honey stinger organic waffles.

Honey Stinger Organic Waffles are sweet yummy waffles that double as a healthy(ish) treat. These pack really easily in your carry-on or a day pack on your trip and make them one the best snacks for traveling.

Brownies & Cookies

Brownies and Cookies fall into a comfort item category for me. It’s nice to always have a sweet treat on hand but also something you are familiar with. I like the Nature’s Bakery brand Brownies and old faithful Nabisco Cookies like Oreos.

Fruit Snacks

Pink panda/snack owl.

I recently discovered a new brand called Pink Panda which offers high fiber fruit snacks. Why high fiber fruit snacks? Because fiber is such a hard micro nutrient to consume when you are traveling and I like that these snacks trade the sugar for fiber when it comes to carbohydrates in the snack. These come in two varieties: Astro Blasters and Treasure Chews. I’ve had both and think they taste yummy (you’d really never know there is no sugar in these)! And it’s only 90 calories for the entire bag.

If you are interested in trying out this new brand use our code “BREADANDBUTTERPANDA10” for 10% off if you order directly on their website . Pink Panda fruit snacks are also available on Amazon below.

Smart Sweets

I’ve been eating SmartSweets for years! They are similar to the Pink Panda brand but I’m not really sure which I like more. These are also high fiber fruit snacks and I really enjoy them for traveling. My favorites to date have been the Sour Blast Buddies and the Peach Rings.

Other Fruit Snacks

As you can tell I really love fruit snacks! My other favorites for travel and just as a general comfort item are Gushers and Fruit by the Foot. I also really like fruit leather and the “That’s It” brand is a great option for something healthy(ish) when it comes to fruit snacking.

Honey Stinger Energy Chews

Honey Stinger Energy Chews is an organic candy that’s great to chew and eat before, during, or after activity (especially when flying if your ears ring at high altitudes). It has multiple carbohydrate sources including glucose, fructose, maltose, sucrose.

I discovered this candy while on vacation in Hawaii. I think the best way to describe these are somewhere between candy and a gummy since they are chewy. I like Mango as my favorite flavor. Amazon offers a variety box if you want to check these out.

Protein Snacks

Protein is always hard for me to get in even when I’m not traveling so I always like to bring some protein snacks with me just in case. These are really great to cure hangry when you need some  stabilizing energy.

Pepperoni Sticks

These are new to me but I started eating Pepperoni sticks last year as a quick snack when I was out doing errands. That makes them perfect for an easy travel snack! The two brands I’ve liked so far are Vermont and Applegate Naturals. To me the flavors of these taste the most neutral for dried meat and come in a casing so it’s easy to eat and move on to the next thing.

Protein Bars

Protein Bars can sometimes leave an aftertaste in my opinion so there are not too many tasty ones that have a balanced calorie to protein ratio. My favorite pick so far as been Barebells Protein Bars which come in a variety of flavors and have 20 grams of protein per bar. I’ve been able to find these on Amazon and at Trader Joe’s so far. If you don’t typically like protein bars give these a try for something a bit different.

Protein Powders

I like to travel with protein powders that are individually wrapped since protein is often difficult to fit in when on the go. Most protein powder servings will have at least 18 grams of protein which is a great boost to hold you over until your next meal.

You can mix your protein powder in with some bottled water at the airport. As a great hack you can also find a bistro, Starbucks, or Dunkin Donuts in the airport and request a milk of your choice in a bigger cup to add your protein powder for an easy travel snack.

Collagen Peptides

I’m also a big fan of collagen peptides! Collagen is not a complete protein but it works well in a pinch to supplement other sources of protein for the day. It’s not completely tasteless but the flavor isn’t too strong. I prefer to dissolve these packets in water or hot coffee while traveling. They come in individual sticks which make them easy to transport. Collagen is also really great for nail and hair growth and has really helped my joints.

Granola and Fruit Bars

Something about granola bars are so nostalgic to me and I love to bring them as an easy travel snack. They travel really well on planes and are also great for in your day bag at your final destination.

I like the Nature Valley, Made Good, and Nature Bakery brands.

Peanut Butter

Again, a controversial pick for travel since usually peanuts are not allowed on all flights but I must have peanut butter with me as a basic comfort food while traveling! If I can’t have these on the plane I just eat them at my final destination. I like the JIF To Go Natural Peanut Butter cups that come individually packaged and will eat them as is, or with something I buy at the airport for some extra fat and protein. My second pick is the Justin’s Honey Peanut Butter brand which comes in a packet making it one of the best snacks for traveling.

Dehydration is real when you travel! I have two easy solutions to stay hydrated when you are on the go. These are not exactly an easy travel snack but they will come in handy while on the go.

I recently started using GoHydrate this spring as a way to stop my leg muscles from cramping and get my water levels up. GoHydrate is a water enhancer which makes it a great option if you are not particularly a fan of drinking water. I started thinking that this would also be excellent for travel due to the individual packets which make them great for on-the-go. GoHydrate provides almost instant hydration by delivering 5 electrolytes immediately to your body. Those electrolytes are: calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorous, and potassium.

This water enhancer also provides 40%+ of the recommended daily Vitamin D dose that most of of are deficient in due to sitting inside so often. To use GoHydrate just pour the pre-packaged stick into 20-24oz of water and drink. If you’d like to order GoHydrate I suggest ordering their mixed 10 stick sample box or their 30 stick sample box to see which flavor you like before stocking up on their 30 box sets of one flavor. My favorite flavors so far have been Lemon Citrus , Kiwi Strawberry , and Fruit Punch if you need a flavor recommendation.

True Honey Tea

We found this brand True Honey Tea at a farmers market last year and its been our favorite tea! Based in Virginia these are tea bags that have honey granules already in the tea. We really like the Earl Gray (add some half and half to make a London Fog) and also the Peppermint tea for a really great non perishable travel snack.

My next favorite drink mixer to travel with is from Cusa Tea . This brand was recommended to me by a friend who uses them while hiking. The best part is you don’t have to walk around with a wet tea bag once you prepare your tea. The flavors Cusa Teas has are unreal. I started with their Iced or Hot Variety Pack and the flavors are so delicious, truly premium tea with no sugar or artificial ingredients. I’ve tried this both in iced and hot tea and they work great. You can use these just by ordering hot water while on at the airport, on the plane, or at your final travel destination. 

If iced tea is more your style I’ve used them in even room temperature water (though cold water is better) and they dissolve no problem with no grainy stuff at the bottom. They are not sweetened so if you like sweet tea I suggest adding a sugar packet or something like Truvia to lightly sweeten the drink. My favorite flavors so far have been Blueberry Chrysanthemum and Hibiscus Rose . I recommend starting with the variety pack so that you can figure out which flavor you like before committing to an entire pack.

I typically buy a large water bottle once I get through security to keep with me in the airport and on the plane. If you don’t like buying water I suggest traveling with a stainless steel water bottle that you can fill up at the airport and throughout your trip. Our favorite travel options include Swell , Iron Flask, Yeti, and Stanley water bottles as great options that close.

Travel Water Bottles

S’well Stainless Steel Traveler

This S’well Stainless Steel Traveler is 20 Fl Oz and is Triple-Layered Vacuum-Insulated to keep Coffee, Tea and Drinks Cold for 36 Hours and Hot for 15 Hours.

Stanley IceFlow Tumbler

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler with Straw is a Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for Travel, the Office or a road trip. Its a reusable cup with a straw Leakproof Flip. The Stanley IceFlow will keep your drink cold for 12 Hours or Iced for 2 Days. This comes in various colors!

YETI Rambler Bottle

The YETI Rambler Water Bottle holds 26 oz of liquid and is vacuum insulated with a Chug Cap.

Which Easy Travel Snacks Are Your Favorites?

What easy travel snacks do you like to bring on your trips ? Did I miss any easy to pack snacks that you would recommend? Keep these travel snacks in mind for your next trip to beat hangry.

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This post is perfect timing! We’re taking the family to Disney World in two weeks and I have “travel snacks” on my to-do list! I love the high fiber gummy options, my little one struggles while we travel, so these will be perfect! Oh, and I have both the Emerald Nut Packs and the Nature’s Bakery bars as my car snacks, they are perfect, so I never have to hit the drive-thru!

Disney World sounds so fun! Yes, any sort of extra fiber on a trip makes things so much easier for all of us. And in candy form even better. I hope you get to try them 🙂 -Monica

I often bring a small container (2-3 TBSP to 3.3 oz) of reconstituted PBfit (or other powdered peanut butter) with sugar snap peas or carrot sticks for a tasty healthy snack. Also bring small containers of the powdered peanut butter to mix with water later. Frozen grapes and frozen bean/veggie or egg and spinach wraps can be used to keep food cold and are healthy snacks when thawed.

Those are great ideas!

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You asked: What appetizers are best to bring to a party?

Do you have any suggestions for an appetizer or hors d’oeuvre to bring to a holiday party? The main thing is to avoid anything that needs to be heated or otherwise prepped at the party when the host probably has a million things to do.

This was a question that came up during our weekly live chat , where we help you level up your skills in the kitchen. Here are some appetizer recipes that travel well for your next holiday soiree.

Answered by Aaron Hutcherson

First things first: No, you don’t want to bring anything that requires much last-minute prep that requires you to take up precious space in the host’s kitchen. (I’ve thrown my fair share of holiday parties and would rather not have a guest show up with a bag of ingredients and ask for a knife and a cutting board...) Another important consideration when traveling with food is texture, particularly dishes that are best served crispy or crunchy that might get soft over time. While you can bring these items, know that they won’t be at their absolute best by the time people are eating them.

5 crowd-pleasing sour cream dips for easy entertaining

So, ideally you’d bring fully assembled dishes that are served cold or at room temperature, such as dips , charcuterie boards and breads. However, I will say that heating is typically okay with three caveats: You ask the host for permission beforehand, the dish gets heated in the oven (so it’s hands-off), and it is brought in an oven-safe container (so that you don’t have to dirty the host’s dishes).

Appetizer recipes that travel well

• Gruyere and Onion Cocktail Biscuits (above)
• Fig and Fennel Caponata
• Fromage Fort
• Maple Spiced Glazed Nuts
• John Martin Taylor’s Blue Cheese Straws
• Figs With Goat Cheese, Pistachios and Mint
• Loaded Potato Dip

For more ideas, check out these 6 easy appetizers for your New Year’s Eve party or search our Recipes archive .

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10 Easy Make-Ahead Appetizers

Melanie Fincher is a Birmingham, Alabama–based food writer who covers everything from cooking techniques to gadget reviews. She has nearly 7 years experience writing news and lifestyle content.

Make entertaining easy with these make-ahead appetizers that are perfect for any gathering. These easy appetizers require few ingredients and minimal prep work. The best part? They can be made ahead of time and served either cold or at room temperature. If you're bringing an appetizer to a potluck , you'll find many of the appetizers on this list travel well. From dipping sauces to snack mixes , here are 10 easy make-ahead appetizers that make entertaining simple.

Extra Easy Hummus

Unlike most hummus recipes which require tahini, this easy, five-ingredient recipe is tahini-free. Simply throw all the ingredients into a food processor or blender and you're good to go!

Vegetable Dill Dip

Elevate your store-bought vegetable tray with this homemade dill dip. Make it the night before and chill overnight before serving. "I have been making this dip for 50 years and there is nothing better," says reviewer B. Hamilton.

Bacon Cheddar Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are always an easy, make-ahead appetizer — this recipe takes the classic dish up a notch with bacon and cheddar cheese. "This was a good way to change up deviled eggs. The bacon added a great flavor," says reviewer Heather Pulley.

Guilt-Free Snack Mix

Looking for a party mix that's free of chocolate or salty ingredients? This simple recipe is made up of corn cereal, dried fruit, yogurt-covered raisins, and mixed nuts. Some reviewers suggest waiting to add the cereal until you're ready to serve, as it can absorb moisture from other ingredients.

Crab and Seafood Stuffed Shells

Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy seafood mixture that includes crabmeat and shrimp. Several reviewers suggest adding Old Bay seasoning for that classic coastal flavor.

Weaam's Baba Ghanouj

"Baba Ghanouj is a traditional Middle Eastern appetizer," says recipe creator Weamm Algassim. "My version of Baba Ghanouj uses pomegranate molasses instead of lemon, and crushed walnuts for texture. This can be made a day ahead. Bring to room temperature, drizzle with olive oil, and serve with pita bread."

Cranberry-Jalapeno Dip

The sweet-heat combination of cranberries and jalapeños makes for an unusual appetizer that guests will love. Refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors mingle, and serve with tortilla chips.

BBQ Snack Mix

Not only will this snack mix travel well, but it can be left out for hours at a time without going bad. Cheese-flavored crackers, pretzels, rice cereal, peanuts, barbeque seasoning, and ground paprika make up this tangy appetizer.

Macadamia Nut Pesto Hummus

Macadamia nuts and pesto bring a welcome change to standard hummus. Serve it up with pita, veggies, or chips.

Low-Fat Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip

You can throw together this last-minute appetizer in a matter of minutes. Low-fat plain Greek yogurt and ranch dressing mix are combined and chilled to make a simple veggie dipping sauce.

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Our 20 Best Make-Ahead Appetizer Recipes

Whether you're having guests over to your house or need an appetizer to take along to a potluck, there are times when you need to make an appetizer ahead of time. These recipes will allow you to serve up a delicious appetizer even if you're short on time. Classics like deviled eggs , pimiento cheese , and more have always been favorites of Southern hosts because they're delicious and can be made in advance. Many of these recipes have to be chilled overnight, which makes them the perfect appetizers for when you need a make-ahead option. Read on for our best make-ahead appetizers that'll come to the rescue on your busiest days.

Chicken-Fried Mississippi Potato Logs

Excerpted from The Global Pantry Cookbook: Transform Your Everyday Cooking with Tahini, Gochujang, Miso, and Other Irresistible Ingredients by Ann Taylor Pittman and Scott Mowbray. Workman Publishing 2023.

Colloquially known as "party potatoes" in Mississippi, you'll be the MVP of your next potluck by bringing these delicious potato logs. You can bake the potatoes a day or two in advance to make ahead.

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip

Jennifer Causey; Food Stylist: Melissa Gray; Prop Stylist: Kay Clarke

Buffalo chicken dip is a game day staple, and you can make it ahead by doing everything until dumping the ingredients in the Instant Pot a day in advance.

Deviled Crab Melts

These crunchy crostinis topped with lightly spiced crab, fresh tomatoes, and melty cheese are an unexpected but utterly delicious bite that all will enjoy. You can prepare all of the ingredients up to two days in advance for easy assembly.

Virginia Ham-And-Cheese Wafers

Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christina Dailey

These delectable wafers are like cheese straws but in cookie form – need we say more? The wafers will keep well in an airtight container for up to a week, or you can stash the dough in the freezer.

Smoky Snack Mix

Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Torie Cox; Prop Stylist: Mindi Shapiro Levine

Snack mixes are a simple classic that everyone enjoys, and they're even better when homemade. This recipe uses butter and smoky spices for a delicious twist, and the mix can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days.

Mushroom-Stuffed Phyllo Cups

For a simple yet elevated appetizers these mushroom cups are perfect to have around for guests to enjoy a quick bite. You can make the filling ahead of time and bake for just five minutes for an easy crowd pleaser.

Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp

Since this dish has to chill for at least 8 hours and preferably up to 24, it must be made ahead of time.

Black Bean and Corn Salsa

This big batch salsa is made to serve 12, but can be easily doubled for even larger crowds. Plus, we bet you won't mind having leftovers which can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Marinated Feta With Cherry Tomatoes

Toasted baguette slices serve as an ideal base for a tomato and cheese mixture that marinates overnight before serving.

Old Bay Rémoulade with Crudités and Shrimp

This remoulade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, so you can prepare it several days in advance of an event if needed.

Basic Deviled Eggs

You can prepare deviled eggs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. If you'll be transporting them, keep the filling separate and top the eggs just before serving.

Cheddar Cheese Straws

Both kids and adults will love this classic snack.

Basic Pimiento Cheese

Not only is this appetizer a Southern classic, but it also requires just a few stirs to pull together.

Texas Caviar

Although this dip is simple to pull together, we bet it'll be a bigger hit than most time-intensive appetizers.

Benedictine Spread

After it's prepared, this spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Buttery Toasted Pecans

This simple snack can be stored for up to a week and are great to have on hand for drop in guests.

Spinach-and-Vidalia Dip

Both chips and veggies are great dipping options for this spinach dip.

Orange-Basil Yogurt Dip

You can refrigerate this dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Buttermilk-Ricotta Cheese Dip

Make sure to follow the directions for this recipe and stir only when instructed for the best results.

Cheese Dreams

These cheesy bites can be stored in the freezer, just add 10 minutes to the cooking time.

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THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP FOOD LIST: 50 Scrumptious Travel Snacks

Post Summary: The definitive road trip food list with 50 snack ideas and meals to keep you happy the entire car ride. Plus, tips for what else to bring and recommendations for the best road trip coolers.

Road trips are the classic adventure that everyone needs to do at least once in their life, whether you’re traveling solo, with your best buds, or packing in the whole family. What’s the secret to a great road trip? Besides having your maps already downloaded to your phone (travel must #1), it’s to have a collection of the best road trip food at your disposal. Being prepared with good travel food will ensure you don’t:

• Kill your travel mates because you’re hangry.
• Get killed by your travel mates because they’re hangry.
• Get lured in by every gasoline stop and somehow end up with bright orange Cheetos and Slim Jims.
• Waste your travel budget dining on Subway and Wendys road trip meals.

After road tripping with a toddler for half a year around the US, we’ve figured out the ultimate road trip food list so we can enjoy the journey together feeling nourished and happy. Our list includes road trip food ideas for adults and kids as well as healthy car snacks.

After the road trip food list, we’ve included non-food items you’ll want to bring and some tips on choosing the best road trip cooler.

Need More Road Trip Tips? Check out our other articles below:

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 41 Essentials For The Road 160 Fun, Deep, and Sometimes Silly Road Trip Questions 41 Fun and Challenging Road Trip Trivia Questions 17+ Fun Things To Do On A Road Trip How To Survive A Road Trip With A Toddler 40 Must Have Items To Have In Your Camper

*This road trip food list post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products and services we genuinely think are helpful.

The Ultimate Road Trip Food List

Healthy snacks for a road trip

We’ll start with healthy snacks for the road. I don’t know about you, but when we go on road trips, we tend to fall back on fast food and junk food. In an effort to have a quasi healthy road trip we make sure to include some healthy options so we can at least feel like we’ve balanced out all our snickers bars and Wendy’s frosties. Here’s our list of the best road trip foods that won’t leave you feeling sluggish at the end of the day. We also added in a few recommendations of some of our favorite brands.

Healthy Snacks For Car Rides 1. Fruit: Bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, grapes, apples, oranges 2. Sliced veggies: carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, pickles, radishes 3. Cherry tomatoes 4. Olives (buy the pitted kinds) 5. Salsa 6. Deli sandwiches or wraps (already made from home or pre-purchased) 7. A simple charcuterie spread (summer sausage, pepperoni, sliced cheese, dried apricots, olives, crackers, etc.) 8. Popcorn 9. Yellow corn chips, blue corn chips, kale chips 10. Granola Bars and Energy Bars ( Munk Bars are our favorite! ) 11. Dried Fruit 12. Crackers (cheese crackers, saltines, whole wheat crackers, these almond crackers are my favorite!) 13. Pretzels 14. Nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews, macadamia, walnuts, pecans) 15. Trail mix 16. Tuna (Get the kind that doesn’t need to be refrigerated! It can become a snack on crackers, a sandwich, or added to a salad) 17. Coconut chips ( Dang chips are our favorite. ) 18. Dark chocolate 19. Wasabi peas 20. Fruit leather 21. Whole-grain muffins 22. Bread (pretzel rolls, pita bread) 23. Water (Preferably in a water bottle like a Hydro Flask that will keep your water cold for hours.) *The following are all still healthy snacks for a road trip but will require a cooler. Skip them if you are going sans cooler. Further down, we’ll talk about the best road trip coolers. 23. Hard-boiled eggs 24. Small yogurt containers or drinkable yogurts 25. Humus 26. Guacamole 27. Pasta salad 28. Lentil salad 29. Grocery store salad kits (Can be eaten out of the bag! Just cut the top, pour in the salad dressing, and shake it away. You can also opt to do salads in a jar) 30. Cheese

Essential Road Trip Snacks

These road trip snacks might not be the healthiest, but look…you can’t always be perfect!

Road Trip Snack List 32. Beef Jerky 33. Chips 34. Fun candy (Any kind of candy that brings you joy for your road trip. Gummy bears, reeses pieces, airheads) 35. Ranch dip to go with your healthy veggies 36. Fun drinks (Just make sure the drink is able to be resealed or small enough that you’ll drink it all quickly. My favorite road trip drink is coconut water!) 37. Cookies

Road Trip Snacks For Kids And Toddlers

While we don’t put a distinction between road trip food for the adults and road trip food for kids, here are some fun ideas you can add in addition to the travel food listed above. We found that allowing for leniency with what we let our kid snack on will mean a more fun time for everyone in the car.

Road Trip Snacks For Toddlers and Kids 38. String Cheese or Babybels 39. Peanut butter pretzels 40. Clementines 41. Squeezable applesauce 42. Squeezable nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter) 43. Graham crackers 44. Goldfish 45. Fruit snacks 46. Fruit roll ups 47. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich 48. Dry cereal 49. Nutella 50. Snap pea crisps ( I love the wasabi ones from Harvest Snaps . I can only get them online because my grocery store never has them!)

Essential Non Food Items

Now that you’ve got your travel food and made your road trip food list, let’s talk about non food items to have on your road trip packing list. We are both advocates for minimal waste living so we do advise using reusable items like real utensils, glass containers, and reusable straws rather than single-use items. I know it can feel like a nuisance, but once you get used to doing it, it’s easy to integrate it into your habits. We’ve provided links to different products, so you can check out some good options.

-Trash bags (old shopping bags work well) – Stackable glass or plastic containers (While glass may feel like a hazard, I find that most of them are built for endurance and would require some extreme throwing around to actually break. Either way, bringing containers rather than an entire bag of snacks is a great space saver.) -Reusable straws (we like this multipack option here ) -Bento boxes (another option is to make individual bento boxes with everyone’s preferred snacks put in. It’s essentially a healthier version of a Lunchable. Great option if you’re traveling with kids.) Check out these cute bento boxes here . -Utensils -Plates -Paper towels -Hand sanitizer -Ziplock bags -Wipes -Cups if you want to share drinks -Ice packs for the cooler (We prefer to use reusable ice packs like these , but frozen water bottles or ice cubes in a ziplock back will do the job as well.) -Reusable grocery bag to carry your non-perishable stuff -Plastic tub (If you’re going on a long road trip and will have lots of snacks, a good option is to pack all your non-perishable items in a tub like this .) -Cooler

Related : A Comprehensive Guide To the Best Toddler Carriers For Traveling

Best Road Trip Coolers

If you’re going on a long road trip, you’ll definitely want to bring a cooler so you can have more options for the journey. Things to consider when deciding what kind of road trip cooler to bring.

• How much space will you have in your car?
• How many days will you be driving and subsequently how much food will you need?
• Cost of the cooler
• If you road trip or camp a lot and will use a cooler several times a year.

Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

Our choice for the best road trip cooler is the Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler . It’s a mid-sized cooler that can fit a bottle of wine standing upright. We like its lightweight design and that its compact size can fit on the ground behind the passenger seat.

It has a mid-range price point, so if you are wanting something more economical, you’ll probably want our next pick.

Igloo MaxCold Cooler

If all you need is a no-frills cooler to keep your food cold, the Igloo Maxcold Cooler is a great option. The thin design also makes it a great choice for someone wanting to save room in the car.

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze

If you like a soft cooler, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze consistently offers the best bang for your buck.

Yeti Tundra 45

Lastly, if you are wanting a high-end cooler that will be great for camping and can take the wear and tear of consistent use, the Yeti Tundra 45 is your best bet. Yeti is the reigning champion of coolers and you can’t go wrong with anything you purchase from them.

Before you head out on your epic road trip, we suggest packing the night before. Alleviating as much stress as possible on the day you leave, especially when you’re doing a road trip with a toddler , is key to enjoying the road trip journey. We find that the night before, it’s best to:

• Wash, cut, and peel all vegetables and fruit.
• Pack up all non perishable food and supplies.
• Prepare any road trip sandwiches you plan to eat.

Lastly, don’t forget to make sure all your tasty road trip snacks are within reaching distance in the car.

We hope you enjoyed our complete road trip food list. Happy road tripping!

** For more road trip inspiration follow us on Instagram . We travel… a lot.

NEED SOME TRAVEL INSPIRATION? A Complete Guide To A Utah National Parks Road Trip How To Plan A Cross Country Road Trip + Fun Routes To Take 10 National Parks To Visit In The East 50 Family Bucket List Experiences In The US

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Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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13 Make-Ahead Cold Appetizer Recipes for the Busy Host

You know what we love about cold appetizers? No last-minute baking, sautéing, simmering, or frying. These recipes can be prepared ahead of time, so you can enjoy your party sans stress.

Whether you're a Martha-level host or new to entertaining, you'll want to add some of these cold appetizer recipes to your list of party must-makes. Ultimately, having dishes made before a gathering is like having money in the bank—you'll be comfortable knowing that your menu is handled, no heat necessary.

Best of all, these light bites are total crowd-pleasers that just might persuade you to prep all your appetizers ahead , or at least the majority (so you have time to focus on that special last-minute dish ). Whatever your approach, you can rely on these trusty cold appetizer recipes to delight your loved ones time and again.

Blue-Cheese Spread

Our Blue-Cheese Spread is quick and easy, but fancy, too, and comes together with just two ingredients: cream cheese and a creamy blue cheese, such as Roquefort. They're whizzed together in the food processor and seasoned to taste. Make it ahead and stash the spread in the refrigerator until party time.

Classic Deviled Eggs

Go classic with your deviled eggs or try something different like Tomato-Pimenton Deviled Eggs . Ultimately, you can't go wrong, since these bites are a wonderful make-ahead cold appetizer—and a crowd-pleaser to boot.

Chilled Melon, Cucumber, and Mint Soup

Cucumber and honeydew melon provide vitamin C-packed flavor to this no-cook, chilled soup that's made in the blender.

Quick Shrimp Relish Tray

The genius of this appetizer is that it combines the crowd-pleasing aspects of shrimp cocktail with the ease of a relish tray. All you have to do is put the platter together and let guests help themselves to their ideal bites. It's less work for you—and more fun for them.

As for the elements to make ahead? Prep the shrimp and refrigerate; also, make the crostini in advance, but store them in an airtight container outside of the fridge.

Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip

This delectable vegan dip is best made a day ahead to allow the rich smoky flavors to blend.

Chicken-Liver Mousse with Raspberry Jelly

Exquisite and easy, the rich combination of chicken livers and butter is beautifully complemented by sweet-tart raspberry jelly.

Beet and Tahini Dip

This bright and satisfying vegan dip can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to three days, so you can focus on day-of activities, such as roasting and baking, as your guests graze.

Guacamole Hummus

Two favorite party dips unite in this creamy recipe. Three cups of cilantro leaves give the dip its vivid green color.

Juniper-and-Gin Gravlax

For a spectacular make-ahead cold appetizer, nothing beats a side of cured salmon. And while it looks impressive, this Swedish-inspired dish is actually easy to make. Besides the quality salmon, the main ingredient is time: You slather the fish with a salty-sweet spice mix and let it hang out in the refrigerator for three days.

8-Layer Dip

Whether it's a backyard barbecue, game day, or birthday party, you can't go wrong with this layered taco dip. Refried beans, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, avocado, scallions, canned green chiles, sour cream, and shredded lettuce make up the enticing layers.

Pan-Roasted Marinated Mushrooms

They take about 15 minutes to make and need at least an hour to sit before serving, but these marinated mushrooms taste even better when made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Serve this easy cold appetizer with buttery crackers and a selection of cheeses.

Grilled-Vegetable Agrodolce

Grill the eggplants and squashes for this agrodolce, then toss them with a sweet-and-sour marinade full of plump raisins and briny capers. They can be prepped the day before and refrigerated. All that's left to do is toast some crusty Italian bread before serving—and raise a glass.

Mixed Olive Tapenade

Spoon it onto pita bread, pile it on slices of fresh mozzarella, or just let guests dig in with a toothpick. This blend of mixed olives, anchovies, and capers is the salty, savory make-ahead bite that we just can't get enough of.

40 Christmas Appetizers That Travel Well

Are you looking for festive appetizers to bring to your next holiday gathering? Look no further, we’ve got the scoop on Christmas appetizers that travel well!

These make-ahead Christmas appetizers not only taste delicious, but they also travel well.

Holiday Appetizers

These finger foods and delicious Christmas appetizers can be made ahead of the day of your party.

All the ingredients can be found in grocery stores, and you can use plastic wrap for cold appetizers.

1. Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

Wrap in store-bought puff pastry for easy transport and bake at the destination for a warm, gooey treat. Use a baking sheet to transport.

This perfect appetizer pairs well with crackers or sliced baguettes.

2. Cranberry, Goat Cheese, and Pecan Crostini

Assemble on baguette slices before traveling for a flavorful mix of sweet and savory. This goat cheese appetizer is sure to be a hit.

3. Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Make ahead, freeze, and then thaw before cooking for an easy recipe that will impress your guests. Top off with hot sauce or parmesan cheese for added flavor.

4. Pinwheels

These fun appetizers can be made with a variety of fillings, such as ham and cheese, ranch and chicken, or even just pesto and cheese.

Use plastic wrap to keep them tightly rolled before traveling.

A good reason to make them ahead of time is to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Pigs in a Blanket

To make this simple recipe even easier to travel with, use pre-made crescent roll dough and cocktail sausages. Serve with a side of honey mustard for dipping.

Upgrade the classic party appetizer by serving it with a homemade honey mustard dip.

6. Christmas Tree Veggie Platter

Arrange your favorite crunchy vegetables in the shape of a Christmas tree for a healthy and festive option.

It’s the best time of year and this veggie platter is the perfect addition to your holiday spread.

7. Holiday Cheese Ball

Mix cream cheese, cheddar, green onions, pecans, and cranberries for the ultimate Christmas party appetizer spread on crackers or a sliced baguette.

This delicious appetizer can also be made ahead of time and frozen for later use.

8. Pear and Gorgonzola Crostini

Top crispy bread with sliced pears, gorgonzola cheese, and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory Christmas appetizer.

You can add more big flavors like sesame seeds or thinly sliced prosciutto.

9. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Fill your spinach dip with artichoke hearts and serve with slices of baguette or crackers for dipping. Hot dips are always a crowd favorite.

10. Holiday Cheese Board

Make your cheese board festive by including Christmas-colored fruits like pomegranates and red grapes, as well as holiday-flavored crackers or jams.

The good things about a cheese board are that you can customize it to fit your own taste and it’s easy to transport.

11. Blue Cheese and Fig Jam Flatbread

Spread fig jam on store-bought flatbread and top with blue cheese for a simple Christmas appetizer that packs a flavor punch.

Add a single layer of thinly sliced prosciutto for extra savoriness.

12. Slow Cooker Meatballs

Make a big batch of meatballs in your slow cooker and keep warm for easy transport to your Christmas or office party.

Your taste buds will thank you for these delicious, flavorful meatballs. Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

13. French Onion Dip

Mix sour cream, cream cheese, and dried onion soup mix for a party twist on the classic dip.

Serve with vegetables or potato chips for dipping for the perfect holiday party appetizer.

The best part? This dip can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

14. Antipasto Skewers

Skewer cherry tomatoes, salami, mozzarella balls, olives, artichoke hearts, and basil for an easy Christmas appetizer that can be made ahead of time and transported easily.

Your guest list is sure to love this easy appetizer.

15. Cheddar Cheese Sausage Balls

Mix cheddar cheese, sausage, black pepper, and Bisquick for a twist on the classic party appetizer.

You can serve this crowd-pleasing appetizer with dijon mustard , Worcestershire sauce, or honey mustard for dipping.

16. Red Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Dip

Mix cream cheese and red pepper jelly for a sweet and savory dip. Serve with crackers or a sliced baguette.

The delicious flavor combination will be a hit at any of your holiday parties.

17. Coconut Shrimp with Apricot Dipping Sauce

Make these shrimp ahead of time and transport them in a cooler for a tasty appetizer.

A great way to serve is with a homemade apricot dipping sauce for an added touch of holiday flavor.

18. Loaded Sweet Potato Bites

Top cooked, sliced sweet potatoes with crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a Christmas party appetizer that is sure to disappear quickly.

A great way to add some variety to traditional potato appetizers, you can also substitute brown sugar or pecans for added sweetness.

19. Crock Pot Green Chile and Cream Cheese Dip

Mix cream cheese, diced green chiles, and taco seasoning for a party twist on the classic dip. This creamy dip can be served with tortilla chips.

A big part of the appeal of this appetizer is its simplicity – just mix the ingredients and let them simmer in a crock pot for easy transport to your holiday party.

20. Green Olives Stuffed with Almonds and Blue Cheese

Stuff green olives with almonds and blue cheese for a Christmas party appetizer that is easy to transport and will impress your guests.

To top off this appetizer serve it on a festive holiday platter.

21. Veggie Dip Wreath

Arrange your favorite veggies on a platter in the shape of a Christmas wreath. For easy serving, include a bowl of your favorite dip in the center.

This sweet dip idea is sure to be a hit at any holiday party.

22. Bacon Wrapped Dates

Wrap dates with bacon and bake for an easy, tasty Christmas party appetizer. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or honey for added flavor.

These dates can be cooled at room temperature and then transported to your holiday party or office christmas gathering.

23. Caramelized Onions and Peppers Crostini

Top sliced baguette with caramelized onions and peppers for a Christmas party twist on the classic crostini appetizer.

You can add old bay seasoning or garlic powder for added flavor.

24. Cherry Tomatoes and Bocconcini Skewers

Skewer cherry tomatoes and bocconcini (mini mozzarella balls) for a party appetizer that is easy to make ahead of time and transport.

Serve with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or pesto.

25. Holiday Fruit Tray

Arrange christmas-colored fruits like strawberries, red grapes, and pomegranates on a platter for a festive Christmas party appetizer.

Add a yogurt dip or chocolate dipping sauce to make this crowd pleaser even better at your next holiday or game day party.

26. Cheese Dips

Mix cream cheese with your favorite Christmas flavors for easy party dips. Try cranberry and walnut dip or fig and blue cheese dip.

Savory dips with simple ingredients like green onion and bacon or sun-dried tomatoes also make for great Christmas party appetizers.

27. Holiday Hummus

Mix store-bought hummus with Christmas flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, or roasted red peppers for a festive appetizer.

Add small plates for serving and include pita bread or vegetables for dipping. Add a touch of lemon juice or garlic flakes for added flavor before serving.

You can also use a food processor to mix in holiday flavors for homemade hummus.

29. Mini-Stuffed Peppers

Mix cream cheese, garlic, and herbs for a christmas party twist on the classic stuffed pepper appetizer.

Place mixture into mini bell peppers for easy transportation and serving.

30. Buffalo Chicken Bites

Mix cooked, shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for one of your favorite appetizers.

You can serve with celery sticks or tortilla chips for dipping.

31. Christmas Sausage Dip

Mix cream cheese, cooked sausage, and christmas-colored bell peppers for a festive Christmas dinner appetizer. Add crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.

32. Christmas Wraps

Wrap christmas-colored vegetables like red bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers with deli meat for a festive christmas party appetizer.

Roll up with cream cheese and herbs inside for added flavor.

33. Deviled Eggs

Mix mashed egg yolks with Christmas flavors like smoked salmon or bacon for a festive party twist on the classic deviled eggs appetizer.

Top with chives or caviar for added garnish. Make-ahead appetizers like this one are great for Christmas parties that require transportation.

34. Lemon Zest Shrimp

Marinate shrimp in olive oil, lemon zest, and minced garlic for a twist on the classic shrimp appetizer. Grill or bake for an easy, tasty Christmas party appetizer this holiday season.

Add lime juice and cilantro for added flavor.

35. Pickle in a Blanket

Wrap thinly sliced ham or deli meat around dill pickles and secure with a toothpick for easy appetizers. Serve with mustard or ranch dip for added flavor.

Homemade ranch dip can be mixed with sour cream and ranch mix. This go-to recipe is sure to please a crowd.

36. Hors d’Oevuvres

Use a base of bread with a spread and garnish. Try cream cheese with cranberry and walnuts or fig and blue cheese.

Or use a Christmas-colored spread like red pepper jelly or sun-dried tomato pesto. Garnish with herbs or nuts for added flavor and decoration.

37. Jalapeno Popper Bites

Mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapenos. For the very best Christmas appetizer, wrap mixture in bacon and bake until crispy.

38. Cayenne Pepper Popcorn

Mix popcorn with melted butter, cayenne pepper, and parmesan cheese for a twist on the classic snack. Serve in Christmas themed bowls or bags for added festivity.

39. Taco Dip

Mix cream cheese, salsa, and taco seasoning. Christmas appetizer recipes like this take no time to make and can be easily transported.

40. Christmas Sushi

Mix cooked sushi rice with christmas-colored vegetables like red bell peppers and avocado, then roll into nori sheets.

For last minute appetizers, use store-bought sushi rolls and cut into christmas tree shapes with a cookie cutter. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi for dipping.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are plenty of options for Christmas appetizers that travel well.

From cheese dips to christmas wraps and even christmas sushi, your party guests will be impressed with these festive and tasty treats.

The last thing you want to worry about at a holiday party is making appetizers, so make it easy on yourself with this tasty idea.

Serve with a nice Christmas dinner and Christmas desserts like a key lime pie dip.

Happy holidays!

Get the scoop on more like this:

• 90 Honey Baked Ham Christmas Sides
• The Viral Tiktok Baked by Melissa Green Goddess Salad Recipe
• Crunchy California Sushi Roll Recipe
• The Best Thanksgiving Apple Pie Recipe

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I think you might want to look up what “travels well” means…

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37 Easy Appetizers for Less Stressing, More Snacking

By Antara Sinha and The Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors

You don’t want hangry dinner party guests milling about while you’re putting the finishing touches on a meal. These easy appetizer recipes—most can be prepared in 15 minutes or less—are the ticket to stress-free hosting. (“Alexa, play ‘Smooth Operator’ by Sade.”) You want to feed your people something , just not finicky party food that takes away from the main event. These snacks have gotta be delicious. They've gotta be pretty. They've gotta be easy. So from crowd-pleasing dip recipes to finger foods that rely on store-bought shortcuts, let these easy appetizers make your next party, game day , or holiday a breeze.

Roasted Cherry Tomato Caprese

This easy appetizer is as simple as one, two, three: Roast cherry tomatoes with thyme and garlic, arrange them on a platter with torn pieces of mozzarella, and serve the dish with bread on the side.

Classic Pigs in a Blanket

Now these are the kinds of roll-ups we can get behind: smoked cocktail sausages wrapped in the dough from a can of refrigerated crescent buns and baked until golden brown.

Figs With Bacon and Chile

Who knew that bacon and figs, with a bit of help from maple syrup and red wine vinegar, could make such an impressive but simple appetizer? Well, now you do.

French Onion Dip

This one’s a slow cooker. We’re not including it not because of anything having to do with quickness; while there’s no shortcut when it comes to caramelizing the onions , there are only two steps total to this easy appetizer recipe.

Boquerones With Green Olives and Orange

Fancy anchovies with olive oil, garlic, sherry vinegar, and orange zest is a well-trod last-minute entertaining move—and for good reason. Simply serve the mixture with a crusty baguette.

BA’s Best Shrimp Cocktail

Skip making your own cocktail sauce; do yourself a favor and buy it . Then, all you have to worry about is perfectly poaching the shrimp.

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Be honest: If you had to choose between a cheese board and spinach artichoke dip, you’d pick the dip, right? We sure would if it meant this shallot-infused marriage of Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.

The Only Salsa You Need

Any recipe that relies on a food processor for its main cooking method—just fill and pulse—is an easy one, in our minds. Serve this Platonic-ideal salsa as an appetizer today; if there are leftovers, thats the only sign you need to make tacos or quesadillas for yourself tomorrow.

Simple Does It Deviled Eggs

A coarsely mashed filling, crunchy with celery, scallions, and pickle relish, is the key to the best deviled eggs. And there’s no need for a piping bag; just use a couple of forks or spoons.

Marinated Mozzarella and Peppadew Peppers

If you told us that just looking at this bowl of miniature mozzarella balls and cheery Peppadew peppers didn’t make you smile, we wouldn’t believe you.

Za’atar Fire Crackers

This appetizer recipe is a twist on fire crackers, a classic in the South. Traditionally made with garlic and onion powders, red pepper flakes, and ranch dressing mix, za’atar gets the spotlight in this version.

Spinach-Yogurt Dip With Sizzled Mint

This dip recipe, a version of Persian borani esfanaaj, uses spinach, but it can also be made with cooked beets or roasted eggplant. Serve it with pita chips for a quick appetizer, but bookmark it as a sauce to serve the next time you make lamb meatballs.

Tomato Salad With Jalapeño Ranch

Make this punchy homemade ranch dressing (fresh herbs, chile, MSG) in bulk and keep a batch on hand to layer under tomatoes for a summer-friendly side dish, drizzle over grilled meat skewers, or slather onto roasted veggies.

Herbed Baked Brie

No time for queso ? Well, the nineties are back, and a show-stopping wheel of baked brie is here to do the easy appetizer job for you. Skip the cranberry mostarda and add a dollop of whatever store-bought jam looks good to you.

Old Bay Chips With Lemon Mayo

Powdered sugar may seem like an odd ingredient for a savory appetizer recipe, but adding a little helps balance the saltiness of the Old Bay seasoning .

Rosemary-Sizzled Salami, Dates, and Pecans

This warm mix throws everyone’s favorite parts of a charcuterie plate into a hot pan, where they mingle and become the very best versions of themselves.

Creamy Shrimp on Crackers

Tangy cream cheese and sour cream play up shrimp’s natural sweetness in this simple appetizer. Hot tip: Poach your shrimp and make your dressing in advance so you can enjoy the party too.

Marinated Olives and Feta

“I’ve never left a review for a recipe before but this was so good I had to come here to implore everyone reading to make this. Bonus: It’s a quick, easy, inexpensive dish to bring to a potluck.” Well, jeez, thanks, Rachael, in the comments [blushing].

Buffalo Wing Popcorn

Frank’s Red Hot sauce , let us count the ways... This sweet-and-spicy caramel corn packs the flavor of hot chicken wings into popcorn by leaning on one of our favorite hot sauces of all time.

Crispy Cheese Twists

Forget crescent rolls. Pinwheels are too much work. Store-bought puff pastry is the true MVP of party appetizers, and it has no higher calling than these crispy, buttery cheese straws.

Everything Spice–Coated Cheddar Cheese Ball

You’ll soon learn that we’re geeks for a cheese ball. Here, pancetta (or prosciutto), cream cheese, cheddar, and plenty of garlic come together for a real stunner.

BA's Best Guacamole

You’ll never hear us turn down freshly made guacamole with crispy, crunchy tortilla chips . This easy guacamole recipe is a classic best made in a Mexican mortar and pestle called a molcajete , but a bowl and a potato masher or fork also work fine.

Lemon-Pepper Salami Bites

You could make meatball sliders . You could also do a semi-homemade last-minute thing, warming up leftover BBQ pulled pork and cobbling together some kind of Texas-influenced crostini. But you should go the easier route: Put salami, Marcona almonds, olive oil, and lemon zest in a bowl—that’s it! (But don’t get us wrong, we’d never say no to a slider.)

Classic Hummus

This is a no-fail hummus recipe, one of our favorite quick appetizers. Whiz canned chickpeas in a food processor with the good stuff: tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Serve with pita chips, sweet potato chips, or sliced veggies to keep it gluten-free. Boom.

Endive Cups With Blue Cheese, Celery, and Croutons

Eating salad is much easier when the greens act as boats for cheese and fried bread. If you’re not a blue cheese person, any firm, flavorful cheese—think Parmesan or aged cheddar—would be yummy here, too.

Pistachio-Sesame Cheese Ball

Boursin cheese is a great time-saving move—it’s already well-seasoned and packed with flavor. All you need to worry about is zhuzhing the exterior; pistachio and sesame seeds add plenty of nuttiness and texture.

Spicy Cheddar Cheese Spread

This cheesy dip is made for our Pretzel Bites , but you can also serve it as a cheese dip with store-bought pretzels, baked lil’ smokies sausages, your favorite kind of crackers, or a platter of crudités.

Pork Nachos With Red Cabbage and Wonton Chips

This is the most complicated appetizer recipe on this list, and its assembly still just involves layering components and baking them on a sheet tray. Fresh cabbage, scallions, and cilantro brighten the dish.

Air Fryer Chile-Honey-Glazed Fries

One of our readers who shall not be named (look at the comments) thinks that tater tots aren’t suitable for adults. We’re all entitled to our opinions, but for what it’s worth, this recipe also works with frozen fries .

Marinated Manchego

The only thing more crowd-pleasing than cheese is marinated cheese. P.S. If Manchego isn’t your thing, go for any semi-firm cheese like white cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.

Tangy Tomato-Chile Popcorn

Once you have tangy tomato powder —made from dehydrated and pulverized tomatoes—in your arsenal, you’ll never run out of ways to use it. One of them should definitely be this umami-forward popcorn seasoning.

Marinated Goat Cheese With Herbs and Spices

If it’s never occurred to you that you can take your goat cheese and pour warm, spice-infused olive oil and garlic on top of it, well then let us introduce you to game-changing marination method.

We won’t hold you back from cooking, shelling, and chopping a boatload of clams, but we do think you came here because you hoped for a delicious clam dip that comes together in 15 minutes. Well, you found it.

Cacio e Pepe Chips

Store-bought potato chips, grated Pecorino cheese, and coarsely ground black pepper are the only ingredients you need to bring this simple appetizer idea—really, the simplest—to life.

Mortadella Moments

We apologize to the antipasto classicists, but this bite-size, fatty, pickle-y delight might have just taken bruschetta’s place in our list of go-to crostini -esque appetizers.

Dairy-Free Trout Dip

It certainly doesn’t look dairy-free, nor does its creamy texture feel dairy-free, but this dip is, in fact, completely devoid of dairy products. The secret? Almonds, water, and a high-powered blender.

Anchovy and Sardine Toasts With Chile Butter

This easy appetizer recipe was developed for all the oily fish lovers—and hey, that love will serve you. Both umami-rich anchovies and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

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51 Appetizer Recipes That’ll Make You Want to Snack All Day

By The Editors of Epicurious

Appetizer recipes are essential for entertaining, but even in these days without gatherings indoors, sometimes you just feel snack-y. Whether you’re watching football or just spending the day doing puzzles in your pajamas, these hors d’oeuvres and appetizers are so good that eating an actual dinner afterward just might not feel necessary. Below, you’ll find our best chicken wings, creamy dips, crunchy snack mix , and more, including standout finger food like deviled eggs, pigs in blankets, and clams casino.

Figs-in-a-Blanket With Goat Cheese

A vegetarian take on one of our favorite classic appetizer recipes, these honey-glazed figs are baked in puff pastry with creamy, tangy goat cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Boneless Buffalo Chicken "Wings"

Let's be honest: No one is into Buffalo chicken wings for the bones. So skip the hassle and make spicy fried chicken breast strips instead. Pair them with a tangy blue cheese dip and crunchy celery sticks.

Smoked Trout Croquettes

An elegant pre-dinner snack that's crunchy, savory, creamy, and luscious. They're as great with pilsner as they are with Champagne.

Jalapeño Poppers With Smoked Gouda

Don't feel like frying? You can still make jalapeño poppers. This grilled version is filled with a combination of cream cheese and savory smoked Gouda.

Pigs-in-a-Blanket With Sauerkraut and Mustard

Pack your pigs with extra flavor by adding punchy mustard and tangy sauerkraut inside the puff pastry .

Tonnato Eggs

Looking to make a meal out of appetizers? Don't skip these luscious deviled eggs, which are crowned with a bright and briny tonnato-inspired filling and crispy capers.

Classic Spinach-Artichoke Dip With Mozzarella and Parmesan

The ultimate version of spinach-artichoke dip brings together stretchy mozzarella, tangy cream cheese, and nutty Parmesan.

This crispy-crunchy, spicy, sweet-and-savory snack mix is almost as green as the turf on a football field, so it's perfect for munching while you watch the game.

Creamy Queso With Chorizo

Yes, you need Velveeta to make great queso. You just can't beat it on texture. This version gets a savory, smoky boost from fresh chorizo and chipotle powder.

Kombu Celery

We adore this crunchy snack, which is seasoned with toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and furikake.

Nothing's better than freshly-fried lumpia. Except for lumpia that you were smart enough to wrap in advance so that the frying was no trouble at all.

Pickled Shrimp

Pickled shrimp are bright and refreshing, perfect as hors d'oeuvres or a snacky dinner. Make them a day in advance so you're ready to serve them without any effort.

Creamy Pinto Bean Dip

This is one of our favorite hearty dip recipes . It's made with pinto beans, red bell pepper, garlic, red wine vinegar, and chili powder and blended in a food processor.

Pecan Brie Brûlée

Cheese and crackers: Basic. Brûléed cheese on toast with chile-pecan paste? Truly elegant. Keep this appetizer recipe in your back pocket for whenever you're feeling fancy.

Crunchy Stuffed Cremini Mushrooms

This vegan appetizer is packed with savory flavor, thanks to the addition of umami-packed nutritional yeast.

Baked Tomatoes, Peppers, and Goat Cheese with Crisped Toasts

Dip slices of baguette into a pan of juicy baked cherry tomatoes and creamy goat cheese. Then repeat.

3-Ingredient Smoked Mozzarella Sticks

What could make us love mozzarella sticks more? Making them even easier to prepare. Just wrap logs of smoked mozzarella in egg roll wrappers, then fry until golden brown.

Crispy Turmeric-and-Pepper-Spiced Chicken Wings

Here's a must-know chicken wing trick: Start the wings in a cold oven, which allows the fat to render slowly for extra-crispy skin.

Smoky Carrot Dip

Have your dip and eat your vegetables, too. Here, sweet roasted carrots are blended with chickpeas, toasted almonds, lemon juice, garlic, and smoked paprika—it’s the perfect companion to seeded crackers or good bread .

Hot and Crunchy Avocado Fries

Creamy avocado in a crispy panko shell. Feel free to serve alongside any yogurt-based dip , or skip it. These bad boys don't need embellishment.

Labne Deviled Eggs with Paprika and Ginger

The egg white part of deviled eggs is often ignored, but here it gets a vibrant coating of ginger, paprika, mustard seed, pepper, and ajowan.

Shabzi Pakora

For these fritters, you'll use a lot of seasoned fresh vegetables, which are mixed together with ground rice and chickpea flour to create a very light batter. The recipe calls for onions, cabbage, potato and carrot, but you can use whatever combination of vegetables you've got sitting in the fridge.

Halloumi Puff Pastry Twists

You don't need a party to enjoy these savory, cheesy snacks. You'll scatter grated halloumi and Pecorino over the storebought puff pastry, fold in half, cut into strips, then twist, twist, twist.

Vegetarian Buffalo “Meatballs” With Blue Cheese Dip

These spicy roasted vegetarian appetizers get their texture from button mushrooms and canned white beans, sauced with a mix of Frank's, melted butter, and maple syrup.

Broiled Goat Cheese Toasts With Marinated Greens

Sometimes, the best appetizers are just simple combinations of everything good.

Creamy Avocado Dip With Scallions

This creamy dip is somewhere between onion dip and guacamole. Pair with pita chips, corn chips, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks.

Polenta Bites With Wild Mushrooms and Fontina

Store-bought tubes of polenta are the ultimate appetizer shortcut: just slice and toast in the oven, top with wild mushrooms and Fontina, or make your own riff with crispy salami batons, tapenade, or anything you like.

Pine Nut and White Bean Dip

To get the best-tasting dip, you really need to toast the pine nuts in this recipe. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.

Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cups

Turn this retro salad into finger food by serving the creamy seafood mix in lettuce cups.

Clams Casino With Bacon and Bell Pepper

A vinegary red bell pepper mixture cuts through the richness of this classic Italian-American appetizer. Roast just before serving so they're hot and crispy.

Hot Pimento Cheese Dip

This velvety-smooth hot take on pimento cheese spread has a hint of smokiness thanks to chipotle in adobo. Dip in pretzels, crackers, or cut up vegetables. Feel free to amp up the cheese with more chipotle or some hot sauce if you like.

Sesame Chicken Drumettes

Chicken wing drumettes are the sort of hearty appetizers that you can absolutely consider just a starter—or a complete dinner. These are cooked with sherry, fresh ginger, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil. 

Swiss Chard–Tahini Dip

Have your dip and your greens, too! This dairy-free dip gets its creamy factor from tahini and olive oil .

Lemon-Pepper Salami Bites

Cured meat and Marcona almonds are better together. In this hors d'oeuvre, they're dressed with fragrant lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper.

Bombay Rolls

This recipe from Meera Sodha's East was one of our all-time favorites from the past year. Each bite is cheesy, crunchy, spicy, bright, buttery, and flaky. What more could you ask for?

Fried Plantain Chips With Lime Sour Cream and Mango Hot Sauce

We've really gotten into making homemade hot sauce lately. This version pairs Scotch bonnets with fresh turmeric, chopped mango, sugarcane vinegar, and orange juice. A little lime sour cream on the side cools things off.

Bacon and Cheddar Toasts

This is as simple as could be, but it's really good, too. Think bacon and cheddar sandwich, but on a crouton.

Dakgangjeong

These sweet, crunchy Korean fried chicken wings will stay crispy for hours. And we'll happily keep eating them for hours, too.

Roasted Garlic Pull-Apart Cheese Bread

Get your fingers in there: Pulling apart bits of this cheesy, garlicky bread is definitely part of the fun.

There are lots of great ways to cook okra, but this crispy cornmeal-dredged version might be the best of all.

Baked Three-Cheese Onion Dip With Chive and Pepperoncini

Introduce your favorite dips to each other with this recipe, which boasts all the beauty of a creamy onion dip with the irresistible appeal of queso.

Roasted Vegetables Antipasto Plate

An antipasto platter doesn't have to be a boring collection of cold cuts. Well-seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables add a ton of character and flavor to the mix.

Step one: Make this easy, vibrant dip of toasted walnuts and roasted red peppers. Step two: Tackle homemade pita .

Potato Skins with Bacon and Cheese

This version of the classic bar snack gets Monterey Jack cheese and sharp cheddar, plus crispy bacon, green onions, and sour cream, but you can also go rogue with the toppings and dress your potato skins any way you like.

Classic Cheese Ball

A retro favorite that never goes out of style, this cheese ball starts with cream cheese, cheddar, and Brie, seasoned with Worcestershire, hot sauce, and onion and garlic powders. Toasted pecans are an essential final touch.

Pan con Tomate

This is a juicier take on pan con tomate: you'll grate the tomatoes to make a raw sauce that bread can really absorb.

Epi's 50-Ingredient Super Bowl Nachos

Okay, you don't actually need to go wild with all 50 ingredients. You can choose just one of the (much-simpler) five “zones” to make for game day.

Marinated Manchego

Cheese is just a snack. But garlic, orange, and rosemary-marinated cheese is a full-blown appetizer.

Smoked Salmon 7-Layer Dip

The classic seven-layer dip takes to the sea with this elegant recipe, which matches hot-smoked salmon with beet horseradish, two kinds of soft cheese, and crunchy vegetables and herbs.

Cauliflower-Carrot Cheesy Tots

Tots are fun for all ages. Cauliflower and carrot add sweet, earthy flavor to the format.

Parsnip-Wrapped Devils on Horseback

Many of the best appetizer recipes can be reworked for folks who don't eat meat. This vegetarian version of the classic hors d'oeuvre uses soy sauce, smoked paprika, and smoked almonds to pack savory flavor into stuffed dates.

Kendra Vaculin

50 Easy Appetizers (+ Quick Recipes)

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning a quiet book club, you’ll want to bookmark these easy appetizer recipes.

From gooey baked brie recipes to spicy buffalo dip, there’s something here for every occasion.

Easy Appetizers For Your Next Party

People love to graze. I know I’d rather have a plate full of yummy apps than one big meal.

And thanks to these easy appetizers, your next party will have so much to choose from that your guests will be spoiled for choice.

I’m talking hot dips, cold dips, chips, veggies, savory pastries, sweet treats, and more. 

We have a lot to get through, so let’s just dive right in!

Finger Food Party Appetizers

Pigs in a Blanket (with Cheese!)

This recipe is a classic for a reason – everyone loves it!

You know you can put a tray of these out and have a happy crowd of kids and adults alike.

Use store-bought crescent rolls and sliced cheese to make the prep lightning fast. I also like to throw in some bacon for good measure.

Hawaiian Roll Ham and Cheese Sliders

Sliders are budget-friendly, easy appetizers for a crowd that you can whip up without too much trouble.

Take these ham and cheese ones, for example. They need only ten ingredients and come together in just 35 minutes.

Yet despite their convenience (and small size), they’re delicious and surprisingly filling.

The Best Veggie Tray

It might not be as sexy as apple bruschetta, but most people really love a good veggie tray.

The trick is to make it varied and colorful! You’ll want plenty of options and a dip to bring it all together.

Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon (Just 3 Ingredients!)

In the UK, pigs in a blanket are cocktail sausages wrapped in bacon.

They don’t tend to use pastry or crescent rolls, but they’re salty, meaty, and the perfect little bites. These particular smokies also have a little brown sugar on them.

It adds a fantastic sweetness to the mix, ensuring this recipe will become one of your new favorites.

Whipped Ricotta Crostini

You’ve probably had savory crostini before, and it’s always a great, easy appetizer. This recipe, though, is a bit on the sweet side.

Drizzled in honey with chopped roasted pistachios, they always get plenty of smiles when I bring them out.

They’re delicious finger foods that’ll make you feel like a million bucks.

Baked Brie Bites with Cranberry

You really can’t beat the rich flavor or creamy Brie with some sharp and fresh cranberry sauce.

Not only is it delicious, but the colors are so tempting.

In truth, most jams would work beautifully in this, as the sweetness pairs so well with the savory cheese.

I like to use puff pastry to get some buttery flakes.

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a staple at pretty much every party.

That’s because they’re small, easy to eat, and great for bringing along to a gathering.

As much as I like to experiment, I’ve found buffalo chicken to be the winner. It’s sticky, spicy, and simply to die for.

Shrimp Cocktail

Looking for something that’ll make you feel like you and your guests are living the high life? Check out this simple, delicious shrimp cocktail.

Fresh shrimp grilled to perfection and served with homemade cocktail sauce. It doesn’t get much ritzier than that.

Also, bookmark this recipe just for the cocktail sauce. Trust me; it’s divine.

Sausage Balls

Speaking of easy appetizers for a crowd, sausage balls are always a big hit. You can serve them for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer.

They’re extremely versatile, filling, and delicious. And if you don’t want to make them totally from scratch, Bisquick can help.

With this recipe, you’ll only need five simple ingredients.

Mini-Apple, Cheddar & Bacon Fillo Snack Tart Recipe

Fillo consists of multiple layers of super thin pastry. It’s usually brushed with butter before being layered, making it extra crisp and flaky.

Working with it at home can be a pain, which is why I like to use ready-made frozen shells.

Just fill them with your apple, cheese, and bacon mixture and bake until the cheese melts.

Warm and Cheesy Dips

Easy Pizza Dip

Anyone can open a jar of salsa, but how about going the extra mile with a hot, cheesy dip full of pizza flavors?

Serving pizza isn’t always ideal with a crowd, but this dip is the next best thing. You’ll have the tangy tomato sauce, melted cheese, and plenty of pepperonis.

Serve with breadsticks, crackers, or garlic toast.

Hormel Chili Dip

Three ingredients and 5 minutes? Talk about easy appetizers!

I don’t know anyone that can resist a rich, cheesy dip. It’s full of Hormel chili, so you know it’s bursting with flavor.

I love the cream cheese base, too, for added creaminess. If you want it spicy, throw in some chopped jalapeños, as well.

Velveeta Sausage Dip

Here’s another super simple, three-ingredient dip you can whip up in minutes. This one is loaded with crumbled sausage and tomatoes.

Velveeta is the key here, as it will melt beautifully and not turn lumpy.

However, if you use a slow cooker and hold the dip on “warm,” most cheeses will do the trick.

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Want a spicy, extra-cheesy dip not made with Velveeta? This jalapeno popper dip is perfect. It has just the right amount of heat and jalapeno flavor.

But it’s the rich blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheese that really seals the deal.

Of course, the buttery parmesan and cracker crumb topping doesn’t hurt, either!

Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe

If you’ve ever had Applebee’s spinach dip, you’ll know it’s extra creamy and full of garlicky goodness. 

That’s because they add alfredo sauce rather than just using cream cheese! It adds much more flavor and makes for a smoother dip overall. 

You can use store-bought alfredo, but I recommend making your own. Use my  fettuccine alfredo  recipe to learn how. 

Crockpot Bean Dip

This bean dip is a smooth mix of refried beans, chiles, sour cream, salsa, lime juice, garlic, onion, chili powder, and cheese for something totally hands-off.

It sounds like a lot, but since it’s cooked in a Crockpot, all you’ll have to do is mix and walk away.

For an even faster mix, use a packet of taco seasoning instead.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Rotisserie chicken is probably the best thing you can buy at the store. It’s juicy and bursting with flavor.

There’s no way you can recreate it at home!

It’s also perfect for this spicy, cheesy dip. Just shred it and add it to the mix for a super hearty and popular starter everyone will love.

If looking at this chunky dip doesn’t make your mouth water, there’s something wrong with your eyes. (Or maybe your salivary glands?)

Either way, you should see a doctor because SOMETHING isn’t right!

This delicious dip is a creamy combination of cheddar and cream cheeses, green onions, bacon, tomatoes, and so much more. It’s heavenly.

Cool Party Dips

Green Onion Dip

Move over, French onion dip! This homemade green onion dip is here, and it’s here to stay! This cool and creamy dip is brimming with flavor.

It comes together quickly with a handful of ingredients. But when I tell you it’s flavor overload, I’m not kidding!

It’s one appetizer you’ll be returning to all day.

Pimento Cheese

This Southern fave is a tasty mix of cheddar, Monterey jack, cream cheese, and pimento peppers. Plus, it’s another Paula Deen recipe, so you know it’s good.

Smear it onto crackers, serve it as a dip, or turn it into finger sandwiches. Either way, it’s an easy appetizer recipe your friends will love.

Chipotle Guacamole Recipe

Guacamole will always be the king of the dips, in my opinion. And as good as some store-bought options are, you can’t beat the homemade stuff.

This Chipotle copycat includes everything you need to make it perfect: cilantro, lime juice, red onions, and jalapeños.

You can also add diced tomatoes for added chunkiness.

French Onion Dip

Caramelized onions are the key to a good bowl of French onion soup. They should be deep, dark, and super intense. This dip is no different!

Since the onions are the star of the dish, be prepared to take your time.

They need a little love and a lot of slow cooking to get to the right flavor and consistency.

Pub-Style Beer Cheese Dip

Want to know what to serve with those soft pretzel bites above? Try this scrumdiddlyumptious beer cheese dip!

Pretzels, cheese, and beer are a match made in heaven, and you can serve this hot or cold. It’s fantastic either way.

I’m a big fan of beer, so I use something like a Sam Adams that has a more pronounced flavor.

Seven-Layer Taco Dip

Everyone loves tacos, but they’re not the easiest appetizer to put out. So, how about a big bowl of taco dip instead?

As the name suggests, this dip has seven layers, each better than the last.

I like it with just beans, but you can so easily make it an eight-layer dip with some spicy ground beef or shredded chicken.

Cowboy Caviar

This is such a colorful and fun appetizer. It gets its name because of its bold Tex-Mex flavor and because it looks a little like caviar.

Loaded with corn, beans, tomatoes, and peppers, you can serve this with chips, on crostini, or over some mini tostadas.

Quick and Easy Appetizers

Paula Deen Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs always make excellent finger foods for a party, and Paula Deen definitely knows how to make them.

Use her simple-to-follow recipe to ensure your guests devour your deviled eggs. One thing’s for sure — you won’t have to worry about leftovers!

Easy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks 

Did you know you can make mozzarella sticks using those string cheese packs you have in the fridge? As if they weren’t already your favorite snack!

To get them super crunchy, dredge them twice, giving them a double coating of breadcrumbs for the best possible texture. 

I like to serve mine with  marinara , and  this spicy version  is pretty incredible. 

Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball

In terms of party recipes, you can’t beat a cheese ball.

I mean, it’s a delicious ball of cream cheese, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and bacon bits! What’s not to love?!

It’ll be messy as you shape it and add the bacon, but it’s worth it. Serve with buttery Ritz crackers for the ultimate taste explosion.

Jalapeño Cheese Crisps

These crisps should come with a warning – once you have one, you won’t be able to stop.

You’ll only need two ingredients – cheese and chilis – a baking tray and an oven. As the cheese cooks, it’ll melt and “grab” the jalapeño, encasing it in a crispy shell.

Make a triple batch! You’ll likely eat a dozen while you work.

Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

I’m a huge proponent of air fryers. They’re probably one of the most amazing inventions of the 21st century. If you don’t have one, GET ONE!

Then, use it to make these scrumptious, bite-sized crab rangoons. They’re savory, umami-packed morsels everyone will love.

Just be sure to make enough. You don’t want to start a fight at your own party!

Rattlesnake Bites

If you haven’t had Texas Roadhouse’s Rattlesnake Bites, I’m about to be your new best friend.

This copycat recipe has everything you need to recreate these cheesy balls of YUM.

Basically, they’re gooey cheese balls with a hush puppy-like crust and plenty of spice from jalapenos and cayenne pepper. They’re phenomenal.

Easy Apple Bruschetta Recipe

Unlike jam, chutney is usually chunky and has a sweet-savory blend of ingredients.

You’ve probably had a mango chutney with your curry, but this apple chutney is something else.

It’s sweet and sour, using apples, red onion, vinegar, and brown sugar to give your taste buds a real kick.

Mix it with some tangy goat cheese for one tasty appetizer.

Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread (Pull Apart Bread)

Also known as “crack bread,” this recipe is a winner every time. Sourdough is my go-to, but any solid loaf with a decent crust will work.

Whip it up if you need an easy appetizer for a crowd that everyone will enjoy.

Grape Jelly Meatballs

Grape jelly meatballs aren’t some of the least messy finger foods you can serve. However, they ARE some of the tastiest.

They have that delightful balance of sweetness, savoriness, and spice. They’re also effortless to make. (Especially if you start with frozen meatballs!)

Give them a try if you need crowd-pleasing appetizers for a party.

Roasted Chickpeas

I’m embarrassed to admit this. But for the longest time, I thought chickpeas were only good for one thing: hummus.

Thankfully, someone’s roasted chickpea recipe set me straight. This specific recipe provides you with four roasted chickpea variations.

You can make them salty, spicy, sweet, or BBQ-flavored. Dealer’s choice! And they’re all winners.

Soft Pretzel Bites

Craving soft pretzel bites? Don’t head to the store! You can make them at home more easily than most realize.

I won’t lie. They take a little time (mostly because the dough needs to rise). But the process itself isn’t complicated.

Bake them and serve them with cheese or even melted chocolate for dipping. Yummy!

Scotch Eggs

Want an egg-based appetizer that isn’t deviled eggs? Try these traditional Scotch eggs instead.

They’re simple boiled eggs covered in sausage, flour, and breadcrumbs and deep-fried until they’re golden brown.

They have crunchy exteriors, savory middles, and smooth and silky centers. If you’ve never had them, you can’t even imagine how tasty they are.

Simple Party Snacks

Bacon Wrapped Dates

Not only do these look incredible, but they’re absolutely bursting with flavor. You won’t believe something so small could be so good.

You’ll have to split the dates to get the pits out anyway, so why not fill that space with tangy cheese?

For the bacon, try to get something thin, and use toothpicks to keep it in place.

Cheese Quesadillas (For a Party)

If you’ve ever had a homemade quesadilla and found it lacking, this recipe will change that.

You need decent cheese – something mature with lots of flavor – chilis, onion, and coarse salt. You’ll also want to use small, four-inch tortillas.

It’s a simple mix, but it makes all the difference.

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are such a treat, and they’re versatile, too!

I usually go for something garlicky with breadcrumbs, but these crab-stuffed ones are excellent, too!

They’re decadent, indulgent, and all those other words that mean something is high-quality, fancy, and overwhelmingly flavorful.

Quick and Easy Nachos

Nachos are one of the all-time greats when it comes to easy appetizers.

You can keep them super simple or go above and beyond with a plethora of crazy toppings. Which do you think I prefer?

I say go big or go home! You’ll want chili, beef, beans, pico, guacamole, onion, chilis, and plenty of cheese.

Garlic Cheese Flatbread

How often have you poured out a bag of chips only to find half crushed? They’re still tasty, but they’re not great for dipping!

Avoid that problem by making your own flatbread chips. That’ll ensure they’re big enough to handle all those dips you’ve made.

You can even get creative and cut out fun shapes for the kids!

Bacon Cheddar Ranch Pinwheels

They might look like the ham and cheese roll-ups, but these are served cold. Making them is as easy as mixing your cream cheese with ranch dry mix.

Fold through some bacon, cheese, and chives, and spread onto flour tortillas. That’s all it takes, my friends. You’ll have them ready in no time.

Marinated Cheese

I know it’s not something you see every day. How do you marinate cheese? And in what?

It’s incredible how much flavor you can impart into a slice of cheese when you leave it to marinate for a few hours.

It’s a big step up from just regular cheese slices and crackers.

Alabama Fire Crackers

You don’t have to be from the South to enjoy these quick and easy Alabama fire crackers. These crunchy, spicy snacks are universally delicious.

They’re really just jazzed-up saltines, but the “jazzed up” part makes all the difference in the world. These things are 110% addictive. So be sure to make a huge batch.

Antipasto Charcuterie Board

I can think of nothing more stunning than a charcuterie platter full of meats, cheeses, fruits, crackers, and nuts.

You can use whatever ingredients you like, and it’s almost impossible to go wrong.

To make it look like a million bucks, use a nice wooden board, and don’t be afraid of adding extras! You won’t want empty gaps in there.

Italian Pizza Bites

These are like pizza muffins — soft and moist, just like a good muffin should be!

They’re full of pepperoni and salami for real pizza taste. They’re best served warm with marinara or garlic dipping sauce.

I highly recommend adding extra cheese to the top and letting it bubble and turn golden.

Texas Twinkies

If you’ve never tried (or heard of) Texas Twinkies, get ready to have your mind blown.

Let’s just say that if you’re a fan of BBQ and jalapeno poppers, you’ll go gaga for these bites!

Sweet Appetizers for a Crowd

5-Ingredient Apple Brickle Dip

This recipe gets its name from the use of almond brickle chips.

These are almost like almond brittle and can be made with caramel and almonds, letting them set and go hard.

It’s not super easy to find, and recipes vary. So, this mix uses toffee bits, which are more convenient and will give you the same tasty crunch.

Caramel Apple Dip

My friends know they’ll get something sweet if I’m in charge of chips and dips. It’s just a fact!

And as good as all those fantastic savory dishes are, no table is complete without a little caramel.

This sweet dip is like a caramel cheesecake, made with a layer of sweet cream cheese and then a thick layer of caramel.

50 Easy Appetizers for Your Next Party

Try these easy appetizers for your next party or gathering! From dips and wings to these incredible antipasto skewers, these finger foods are guaranteed to keep your guests happy!

Ingredients

12 baby mozzarella balls (or bocconcini cocktail-sized)

1/3 cup Italian dressing

12 wooden skewers (medium sized)

12 cherry or grape tomatoes

12 pitted Kalamata olives

12 green olives

12 pieces of marinated artichoke hearts (or preserved artichoke hearts)

24 thin slices of salami (Genoa or preferred type, can also mix with prosciutto di parma or mortadella if desired)

12 leaves of fresh basil, torn (or a mix of basil, mint, or flat-leaf parsley)

extra virgin olive oil for drizzling (optional)

balsamic reduction & fresh basil and parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

• Toss the mozzarella balls with the Italian dressing in a large bowl. Set aside and allow the mozzarella to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
• Begin assembling the skewers in the following order: Start with a tomato. Then, add a piece of rolled or folded meat (salami, etc.), a black olive, and a piece of basil.
• Next, add a marinated mozzarella ball, a green olive, and an artichoke heart. Top the skewers with a second piece of meat.
• Drizzle the complete skewers with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
• Transfer the skewers to a serving platter. If desired, drizzle them with balsamic reduction. Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley.
• Refrigerate the skewers until ready to serve, or serve them immediately.
• If refrigerating, consider drizzling with olive oil or dressing just before serving to freshen them up.

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50 Easy Appetizers That Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting cocktails for your friends or throwing an all-out dinner party, these small bites are sure to impress.

Easy Appetizer Recipes That Will Impress

Appetizers may be small, but they often make the biggest impression. Whether you choose beautifully topped bruschetta , the always-popular pigs in a blanket or an array of party-worthy dips , the colorful presentation and perfectly paired flavors (because you’re serving wine or cocktails too, right?) are guaranteed to keep your guests coming back for more. Just take these show-stopping bites, for example. Valerie creates a sophisticated appetizer by layering roast beef, horseradish cream and chives into pillowy mini Yorkshire puddings. It sounds (and looks!) fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.

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Party Meatballs

The best thing about these meatballs, besides the flavor of course, is that you can make them ahead of time, bake them and then pop them in the freezer. They'll thaw as they simmer away in the sauce.

Clam dip is one of those old-timey New England dishes that is popular up and down the coast, often made for family gatherings like barbecues or holidays. Every New Englander who knows the dip probably has an opinion on whether it should be made with cream cheese or sour cream (or both), and which mix-ins should be added. This version is classic and simple, made from cream cheese, canned clams (which you can use straight from the can, no cooking necessary), scallions, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Feel free to serve it with your favorite dippers, whether those are potato chips, sliced vegetables or even Fritos.

Perfect Charcuterie Board

A beautiful charcuterie board is a statement piece and a time saver, since it typically requires no cooking. The word "charcuterie" refers to cold cooked, cured or smoked meats, and it’s also the name of the French stores in which they are sold. So, in the most official sense, a traditional charcuterie board is just a meat platter. These days, charcuterie boards have risen to a revered status in the world of snacks and appetizers, with most boards incorporating cheese, fresh and dried fruit, nuts, pickles and other treats. Aim for contrasting and complementary tastes and textures when choosing pairings and experiment with flavor combinations: sharp cheeses such as asiago or Roquefort drizzled with honey or paired with jam, dry, salty crystallized cheeses such as Parmesan or Pecorino paired with fatty cuts of meat like soppressata or bresaola, crunchy nuts or crackers with gooey triple-cream or burrata and piquant condiments such as mustard and pickles to cut through the richness of salami or pâté.

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Air New Zealand flights to Australia and Pacific receive new fare system

Sarah Pollok

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Kiwis travelling on Air New Zealand to Australia and the Pacific Islands can expect more in-flight entertainment, snacks and flexible fares from June, the airline says.

The days of booking a simple Seat+Bag fare on an Air New Zealand flight to Australia or the Pacific Islands will end in June, it says.

Air New Zealand has announced several changes to its short-haul booking options for flights across the ditch and around the Pacific.

Its new offering, named Seats to Suit, simplifies fare options and increases the “essentials” all passengers receive.

The changes were in response to customers’ desire for more choice regarding what they paid for in a ticket, Air NZ general manager short haul Jeremy O’Brien said.

“The new Seats to Suit updates are based on customer feedback and changes our passengers were looking for,” he said, adding the airline was excited to introduce the changes in June.

So, what changes are coming in June?

Seat+Bag discontinued

From June 11, the Seat+Bag option will be replaced with a Seat fare type, which means travellers with no luggage can pay only for their seat, while those who want to check a bag can add one for $30.

In-flight entertainment and snacks for all

With many airlines, a simple seat fare means you get a spot to sit and nothing else, not even water. However, Air NZ’s revamp means all passengers, even simple Seat fare folk, get access to full in-flight entertainment, a snack and tea, coffee, water and juice.

New flexi fares

The fares will now include Worksflexi, Premiumflexi or Businessflexi. When booking these fares, any change fee is waived if a customer wants to alter their booking and only a fare difference is applied. Refundable fares are also available.

On-board food and drink services to change

Because all passengers will get a snack or meal on board, the airline will no longer allow people to buy in-flight bites, but they can still buy drinks. Plus, customers will no longer be able to buy vouchers at the airport for items on board.

New fare types

The new fare types will include: Seat, Theworks, Worksflexi, Premiumeconomy, Premiumflexi, Businesspremier and Businessflexi.

Long-term domestic fares to increase

Meanwhile, in Aotearoa, travel agents have been warned by Air New Zealand to book domestic fares ASAP.

An industry note from the airline said long-term domestic fares on all routes would increase from April 23, so bookings must be ticketed on or before midnight on Monday, April 22.

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