How to build the ultimate appetizer spread

How to build the ultimate appetizer spread

How To

How do you host an unforgettable feast for a crowd of carnivores, vegans and gluten-free guests? All the appetizers.

Is it just us, or have dinner parties gotten a whole lot more complicated? Your sister’s a vegan, mom loves meat and your daughter is celiac. Hello, logistical nightmare. But the solution is simple: Ditch the complicated dinner menu and embrace the freezer and deli aisle. We have everything you need to create a spread of handheld appetizers your guests can nosh on all night long. And the only prep you need to do is slide the apps into the oven. Magic! 

When hosting an appetizers-only event, the rule of thumb is aim for 12 to 15 individual pieces per person. You’ll also want to include at least three types of appetizers – ideally one from each of “The Basics” below, although more is always better.  

1.
Meat and seafood

These will keep your guests full in the absence of a main course, so you’ll want to offer at least one option.

  • Breaded chicken bites and/or wings, such as 

  • Meatballs, such as (Tip: Serve meatballs on skewers for mess-free eating.) 

  • Breaded hors d’oeuvres, such as

  • Seafood, such as ,   

2.
Breaded and puff pastry bites

These are your traditional breaded or puff pastry hors d’oeuvres. Flatbread is a great option here as well – simply cut it into triangles or fingers to serve a larger number of people.  

  • Breaded cheese sticks, such as or

  • Fries, such as  or 

  • Puff pastry bites, such as

3.
Dips and dippers

Fill the empty spots between the big-ticket items with dips, crackers, chips and sliced veggies. 

  • Crackers, such as , crostini and/or sliced raw vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers and sweet peppers 

  • Dips, such as and flavoured sour cream or mayo 

Level-up your spread with some additions that will satisfy plant-based and gluten-free diets, as well as some spicy options for those who can take the heat. 

Plant-based options 

  • Plant-based seafood, such as ,   

  • Plant-based breaded bites, such as

  • Plant-based dips, such as   

Gluten-free options 

  • Plant-based flatbreads, such as or

Spicy add-ins 

  • Spicy flatbreads, such as

  • Spicy dips, such as

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