When it comes to throwing a cocktail party, you want your guests to be impressed by not only the drinks but also the delicious food. After all, a great cocktail party is all about balance and variety. That’s why we’ve put together 20 elegant recipes that will elevate your gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.
From savory bites like mini crab cakes with lemon aioli and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, to sweet treats like truffle parmesan popcorn and chocolate-dipped strawberries, our collection of cocktail party recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a birthday celebration, or just a spontaneous gathering with friends, these recipes are sure to impress.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring dishes that blend flavors and styles from different cuisines. So grab your apron, don your party hat, and get ready to serve up some sophistication at your next cocktail party!
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
These bite-sized crab cakes pack a punch of flavor, thanks to the addition of bright and zesty lemon aioli. Perfect for a party or special occasion, these mini treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and egg.
4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the crab mixture until just combined.
5. Shape into mini patties (about 1-inch in diameter).
6. Fry patties in hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve with Lemon Aioli made by mixing equal parts mayonnaise and lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of goat cheese and crispy bacon. Perfect for parties or special occasions, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Stuff each date with a small amount of goat cheese.
3. Wrap a piece of bacon around the date, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites, perfect for a light and elegant gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together flaked salmon, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the salmon mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and flavorful Caprese skewers, topped with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Alternate threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves onto the skewers.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Phyllo Cups
Spinach and Artichoke Phyllo Cups: A Delicious Appetizer or Snack
These bite-sized cups are filled with a creamy spinach and artichoke mixture, wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry. Perfect for parties or game days!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture onto each piece.
4. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form cups, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Spray or brush with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your dining experience with this effortless recipe that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6-8 slices prosciutto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with 1-2 slices of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until prosciutto is crispy and asparagus is tender.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, drizzled with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Beef Wellingtons
Impress your guests with these adorable mini versions of the classic Beef Wellington. These individual pastries are perfect for parties, special occasions, or even just a quick dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix beef slices with mushroom duxelles, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
5. Place a beef-mushroom mixture in the center of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around.
6. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold pastry over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Truffle Parmesan Popcorn
Transform your movie night experience with this decadent and flavorful popcorn recipe, featuring the earthy richness of truffles and the salty creaminess of parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot or a popcorn machine until fluffy.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the truffle oil and stir to combine.
3. Pour the truffle-butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the popcorn and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including popping time)
Shrimp Cocktail Shooters
These bite-sized shrimp cocktail shooters are perfect for parties and gatherings. With a flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, tangy cocktail sauce, and a hint of citrus, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup cocktail sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cocktail glasses or shooter cups
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cocktail sauce and lime juice.
3. Place a single shrimp in each cocktail glass or shooter cup.
4. Spoon a small amount of the cocktail sauce mixture over the shrimp.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! These shrimp cocktail shooters are ready in just 5 minutes.
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
A classic Italian appetizer that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crusty bread for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto toasted bread rounds.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Elevate your gathering with a visually stunning and flavorful cheese and charcuterie board, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work well)
– 1 block of brie cheese
– 1/4 pound prosciutto di Parma
– 1/4 pound salami (such as pepperoni or chorizo)
– 1 baguette, sliced into thin rounds
– Fresh grapes, berries, or figs for garnish
– Optional: crackers, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese and charcuterie on a large board or platter.
2. Slice the prosciutto and salami into thin strips.
3. Place the cheese and meats in separate sections to create visual interest.
4. Add the sliced baguette around the board for dipping.
5. Garnish with fresh fruit and optional crackers, nuts, or dried fruits.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic Herb Cream Cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring earthy mushrooms and rich garlic herb cream cheese. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button, cremini, or shiitake)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, parsley, and chives. Mix until smooth.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the filling.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Lobster Rolls
Elevate your party with these bite-sized lobster rolls, perfect for a sophisticated snack or appetizer. Each mini roll is packed with succulent lobster meat and served on toasted, buttered buns.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound lobster meat
– 12 small, soft hamburger buns (about 1 inch in diameter)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter each bun lightly.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lobster meat, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the lobster mixture onto each buttered bun.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: None required! These mini rolls are ready in just a few minutes.
Parmesan Crisps with Whipped Goat Cheese
These crispy, cheesy bites are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, salads, or charcuterie boards. A delicate balance of savory and tangy, they’re sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add olive oil and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Roll out the dough between sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, whip softened goat cheese with heavy cream and a pinch of salt until smooth.
8. Serve Parmesan Crisps with whipped goat cheese and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
This classic Southeast Asian dish is a flavorful fusion of grilled chicken, peanuts, and spices. Enjoy the combination of tender chicken and creamy peanut sauce as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into skewers
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Peanut sauce ingredients: see below
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce: blend together 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter, 1/4 cup coconut milk, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons lime juice.
4. Serve the grilled chicken with the creamy peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Caviar
Elevate your deviled eggs game with a luxurious twist: adding caviar! This recipe combines the classic flavors of deviled eggs with the opulent richness of caviar, perfect for special occasions or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 ounce caviar (such as salmon or white sturgeon)
– Paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the eggs, cool, then cut in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and mash with a fork.
3. Mix with mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
5. Top each deviled egg with a small spoonful of caviar.
6. Sprinkle chives over the caviar.
7. Garnish with paprika.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Puff Pastry Bites with Brie and Jam
Elevate your snack game with these easy-to-make Puff Pastry Bites filled with creamy Brie cheese and sweet jam.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz Brie cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp fig or apricot jam
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. Place a small amount of softened Brie cheese in the center of each piece. Top with 1-2 tsp jam.
4. Fold pastry over filling, pressing edges together to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and spicy take on traditional tuna tartare. Crispy wonton chips add a satisfying crunch to the bold flavors of the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying wontons
– Wonton wrappers (about 20-25 sheets)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, wasabi paste, lime juice, sesame oil, and cilantro. Mix well.
2. Lay wonton wrappers on a flat surface. Brush edges with water and fold into triangles. Press edges to seal.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry wontons until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Serve tuna tartare on top of crispy wonton chips, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Margherita Pizzas
Elevate your pizza game with these adorable mini versions of the iconic margherita pizza. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying snack in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini pizza crusts (about 12-15 pieces)
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin strips
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the mini pizza crusts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread a small amount of marinara sauce onto each crust, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
4. Top each crust with a slice of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy your delicious mini margherita pizzas!
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Add a touch of elegance to your next gathering with these decadent chocolate-dipped strawberries. The perfect combination of fresh and rich, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 large strawberries, washed and dried
– 1 cup (200g) dark or semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon (15g) shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable shortening)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit. Tap off any excess chocolate by gently tapping the fork against the side of the bowl.
4. Place the dipped strawberries on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Summary
Looking for elegant cocktail party recipes? You’re in luck! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes perfect for any occasion. From savory bites like Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli and Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese, to sweet treats like Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites, Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze, and Mini Beef Wellingtons. Whether you’re hosting a formal gathering or an informal get-together, these recipes are sure to impress your guests.
