Summer is here, which means it’s time to trade in our warm, comforting bowls of soup and hearty casseroles for light, cool, and refreshing dishes that can be enjoyed outdoors. One of the best ways to do this is with a delicious cold appetizer. Not only are they perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to heat up your kitchen, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit any taste or theme.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 refreshing cold appetizer recipes that are sure to become staples at your next outdoor gathering, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, picnic, or pool party. From classic combinations like cucumber and smoked salmon to more adventurous pairings like pomegranate and walnut, there’s something for everyone on this list. So sit back, relax, and get ready to beat the heat with these 20 refreshing cold appetizer recipes perfect for summer!
Cucumber and Smoked Salmon Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the freshness of cucumber with the richness of smoked salmon, perfect for a quick and easy canapé or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Arrange cucumber slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Top each cucumber slice with a dollop of the cream cheese mixture, followed by a small piece of smoked salmon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Herb Dip
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing dip that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the bright flavors of fresh herbs. Perfect for veggie sticks, pita chips, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
Avocado and Shrimp Salad Cups
These refreshing salad cups are perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a snack. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a crispy cup.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Cut tortillas into 6-8 cups.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
6. Place a shrimp on each cup, then top with the avocado mixture.
7. Drizzle with any remaining lime juice marinade.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including marinating time)
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this colorful and flavorful take on the classic Caprese salad. Sweet, tangy, and savory, these bite-sized skewers are perfect for any gathering.
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)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato, mozzarella round, and basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Repeat the pattern until all ingredients are used up, leaving a small space between each cluster.
4. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is slightly melted and tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watermelon and Feta Mint Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the juiciness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up with a refreshing minty twist. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light and easy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced watermelon
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, then season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chilled Gazpacho Soup Shooters
Beat the heat with these vibrant and flavorful chilled gazpacho soup shooters, perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, parsley, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, then stir in chicken broth and yogurt.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the chilled gazpacho soup shooters in small glasses or cups, garnished with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or last-minute entertaining.
Tuna Tartare on Crispy Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and elegant dish that combines the rich flavors of tuna tartare with crispy wonton chips. Perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Wonton wrappers (about 12-15 sheets)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, wasabi paste, and lime juice.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry wonton wrappers in batches until crispy and golden brown (about 30 seconds per side).
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve tuna tartare on top of crispy wontons, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (including frying time).
Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Slices
Elevate your snack or appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of melon with the salty flavor of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe melon (such as cantaloupe, honeydew, or galia)
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the melon into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Wrap each slice with a piece of prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. Arrange the wrapped melon slices on a platter or individual serving plates.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – this recipe is ready to serve as is.
Beet and Goat Cheese Crostini
These bite-sized appetizers combine the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a crispy baguette slice.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into thin wedges.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
5. Top each crostini with a beet wedge, a dollop of goat cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Asian-Inspired Sesame Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with the simplicity of a noodle dish. With its crunchy texture and nutty flavor, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add cooked noodles, scallions, red bell pepper, and toasted sesame seeds to the bowl. Toss until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Caviar Topping
These deviled eggs get a sophisticated twist with the addition of caviar, perfect for a special occasion or brunch gathering. This recipe combines classic flavors with a touch of luxury.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or paprika (optional)
– 1 ounce caviar (such as Ossetra or Sevruga)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Garnish with chives or paprika, if desired.
7. Top each deviled egg with a small spoonful of caviar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including hard-boiling eggs)
Zucchini and Ricotta Roll-Ups
These bite-sized roll-ups are a refreshing take on traditional stuffed zucchini, with the added creaminess of ricotta cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Place a tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each zucchini round, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll up each zucchini round tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pineapple and Crab Salad in Endive Leaves
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and flavorful salad featuring tender endive leaves, succulent crab meat, and juicy pineapple chunks. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 endive leaves
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 8 oz jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the endive leaves in half lengthwise, removing any tough whites from the center.
2. In a medium bowl, combine pineapple chunks, crab meat, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well to combine.
3. Spoon about 2-3 tbsp of the crab-pineapple mixture onto each endive leaf half.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, making it perfect for a quick and easy prep ahead option.
Tomato and Basil Bruschetta
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious bruschetta recipe, featuring fresh tomatoes and basil on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of baguette
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the toasted bread with olive oil.
5. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto the bread slices.
6. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
A refreshing summer treat that combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with a savory dipping sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for hot days or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soba noodles
– 2 cups cold water
– For the dipping sauce:
+ 1/2 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup rice vinegar
+ 2 tablespoons honey
+ 1 tablespoon grated ginger
+ 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Combine cooked soba noodles with the dipping sauce in a large bowl. Toss to coat the noodles evenly.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (cooking noodles) + preparation time
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
A savory twist on a classic appetizer, these Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms are perfect for any gathering. With a rich flavor profile and tender texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filling and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate and Walnut Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory bites, perfect for a quick treat or a stylish addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon pomegranate juice
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and pomegranate juice until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1/4 teaspoon of the honey-pomegranate mixture.
4. Top each date with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
5. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dates are slightly caramelized and the nuts are toasted.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chilled Mango and Avocado Salsa
A refreshing twist on traditional salsa, this chilled mango and avocado salsa is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack any time of the year. With its creamy texture and sweet-tart flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mango, avocado, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready when you are!)
Smoked Trout Pâté with Crackers
This elegant appetizer combines the rich flavors of smoked trout with creamy pâté and crunchy crackers, perfect for a sophisticated gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) package smoked trout, flaked
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions
– Crackers (such as water crackers or wheat thins)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flaked trout, cream cheese, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in chopped chives or scallions.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, accompanied by crackers.
Cooking Time: None required
Herbed Quinoa and Chickpea Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish. The combination of nutty quinoa, creamy chickpeas, and fragrant herbs makes for a delicious and nutritious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Drain and rinse chickpeas.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, and garlic.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cold appetizer recipes! From light and zesty to rich and indulgent, there’s something for everyone. Try the Cucumber and Smoked Salmon Bites or Greek Yogurt and Herb Dip for a taste of Mediterranean flair. Or, cool down with Avocado and Shrimp Salad Cups, Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze, or Watermelon and Feta Mint Salad. These 20 recipes are perfect for outdoor gatherings, potlucks, or just a quick snack.
