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Party-Ready Starters With 19 Ideas That Will Steal The Spotlight

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Say goodbye to boring, predictable appetizers and hello to these crowd-pleasing creations. Not only will they make your table look amazing, but they'll also ensure that no one goes hungry before the main event. With these 19 ideas in your back pocket, you’ll be the host everyone remembers.

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A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking for a crowd-pleaser at your next party? These crispy, spiced fritters are perfect for any gathering. Chicken Pakora brings an Indian-inspired twist to your appetizer spread. They're easy to make in large batches and can be served with various dips.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Air Fryer Spring Rolls

Stacked spring rolls on a white plate.
Air Fryer Spring Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Party starters don't have to be unhealthy. Using an air fryer, you can create crispy, golden Air Fryer Spring Rolls with less oil. These versatile appetizers can be filled with various ingredients to suit different dietary preferences, making them a hit at any party.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spring Rolls

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Add a touch of sophistication to your party spread with this creamy, flavorful dip. Smoked Salmon Dip is a versatile starter that pairs well with crackers, vegetables, or bread. It's easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your guests during the party.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Air Fryer BBQ Wings

A pile of air fryer BBQ wings on a white platter.
Air Fryer BBQ Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Wings are always a hit at parties, and the air fryer makes them even better. Air Fryer BBQ Wings come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They're less messy to prepare than traditional fried wings, and you can easily customize the sauce.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Wings

Arepas con Queso

Close up shot of an arepa con queso split open to show the cheesy filling.
Arepas con Queso. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Introduce your guests to a taste of South America with these corn-based patties. Arepas con Queso is filling, gluten-free, and can be prepared ahead of time. It's best served warm, so consider keeping them in a low oven until ready to serve at your party.
Get the Recipe: Arepas con Queso

Instant Pot Shrimp

Cooked shrimp in a green and white striped bowl, garnished with parsley.
Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Impress your guests with minimal effort using your Instant Pot. Instant Pot Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent choice for a last-minute appetizer. Serve them chilled with cocktail sauce or warm with garlic butter for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp

Thai Fish Cakes

Thai fish cakes on a black plate with prik nam pla.
Thai Fish Cakes. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring some Thai-inspired flavors to your party with these flavorful patties. Thai Fish Cakes are aromatic, slightly spicy, and pair well with a cool dipping sauce. They can be made ahead and reheated just before serving, making them convenient for busy hosts.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fish Cakes

Chicken Karaage

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Japanese-style fried chicken is a great alternative to standard party fare. Chicken Karaage is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. These bite-sized pieces are perfect for grabbing and munching, making them ideal for mingling with guests at your party.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Instant Pot Hummus

Hummus in a black bowl garnished with whole chickpeas, olive oil, and paprika.
Instant Pot Hummus. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Homemade hummus is always a hit, and the Instant Pot makes it even easier. Instant Pot Hummus comes out smooth and creamy with minimal effort. Serve it with a variety of dippers like pita chips, vegetables, or crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hummus

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Taco Dip

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a fun, customizable appetizer that's sure to be a hit, consider serving Taco Dip at your next gathering. This layered dip combines classic taco flavors in an easy-to-serve format. Set out a variety of toppings and let guests personalize their portions.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip

Air Fryer Onion Rings

Pile of onion rings on a white plate.
Air Fryer Onion Rings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crispy, golden, and irresistible, Air Fryer Onion Rings are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. They offer the same crunch and flavor as deep-fried versions but with less oil. These rings are perfect for those who want to indulge without the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Onion Rings

Guacamole

Guacamole in a white bowl with limes, cilantro, and tortilla chips on the side.
Guacamole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

No party is complete without a bowl of fresh Guacamole. This versatile dip pairs well with chips, veggies, or as a topping for other appetizers. It's easy to customize to your guests' preferences, making it a foolproof choice for any event.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Thai Chicken Satay

Overhead shot of thai chicken satay on a black plate with peanut sauce on the side.
Thai Chicken Satay. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bring some international flair to your party with Thai Chicken Satay. These skewers are packed with flavor and make for an easy-to-eat finger food. They're a great option for those looking to offer something a bit more exotic at their gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Bang Bang Shrimp

Plate of rice topped with shrimp in sauce, garnished with chopped tomatoes and green onions, with chopsticks on the side. Another similar plate and vegetables in the background.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicy, creamy, and utterly addictive, Bang Bang Shrimp is sure to be a hit at your next get-together. This dish combines crispy shrimp with a flavorful sauce that keeps people coming back for more. It's a perfect balance of textures and flavors that your guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a spicy kick at your party, serve up some Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. They're a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version but don't compromise on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Har Gow

4 har gow shrimp dumplings in a bamboo steamer basket.
Har Gow. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Impress your guests with homemade Har Gow, a classic dim sum favorite. These delicate shrimp dumplings are a true testament to your culinary skills. They're perfect for those who want to offer something a bit more sophisticated at their gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow

Char Siu Bao

Low angle shot of two mantou buns filled with char siu filling.
Char Siu Bao. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Soft, fluffy, and filled with savory goodness, Char Siu Bao are always a hit at parties. These Chinese steamed buns offer a unique texture and flavor experience. They're great for guests who enjoy exploring different cuisines and textures.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao

Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

Fried wontons on a black plate with dipping sauce.
Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons are irresistible party bites. They're perfect for dipping and can be prepared ahead of time. These wontons are sure to disappear quickly from your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Add some Hawaiian flair to your party with Mochiko Chicken. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a unique, slightly sweet batter that gives them a distinctive texture. They're a great conversation starter and offer something different.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

By on December 22nd, 2024
Photo of Robin Donovan

About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind All Ways Delicious. She’s an Associated Press syndicated food and travel writer and the bestselling author of more than 40 cookbooks, including Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications including Chicago Sun-Times, Huffington Post, MSN, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Seattle Times, Food & Wine, Cooking Light, PopSugar, Fitness, Mercury News, and many others. More about Robin

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