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Who Needs Dinner? Serve These 17 Appetizers Instead

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Why settle for one main course when you can live the dream and have 17 appetizers? It's the perfect solution for the indecisive diner. Why commit to one flavor when you can have them all? Plus, it's a great way to avoid the age-old question of “What's for dinner?” Now the answer's simple: “Everything.”

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A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Empanadas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Spring Rolls

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

For those craving a crunchy treat, Air Fryer Spring Rolls are a delicious option. They showcase a mix of vegetables and sometimes meat, all wrapped up in a crispy outer layer. Perfect for any gathering, they're a hit with guests looking for something both familiar and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spring Rolls

Samosas

Low angle shot of a samosa cut in half so that you can see the potato filling inside.
Samosas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you're aiming for a taste of Indian cuisine, Samosas are the way to go. These are pockets of pastry filled with a spicy mixture of potatoes and seasonings. They're brilliant for anyone who loves a bit of spice and crispiness in their appetizers. Pair them with a mint chutney.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Chicken Pakora

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

Chicken Pakora is a must for those who appreciate a bit of Indian flair without going too heavy. Bite-size chicken pieces are marinated, dipped in a flour batter, and deep-fried to perfection. They are wonderfully juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Smoked Salmon Dip

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

Want an elegant start to your gathering? Smoked Salmon Dip is a sophisticated choice. It blends the richness of smoked salmon with the creaminess of cheese and other seasonings. It's a versatile spread that goes well on crackers, bread, or even cucumber slices.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

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.

Thai Chicken Satay is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a bit of Asian zing to their spread. Skewered and grilled chicken, marinated in a mix of spices, exudes flavor in every bite. It's a hands-on eating experience that everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Whipped Feta Spread

Overhead shot of a black platter with a bowl of whipped feta spread, sauteed chard, and grilled sourdough bread.
Whipped Feta Spread. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Offer a creamy and tangy flavor that's hard to resist with Whipped Feta Spread. Feta cheese is whipped together with herbs to create a smooth spread. It's ideal for slathering on crusty bread or fresh vegetables. This spread adds a Mediterranean twist to your appetizer selection.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta Spread

Chicken 65

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken 65.
Chicken 65. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken 65 is a popular choice for those desiring a spicy kick. This deep-fried chicken dish is marinated in a host of Indian spices, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. It's commonly enjoyed with a side of onion slices and lemon wedges, which cut through the spice nicely.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65

Thai Fish Cakes

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

Bring a slice of Thailand to your table with Thai Fish Cakes' unique flavor and texture. Infused with Thai herbs and spices, these are both aromatic and delicious. The dipping sauce perfectly balances their delicious profile. It’s an exotic choice that’s bound to impress.
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.

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Need a Japanese twist? Chicken Karaage is a winner. It involves marinating bite-sized chicken pieces, then coating and frying them until golden. This dish is known for its light, crispy exterior, and tender, flavorful interior. Served with a squeeze of lemon, it’s simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Thai Curry Puffs

Thai curry puffs filled with ground chicken, potatoes, peas, onions, garlic and spices are a mouthwatering snack.
Thai Curry Puffs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Thai Curry Puffs offer a mixture of spices and creaminess enclosed in a puff pastry. They're a fantastic fusion of Thai flavors, containing chicken or vegetables mixed with curry spices. These puffs are perfect for those who crave something delicious with a hint of spice.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curry Puffs

Guacamole

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

A classic dip that never disappoints, Guacamole is always a crowd-pleaser. Made with ripe avocados, seasonings, and a squeeze of lime, it's fresh and full of flavor. It’s amazing for dipping chips or veggie sticks. Plus, it's easy to whip up last minute.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Low angle, closeup shot of spare ribs with hoisin glaze.
Instant Pot Spare Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Spare Ribs are a delicious and tender treat that falls off the bone. Cooking them in an instant pot not only speeds up the process but also ensures they're packed with flavor. They can be finished off in the oven or grill for that irresistible barbecue glaze.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Paneer Pakora

Low angle shot of a pile of paneer pakora.
Paneer Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking for a vegetarian treat? Paneer Pakora is sure to please. It consists of paneer cheese slices dipped in a spiced gram flour batter. These are succulent on the inside and crispy on the outside. They offer a fantastic taste combination that's hard to forget.
Get the Recipe: Paneer Pakora

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries on a plate with spicy ketchup for dipping.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a lighter fare that’s still full of flavor, Air Fryer Zucchini Fries are perfect. They're coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and then air-fried to achieve their fantastic texture. These fries are a healthier twist on the classic; they're unexpectedly addictive and a sure hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Low angle shot of vietnamese summer rolls with edible flowers.
Vietnamese Summer Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Vietnamese Summer Rolls are a fresh alternative to the usual fried appetizers. Packed with vegetables, proteins, and vermicelli noodles, all wrapped in rice paper, they're light and healthy. It’s a great way to start a meal on a lighter note.
Get the Recipe: Vietnamese Summer Rolls

Air Fryer Empanadas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Empanadas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Interested in a Latin American favorite? Air Fryer Empanadas are both delicious and convenient. Filled with a variety of ingredients, they’re wrapped in a pastry crust and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. These empanadas offer a crispy texture outside with a flavorful and moist inside.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

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

Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons are a stellar choice for those who love Asian flavors. These wontons are filled with a mixture of meat and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. It's a versatile appetizer that's guaranteed to impress even the picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

By on September 3rd, 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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