45 Cold Appetizers Perfect For Any Occasion

By

Kimberly Holland

Updated on June 10, 2024

Southern Living Dill Dip in a bowl to serve with a platter of vegetables and potato chips — Photo:
Frederick Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Every host has their go-to cold appetizer recipe that never disappoints. You know the one, it's easy to pull together, tastes delicious, and looks impressive on Aunt Betty's buffet table. We're always on the hunt for company-worthy recipes that involve few ingredients and little hands-on time.

Bonus points if they don't require turning on the oven. And while we're always making those dishes during the warm summer months, these recipes are great to serve anytime of year. These 45 recipes are simple, spectacular, and will give you plenty of ideas for any occasion you're hosting, from bridal showers and book clubs to dinner parties and Christmas supper.

01 of 45

Radishes With Miso-Sesame Butter

Southern Living Radishes with Miso-Sesame Butter on a platter to serve — Frederick Hardy II, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

A variety of colorful radishes add crunch and brightness to any appetizer spread. And when dipped in creamy Miso-Sesame Butter, the humble roots couldn't be tastier.

02 of 45

Dill Deviled Eggs

Southern Living Dill Deviled Eggs on a platter to serve — Frederick Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Ditch that old jar of dried dill and use some of the fresh leaves to infuse deviled eggs with a vibrant, herby flavor.

03 of 45

Spinach Dip

Southern Living Spinach Dip in a bowl to serve with pita chips — Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

There are two kinds of spinach dip: the warm and cheesy kind, and the tangy, creamy cold type like this recipe. On a hot summer day, nothing hits the spot like this refreshing dip.

04 of 45

Pesto Deviled Eggs

Southern Living Pesto Deviled Eggs on a platter to serve garnished with more basil — Greg Dupree; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

Pesto isn't just for pasta. Folded into a silky deviled egg filling, it adds a nutty, cheesy bite.

05 of 45

Deviled Egg Dip

Southern Living Deviled Egg Dip in a bowl to serve with potato chips — Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Julia Levy, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

If you don't want to deal with all the fuss of individually piping the filling for a dozen or so deviled eggs, turn to this dip instead. It has all the same flavor, but is simply stirred together.

06 of 45

French Onion Dip

French Onion Dip - Southern Living — Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Although it takes times to caramelize the onions for this dip, it's well worth the flavor they impart (and tastes much better than using dried onion seasoning mixes).

07 of 45

Fava-And-Whipped Feta Bruschetta

Southern Living Fava-and-Whipped Feta Bruschetta on a tray ready to serve — Frederick Hardy II, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

These gorgeous toasts are worth the effort of sourcing fresh, spring favas. That said, you can easily swap them out for fresh peas or asparagus if you can't find fava beans at your local market.

08 of 45

Boat Dip

Southern Living Boat Dip ready to serve with tortilla chips — Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Julia Levy, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Channel beachy vibes with this easy and tasty dip. It relies on both taco and ranch seasonings to make every bite super zesty and bright.

09 of 45

Dill Dip

Southern Living Dill Dip in a bowl to serve with a platter of vegetables and potato chips — Frederick Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley

This tangy dip made with fresh dill and crème fraîche is one of our favorite ways to kick off a party, Although you could entirely skip the garlic chips, they add such a great crunch and savory flavor to this simple appetizer.

10 of 45

Loaded Deviled Eggs

Loaded Deviled Eggs — Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn

Extra is what we would consider these eggs. The filling is loaded with bacon, Cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives, and then topped with crushed potato chips.

11 of 45

Picnic Egg Salad

Picnic Egg Salad — Greg DuPree; Prop Styling: Kay E. Clarke; Food Styling: Cat Steele

Kick off a meal with a spread that includes an assortment of salads, like this rich and creamy egg salad. It's perfect for smearing on crostini, crackers, thin baguette slices, or warm sourdough.

12 of 45

Asparagus Ribbon Crostini

Asparagus Ribbon Crostini — Greg Dupree; Food Styling: Rishon Hanners; Prop Styling: Christina Daley

For an impressive presentation, set out a platter of these crostini topped with asparagus sliced into elegant ribbons.

13 of 45

Creamy Avocado Dip

Creamy Avocado Dip — Johnny Autry; Prop and Food Styling: Charlotte L. Autry

Tortillas are always welcome at the table, especially if there are multiple types of dips for dunking. This Creamy Avocado Dip is perfect for chips, veggies, or warm pita.

14 of 45

Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

Black-eyed peas meet their match in this rich and creamy hummus. Pair with warm pita, crackers, or sliced veggies.

15 of 45

Spinach And Vidalia Dip

Spinach-and-Vidalia Dip — GREG DUPREE STYLING: CAROLINE M. CUNNINGHAM

If you love spinach dip (who doesn't?), then pair it with onions for a robust and can't-stop-dunking dip.

16 of 45

Tex-Mex Deviled Eggs

Southern Living Tex Mex Deviled Eggs on a blue surface — Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Matthew Gleason

This riff on a classic deviled egg gets a kick from the combo of chorizo and hot sauce. The gorgeous fresh toppings are for more than just looks too; the avocado adds creamy richness, and the cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous bite.

17 of 45

Black Bean And Corn Salsa

black bean and corn salsa on a wooden cutting board — Photographer: Jen Causey, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely, Food Stylist: Ana Kelly

Skip the store-bought salsa and make a homemade version with corn, black beans, and fresh tomatoes. Serve with chips for dipping or scoop on top of mini tacos.

18 of 45

Spicy Strawberry Goat Cheese Crostini

Spicy Strawberry-Goat Cheese Crostini — Antonis Achilleos; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Christine Keely

Bright, fresh, and flavorful. Strawberries and goat cheese make the best seasonal mashup for topping on crackers or toasted baguettes.

19 of 45

Caesar Salad Bites

Caesar Salad Bites — Photo: Jennifer Davick/Prop Styling: Lydia DeGaris Pursell/Food Styling: Marian Cooper Cairns

Party food is always more fun when forks are not required. These easy to plate and enjoy greens turn a salad into a fancy bite-size treat.

20 of 45

Basic Pimiento Cheese

Southern Living Basic Pimento Cheese in a bowl to serve with crackers and vegetables — Fred Hardy; Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey; Prop Stylist: Caleb Clarke

No matter the season or occasion, a classic pimiento cheese spread is always a happy surprise.

21 of 45

Texas Caviar

Texas Caviar Recipe — Photo: Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Always welcome at the table, Texas Caviar is made with the freshest ingredients (tomatoes, peppers, peas), and best served with tortilla chips.

22 of 45

Peach Salsa

Peach Salsa — Jennifer Causey; Food Styling: Loren Wood; Prop Styling: Christine Keely

Some like it hot; some like it sweet. Add those fresh-picked peaches into this tasty salsa for a bright addition to your spread.

23 of 45

Cucumber Salsa

Cucumber Salsa — Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Have you ever heard of cucumber salsa? Well, if you want to add something a little different to your party buffet, try this bright and citrusy variation.

24 of 45

Creamy Crab Dip

Creamy Crab Dip Recipe — Hector Manuel Sanchez

Want a real crowd-pleaser? Serve this creamy crab dip that's made for spreading on sliced baguettes or spooning on celery sticks.

25 of 45

Mango Salsa

Southern Living Mango Salsa in a bowl with a wooden spoon — Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Rebecca Cummins

Mango lovers will be in for a treat with this fresh and flavorful salsa that has just the right tropical twist.

26 of 45

Chicken Salad With Grapes And Pecans

Chicken Salad With Grapes and Pecans on a plate with leaf lettuce and crackers — Will Dickey

So many salads to choose from, but Southerners know the importance of the chicken salad at pretty much any social occasion. In this version, we added grapes and pecans for a unique and tasty touch.

27 of 45

Dill Pickle Dip

Southern Living Dill Pickle Dip in a bowl to serve with potato chips — Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie cox

Let's just call it pickle perfection. Chunky, sharp, and just the right amount of briny flavor makes this decadent dip the talk of the party.

28 of 45

Creamy Broccoli Slaw

Creamy Broccoli Slaw — Will Dickey; Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless; Food Stylist: Ali Ramee

Break out the Broccoli Slaw. Sure, this salad makes a great side dish, but it's also a great way to start a party.

29 of 45

Curry Chicken Salad

Southern Living Curry Chicken Salad in lettuce cups on a tray to serve — Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Christina Daley; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall

Southerners love chicken salad, and this one not only has a flavorful twist (yes, that's curry), but also a sweet story from our Travel & Culture Editor.

30 of 45

Ham Cheese Ball

Southern Living Ham Cheese Ball — Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely

Love a cheese ball? Of course we do. Now it's time to try our fan-favorite Ham Cheese Ball that brings together a magical combination of smoky cheeses, ham, pecans, and fresh herbs.

31 of 45

Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Southern Living Cucumber Tea Sandwiches on serving platter — Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

While they are often considered the ideal treat for luncheons and showers (and they really are), they are also a light and tasty option for pre-dinner nibbles or cookouts.

32 of 45

Watergate Salad

Watergate Salad — Alison Miksch; Food Stylist: Karen Rankin; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Call it a comeback. This Watergate Salad is a retro recipe that will have guests sharing the first time they ever tried a spoonful of pistachio fluff.

33 of 45

Pear Salad

Pear Salad on a blue plate — Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

Want to wow friends and family? Make them Pear Salad, a dish guaranteed to bring back tasty memories.

34 of 45

Carrot Raisin Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad — Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

For a little something colorful and tasty for the table, add this carrot salad into your rotation. The juicy pineapple and plump raisins add a sweet touch.

35 of 45

Quick-Pickle Cucumbers And Onions

Southern Living Quick Pickle Cucumber and Onions in a jar — Fred Hardy; Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey; Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood

This recipe has long been a summer staple in the South, and it's a nice option for serving with an assortment of nuts and cheeses.

36 of 45

Ham Salad

Cheese Puffs with Ham Salad — Alison Miksch; Prop Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller; Food Styling: Torie Cox

Old-fashioned ham salad never goes out of style. Make mini sandwiches or smear it on an assortment of toasted baguettes and crackers.

37 of 45

Heirloom Tomato-Cracker Salad

Heirloom Tomato-Cracker Salad — Antonis Achilleos; Food Styling: Ali Ramee; Prop Styling: Christine Keely

There are millions of ways to serve tomatoes, and this recipe is the one the Southern Living Test Kitchen declares is "heavenly." Gorgeous heirloom tomatoes are dressed up with fresh herbs, sweet corn, and garlicky crisped crackers.

38 of 45

Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs

Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs — Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Melissa Gray; Prop Styling: Ginny Branch

Make these gorgeous Beet Pickled Eggs for your next get-together. The pink comes from a special overnight beet juice and vinegar combination that steals the show.

39 of 45

Egg Salad

Southern Living Egg Salad in a bowl to serve — Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey

There are many ways to serve egg salad, and this recipe just might be the easiest. Serve it on an assortment of breads, from pumpernickel to sourdough, to offer guests plenty of tasty options.

40 of 45

Tomato Tea Sandwiches

Tomato Tea Sandwiches — Greg DuPree; Prop Styling: Kay E. Clarke; Food Styling: Cat Steele

While the tomato sandwich is a classic summertime sandwich, it's always in season in our books. This recipe turns the Southern favorite into a tea sandwich layered with crunchy red onion.

41 of 45

Peel And Eat Shrimp

Southern Living Peel 'N' Eat Shrimp on a platter to serve with dipping sauce and lemon halves — Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer

Peel and eat shrimp scream summertime, but we enjoy them whenever there's a good opportunity. This recipe jazzes things up with a combo of Old Bay seasoning and pickling spice, infusing the shrimp with tons of flavor. Serve them chilled and prepare to get a little messy.

42 of 45

Chunky Guacamole

Chunky Guacamole — Photography: Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

If you've only got 10 minutes before guests arrive, this homemade guacamole is the move. Aside from avocados, we throw in grape tomatoes, chopped red onions, and cilantro for a robust, can't-be-beat dip.

43 of 45

No Stuff Deviled Eggs

No-Stuff Deviled Eggs — Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Melissa Gray; Prop Styling: Ginny Branch

Everything tastes a little bit better when Ritz are involved. This appetizer starts with the buttery cracker and is then topped with sliced hard boiled eggs. It's simple to make and even easier to enjoy.

44 of 45

Cherry Tomato Capreee Salad

Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad — Hector Manuel Sanchez; Prop Styling: Lydia Pursell; Food Styling: Toni Brogan

Tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella cheese is made even more beautiful with red, yellow, and orange cherry tomatoes tossed in a simple vinaigrette.

45 of 45

Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp

Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp — Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely

A bottle of Bloody Mary mix acts as the marinade in this shrimp recipe, imparting tang, spice, and savory depth to the seafood.

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