When the sun’s shining and friends are gathered on the patio, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a hot kitchen. That’s why I always keep a few go-to summer appetizer recipes up my sleeve—fresh, flavorful bites that are as easy to prepare as they are to devour.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just having a few girlfriends over for drinks, these light and colorful ideas will help you serve up a spread that’s every bit as fun as it is delicious.
Let’s look at ten summer appetizers and starters that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Smoked Salmon Flatbread Rolls
These pretty little flatbread spirals are filled with a smoked salmon-cream cheese spread and crisp salad, making them the perfect healthy summer appetizer.
Flavored Feta Boards
Feta takes center stage here, whipped into a creamy dip, spread on three different boards, and topped three ways: with smoked salmon and chives, sun-dried tomato and green onion, and a bright mix of capsicum and red onion. Serve it up with pita chips or veggie sticks and watch it disappear.
Melon, Prosciutto & Mozzarella Skewers
These skewers are a timeless combo of sweet melon, savory prosciutto, and creamy mozzarella, a mix that is then drizzled with homemade balsamic glaze and topped with a little fresh basil. They’re as pretty as they are tasty.
Healthier Charcuterie Board
If you’re after something a little lighter in your charcuterie board, this version swaps out some of the richer items for fresh veggies like radishes, salad greens, and cucumber. There’s still plenty of flavor from soft cheeses, salami, pate, and olives, but it’s a little more balanced.
Melon, Cucumber, Watermelon & Feta Tetris Salad
This playful salad is like a puzzle on your plate. Cubes of juicy melon and watermelon with cucumber tucked between salty feta, this summer appetizer is tied together with a spicy peppermint vinaigrette. It’s refreshing, colorful, and perfect for hot days.
Watermelon, Cucumber & Mozzarella Skewers
This recipe features a trio of summer favorites: crisp cucumber, sweet watermelon, and soft mozzarella, a mix that gets a gourmet finish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. Light, juicy, and totally healthy.
Bruschetta Cucumber Bites
These are a garden party favorite! Fresh bruschetta mix spooned onto crisp cucumber slices, topped with a mini mozzarella ball and a slice of olive is always a winner. They’re cool, crunchy, and completely irresistible.
Watermelon & Goat’s Cheese Appetizers
These pretty little bites layer creamy goat cheese on thick watermelon slices, finished with a sprinkle of mint, crunchy walnuts, and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. They’re sweet, tangy, AND look super elegant!
Colorful Antipasto Board
A vibrant feast for the eyes and taste buds, this antipasto board brings together all the best textures and flavors: salty meats like salami and prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, sharp Italian cheeses, and juicy bites of fruit and marinated veggies. Add ciabatta and hummus, and you’ve got something for everyone.
Blueberry Crostini With Brie & Arugula
A little sweet, a little savory, these crostini are topped with warm, balsamic-glazed blueberries, creamy Brie cheese, and a peppery hit of arugula. They’re elegant little bites that’ll have guests asking for the recipe.
