Here are some easy summer appetizers that are quick to prepare. Summer is a great time for entertaining at all kinds of events from 4th of July parties, family functions, graduations, to just relaxing and spending time with your friends. These quick and flavorful appetizers are perfect summer party recipes and will make all your get-togethers easy, delicious, and fun.
Fruity Salsa Dip: Take one-half cup diced of each of the following and combine in a bowl: fresh or frozen (thawed and drained) peaches, jicama (peeled), celery, red onion, and tomatoes. Add fresh squeezed lemon juice to taste and toss again to combine. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for an hour and serve with your favorite chips for dipping.
Bacon Shrimp Cocktail: In a bowl combine cooked, shelled shrimp (cut into chunks), some thinly sliced scallions, a couple of slices of crispy cooked bacon (crumbled), some sour cream (enough to moisten), some fresh squeezed lemon juice and mix well. Serve this flavorful summer appetizer chilled in prepared baked puff pastry shells with a slice of lemon on the side.
Olive Spread Stackers: Take some crispbread crackers and spread a layer of olive tapenade on each cracker then top with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese, a couple of roasted red pepper strips, and a sprinkling of fresh chopped basil.
Ham and Cheese Roll-Up Appetizers: Take a slice of deli ham and place a thin slice of Swiss Cheese on top of the ham. Spread the cheese with a combination of sour cream and spicy mustard and a sprinkling of dried or fresh dill. Then place a thin breadstick (your favorite flavor – plain, garlic, cheese, etc.) on top of the cheese near the edge and roll up tightly.
Creamy Potato Toppers: Take small red potatoes and cut into one-quarter inch thick slices. Steam until tender but not mushy, carefully remove from steamer, and place in ice water for a few minutes to stop the cooking process. Remove from water, pat dry, and allow to cool completely, being careful to keep each slice intact (refrigerate until ready to serve). In a bowl, combine some ricotta cheese with some sour cream, a little spicy mustard, chopped fresh chives, fresh grated lemon zest, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined and chill until ready to serve. Assemble this summer appetizer at serving time by spooning a mound of cheese mixture on top of each potato slice, sprinkle a little more chopped chives on top, and place on a serving plate.
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