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As we prepare to welcome the dawn of a new year, what better way to kick off the festivities than with a mouthwatering array of appetizers?
Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering with loved ones or a lively party with friends, serving delicious appetizers sets the stage for a memorable celebration.
To help you ring in the new year in style, we’ve curated a collection of delectable appetizer recipes that are sure to impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.
From elegant seafood bites to savory vegetarian options, let’s explore these irresistible dishes that will elevate your New Year’s celebration to new heights.
15+ New Year’s Appetizers Recipes
Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to share, these recipes are sure to impress.
Don’t forget to include some traditional foods thought to bring good luck, like black-eyed peas and beef.
With these savory and tasty options, you’re sure to start the year off on the right foot.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
These Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, making them an irresistible appetizer for your New Year’s celebration.
The creamy goat cheese adds a luxurious touch to the sweet dates, while the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
- 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half crosswise
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Stuff each pitted date with a small amount of goat cheese, about 1 teaspoon.
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
With their irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, they’re sure to be a hit at your New Year’s celebration.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
These Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a fresh and vibrant appetizer option for your New Year’s party.
Layers of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves are drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze, creating a bite-sized taste of Italy that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions:
- Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto each toothpick or skewer.
- Arrange the Caprese skewers on a serving platter.
- Just before serving, drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a delightful and elegant appetizer that will add a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s celebration.
With their vibrant colors and fresh flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
Spicy Shrimp Cocktail
Kick off your New Year’s party with a bang with this Spicy Shrimp Cocktail.
Succulent shrimp are marinated in a spicy sauce, then served with a zesty cocktail sauce for dipping.
It’s a bold and flavorful appetizer that will wake up your taste buds and get the party started.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cocktail sauce, for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through.
- Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
- Serve the spicy grilled shrimp with cocktail sauce for dipping.
Spicy Shrimp Cocktail is a bold and flavorful appetizer that will add a kick to your New Year’s celebration.
With its succulent grilled shrimp and zesty cocktail sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Creamy Spinach and Cheese
These Stuffed Mushrooms with Creamy Spinach and Cheese are a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests with their elegant presentation and irresistible flavor.
Earthy mushrooms are filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and cheese, then baked to perfection.
They’re perfect for any New Year’s celebration, offering a delectable combination of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
- 12 large mushrooms, stems removed and cleaned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the cooked spinach mixture until well combined.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach and cheese mixture, mounding it slightly.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the tops of the stuffed mushrooms.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Creamy Spinach and Cheese are an elegant and flavorful appetizer that will elevate your New Year’s celebration.
With their rich and creamy filling packed into earthy mushroom caps, they’re sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
These Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce are a bite-sized delight that will add a touch of elegance to your New Year’s appetizer spread.
Tender lump crab meat is combined with flavorful seasonings and breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to golden perfection.
Served with a tangy remoulade sauce, these mini crab cakes are sure to impress your guests with their delicious flavor and crispy texture.
Ingredients:
For the Crab Cakes:
- 1 pound lump crab meat, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
For the Remoulade Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine lump crab meat, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the crab mixture into small patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- To make the remoulade sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, chopped parsley, lemon juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve the mini crab cakes warm, with the remoulade sauce on the side for dipping.
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce are a sophisticated and flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests with their delicious flavor and elegant presentation.
Perfect for any New Year’s celebration, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit with seafood lovers and partygoers alike.
Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze
Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, and Balsamic Glaze is a classic Italian appetizer that is bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, making it the perfect addition to your New Year’s celebration.
Toasted slices of baguette are topped with a mixture of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and olive oil, then finished with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze.
Simple yet elegant, this appetizer is sure to impress your guests and set the stage for a memorable evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are a refreshing and elegant appetizer option for your New Year’s celebration.
Crisp cucumber slices are topped with creamy herbed cream cheese and delicate smoked salmon, then garnished with fresh dill and capers.
They’re light, flavorful, and perfect for ringing in the new year with style.
Ingredients:
- 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- Capers for garnish
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of the herbed cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
- Top each cucumber slice with a piece of smoked salmon.
- Garnish the smoked salmon cucumber bites with capers and fresh dill sprigs.
- Arrange the bites on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are a sophisticated and flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests with their elegant presentation and delicious taste.
With their refreshing crunch and delicate balance of flavors, they’re sure to be a hit at your New Year’s celebration.
Cranberry Brie Crostini
These Cranberry Brie Crostini are a festive and indulgent appetizer that will add a touch of elegance to your New Year’s spread.
Crispy baguette slices are topped with creamy brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and a sprinkle of crunchy walnuts.
Each bite is a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, making these crostini a crowd-pleasing option for your celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 French baguette, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp.
- Top each toasted baguette slice with a piece of brie cheese.
- Spoon a small dollop of cranberry sauce on top of the brie cheese.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the cranberry sauce.
- Return the crostini to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish the cranberry brie crostini with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cranberry Brie Crostini are a delightful and elegant appetizer that will elevate your New Year’s celebration.
With their irresistible combination of creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy walnuts, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and crowd-pleasing appetizer that will add a touch of Asian-inspired flair to your New Year’s celebration.
Tender chicken meatballs are glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
They’re easy to make and perfect for serving as finger food at any party.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the chicken mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
- In a small saucepan, heat teriyaki sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
- Brush the cooked meatballs with the warm teriyaki sauce.
- Garnish the teriyaki chicken meatballs with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that will delight your guests with their savory flavor and tender texture.
Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s party or a casual gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.
Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles
These Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles are a delightful appetizer option for your New Year’s celebration, offering a perfect balance of flaky pastry, savory filling, and tangy cheese.
Spinach and feta cheese are combined with aromatic herbs and spices, then wrapped in delicate phyllo pastry and baked until golden and crispy.
These bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests with their elegant presentation and delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 10 sheets phyllo pastry, thawed
- Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean work surface and brush it lightly with melted butter.
- Place another sheet of phyllo pastry on top of the first sheet and brush it with melted butter.
- Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo pastry sheets, layering and brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Cut the stacked phyllo pastry into 3-inch strips lengthwise.
- Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling at the bottom of each strip.
- Fold one corner of the phyllo strip over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding the strip diagonally until you reach the end. Press the edges to seal.
- Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo strips and filling.
- Place the spinach and feta phyllo triangles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the triangles with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles are a delicious and elegant appetizer that will add a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s celebration.
With their crispy phyllo pastry and flavorful spinach-feta filling, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
Coconut Shrimp with Mango Salsa
These Coconut Shrimp with Mango Salsa are a tropical-inspired appetizer that will transport your taste buds to paradise as you ring in the new year.
Succulent shrimp are coated in crispy coconut flakes, then fried until golden brown and served with a refreshing mango salsa.
With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and vibrant flavors, these coconut shrimp are sure to be a hit at your New Year’s celebration.
For the Coconut Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, combine shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the coated shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the mango salsa. Stir until well combined.
- Serve the crispy coconut shrimp with the refreshing mango salsa on the side.
Coconut Shrimp with Mango Salsa is a delightful appetizer that combines the crispy texture of coconut shrimp with the tropical sweetness of mango salsa, creating a burst of flavor that’s perfect for celebrating the new year in style.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
These Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a simple yet elegant appetizer that will add a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s celebration.
Tender asparagus spears are wrapped in savory prosciutto slices, then roasted until caramelized and tender.
With their delicious flavor and elegant presentation, these bundles are sure to impress your guests and kick off the festivities on a high note.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound asparagus spears, woody ends trimmed
- 6-8 slices prosciutto
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the asparagus spears into bundles, about 4-5 spears per bundle.
- Wrap each asparagus bundle with a slice of prosciutto, covering the spears completely.
- Place the wrapped asparagus bundles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the bundles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Transfer the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus bundles to a serving platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a delicious and elegant appetizer that will impress your guests with their simplicity and flavor.
With their tender asparagus and savory prosciutto, they’re sure to be a hit at your New Year’s celebration.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
For a flavorful and healthier twist on traditional buffalo wings, try these Buffalo Cauliflower Bites.
Cauliflower florets are coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, then baked until crispy.
Serve them with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear at your New Year’s celebration!
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a batter.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until evenly coated in the batter.
- Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce and melted butter.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and drizzle the buffalo sauce mixture over the top, tossing to coat evenly.
- Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve the Buffalo Cauliflower Bites hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings, perfect for your New Year’s celebration.
With their crispy texture and spicy buffalo sauce, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any party.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
These Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are an elegant and indulgent appetizer that will impress your guests at your New Year’s gathering.
Plump mushroom caps are filled with a creamy mixture of crab meat, cream cheese, herbs, and spices, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Serve them warm for a delicious start to your celebration.
Ingredients:
- 24 large mushrooms, stems removed
- 8 ounces crab meat, drained and flaked
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the crab mixture into each mushroom cap, mounding it slightly.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the stuffed mushrooms with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a decadent and flavorful appetizer that will add a touch of luxury to your New Year’s celebration.
With their creamy crab filling and savory mushroom caps, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
Mediterranean Hummus Platter
Create a vibrant and flavorful appetizer spread with this Mediterranean Hummus Platter.
Creamy homemade hummus is served alongside an array of colorful and tasty accompaniments, including fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and pita bread.
It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for your New Year’s gathering, offering a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy every palate.
Ingredients:
For the Hummus:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water, as needed
For the Platter:
- Assorted fresh vegetables (such as carrots, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers)
- Kalamata olives
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Pita bread, sliced into wedges
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Arrange the hummus bowl on a large platter.
- Surround the hummus with assorted fresh vegetables, kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced pita bread.
- Garnish the platter with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Serve the Mediterranean Hummus Platter at your New Year’s celebration and enjoy!
Mediterranean Hummus Platter offers a delicious and colorful spread that will delight your guests and kick off your New Year’s celebration in style.
With its creamy homemade hummus and an assortment of tasty accompaniments, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Conclusion
As you prepare to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, let these delectable appetizer recipes be the highlight of your celebration.
Whether you prefer savory bacon-wrapped dates, refreshing Caprese skewers, or spicy shrimp cocktail, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So gather your loved ones, raise a glass, and toast to a new year filled with joy, prosperity, and unforgettable culinary experiences.
Happy New Year!