Appetizers are usually synonymous to “easy.” Even its French equivalent term, hors d’ouvres, demonstrates this characteristic. Its literal translation is “outside the work” of the main meal, so that means appetizers should not be as complicated since it’s not functioning as the main dish. It should not be too heavy and filling.

Cold cuts and cheese are old reliables if you’re entertaining at home. They are easy appetizer recipes you can whip up in less time so you can focus on the good company and conversation. Just arrange them in an attractive platter, set them near where people congregate, partner them with a good wine to sip and you’ve done your part as a good host.

Consider what makes cold cuts and cheese an easy appetizer recipe: they have minimal preparation time, short ingredient list, easy to arrange on a platter, and easy to eat. Appetizers that can be easily prepared include dips, crudités (sliced raw vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and celery), canapés (open-faced sandwiches), and even some miniature versions of simple salads.

Dips can be made using different bases (mayonnaise, soft cheeses, sour cream, and yogurt), which becomes a platform for an endless variety of flavors. Here, spinach contributes both a vibrant colour and a fresh flavor to the dip. Serve the dip with crudités, crackers, tortilla chips and toasted bread. Its earthier cousin is the salsa, here made with black bean and corn and fresh peaches. Partner the salsa with the classic guacamole, made from avocados, and you have yourself a delicious and easy appetizer.

To help you choose the best easy appetizer recipe, tie it up with your party theme (Mexican, Italian, Chinese) or favorite ingredient then plan the preparation accordingly. Appetizers can be prepared ahead and refrigerated until the day of the party.