When it comes to summer gatherings, parties, or just a quick snack for a hot day, cold appetizers are always a winner. And what better way to serve them than on colorful and fun-to-eat skewers? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 refreshing and flavorful cold appetizer skewer recipes that are perfect for your next outdoor bash. From classic combinations like caprese and prosciutto-wrapped melon, to international inspirations like Thai-influenced mango and shrimp, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests.
Whether you’re a fan of savory or sweet flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get skewering, and enjoy the perfect blend of freshness and flavor with every delicious bite!
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your alfresco gatherings with this colorful and flavorful take on the classic Caprese salad. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil are perfectly balanced by a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato, mozzarella slice, and basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Salad Skewers with Feta and Olives
Transform your favorite salad into a fun and easy-to-eat appetizer or snack by skewering classic Greek ingredients onto toothpicks. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, an olive, a few pieces of feta cheese, and some red onion onto each toothpick, leaving a small space at the top.
3. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or broil the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until the cheese is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes total
Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon and Mozzarella Skewers
Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and flavorful skewers, featuring the sweetness of melon, creaminess of mozzarella, and salty goodness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe melon (such as cantaloupe or honeydew), cubed
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto, thinly cut
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
– Toothpicks or skewers
Instructions:
1. Thread a melon cube, followed by a mozzarella round, and finished with a slice of prosciutto onto each toothpick.
2. Repeat the pattern until all ingredients are used up, ending each skewer with a prosciutto slice.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Shrimp and Avocado Skewers with Lime Drizzle
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinner with these vibrant and flavorful shrimp and avocado skewers, perfectly balanced by a zesty lime drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread shrimp, avocado, and red bell pepper onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix lime juice with a pinch of salt to create the drizzle.
6. Serve skewers immediately, drizzled with lime sauce and garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cucumber and Smoked Salmon Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these elegant cucumber and smoked salmon bites, perfect for a light and flavorful start to any meal. The creamy cheese and tangy dill complement the tender salmon and crunchy cucumber beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 crackers or toasted baguette slices
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and chopped dill.
2. Top each cucumber round with a dollop of the cream cheese mixture, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
3. Place a piece of flaked smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready in just a few minutes.
Watermelon and Feta Mint Skewers
Perfect for hot summer days, these sweet and savory skewers combine the freshness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese and a hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 small seedless watermelon (about 2 lbs), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread watermelon, feta, and mint onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or broil for 2-3 minutes per side, until the watermelon is slightly charred and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Antipasto Skewers with Italian Meats and Cheese
Start your meal off right with these colorful and flavorful antipasto skewers, featuring a mix of Italian meats and cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed olives (such as Kalamata, green, and black)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 8 oz salami, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls, cut into quarters
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a few olives, cherry tomatoes, prosciutto, salami, and mozzarella onto each skewer.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meats are heated through.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asian-Inspired Chicken Satay Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and aromatic chicken satay skewers, infused with the warm spices of Asia. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnished with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Bruschetta Skewers with Tomato and Basil
Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful skewers, featuring sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy bread. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 12-15 pieces)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese balls or shredded mozzarella for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a bread cube, cherry tomato half, and basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the skewers and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm with mozzarella cheese balls or shredded mozzarella, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tropical Fruit and Coconut Skewers
Transform your next barbecue or potluck into a tropical getaway with these colorful and delicious skewers, featuring a mix of juicy fruits and creamy coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, and mango)
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 10 bamboo skewers
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces, leaving a small portion at the top of each piece intact (for easy threading).
3. In a bowl, mix together the shredded coconut and honey until well combined.
4. Thread a piece of fruit onto each skewer, followed by a spoonful of the coconut mixture, then another piece of fruit, and finally a small amount of coconut on top.
5. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, leaving about 1 inch of space at the end of each skewer.
6. Brush the tops with lime juice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are perfect for serving fresh off the grill or as a colorful snack.
Beef and Blue Cheese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and elegant appetizer or snack that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory richness of beef and blue cheese. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cooked ground beef (cooled)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cooled ground beef and crumbled blue cheese.
3. Stuff each cherry tomato half with the beef-blue cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the tomatoes.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Hummus and Veggie Skewers
Bring the Mediterranean coast to your table with this easy-to-make recipe that combines creamy hummus with colorful veggie skewers.
Ingredients:
For the Hummus:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Veggie Skewers:
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine hummus ingredients and blend until smooth.
3. Thread veggies onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with salt.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hummus with veggie skewers.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Tuna and Avocado Skewers
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful and refreshing skewers, perfect for a summer gathering or quick snack. A fusion of spicy tuna, creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber creates a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cucumber, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers or toothpicks
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix tuna with cilantro, jalapeño, and a pinch of salt.
3. Alternate threading tuna mixture, avocado chunks, and cucumber slices onto each skewer.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with lemon juice (optional).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until the tuna is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Sundried Tomato Skewers
Add a burst of flavor to your outdoor gatherings with these colorful skewers, featuring juicy chicken, rich pesto, and sweet sundried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto and olive oil. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Alternate threading chicken, sundried tomatoes, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Sweet and Savory Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this easy-to-make appetizer or snack. Crispy bacon, sticky dates, and creamy goat cheese come together in a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each date with a piece, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with goat cheese.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Caprese Skewers with Cherry Tomatoes
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil. They’re easy to make and ideal for parties, appetizers, or snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Halloumi and Grape Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this simple yet impressive appetizer or snack. The combination of grilled halloumi cheese, juicy grapes, and fresh mint is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1 cup of red and green grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi cheese into 1-inch cubes.
3. Thread a piece of cheese, followed by a grape half and a sprig of mint onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each component.
4. Brush the skewers with salt and place them on the grill.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is golden brown and the grapes are slightly caramelized.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Herbed Cream Cheese and Cucumber Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a light and flavorful snack or appetizer. A blend of creamy cream cheese, fresh herbs, and crunchy cucumbers come together to create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Spread a small amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Sprinkle with additional parsley and dill if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready to go straight from your kitchen.
Thai-Inspired Mango and Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your BBQ game with these sweet and savory skewers that blend the flavors of Thailand with the freshness of mango. Perfect for a summer gathering or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together curry paste, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
3. Thread mango chunks and shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with salt.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Balsamic Strawberry and Mozzarella Skewers
Elevate your appetizer game with these Balsamic Strawberry and Mozzarella Skewers, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch. Fresh strawberries and creamy mozzarella are paired with tangy balsamic glaze, all wrapped up in crispy prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Alternate threading strawberries and mozzarella onto skewers.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the fruit and cheese, letting it drizzle off the ends of the skewers.
4. Wrap a piece of prosciutto around each skewer, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 refreshing cold appetizer skewer recipes that are perfect for any gathering or celebration! From classic Caprese and Greek Salad Skewers to unique combinations like Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon and Mozzarella, there’s something for everyone. Savor flavors from around the world with Asian-Inspired Chicken Satay, Mediterranean Hummus and Veggie, and Thai-Inspired Mango and Shrimp Skewers. And don’t miss sweet and savory bites like Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Balsamic Strawberry and Mozzarella. These easy-to-make skewers are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
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