In this post, you will find 80+ healthy party appetizers created by the best food bloggers. The list includes popular party food recipes for adults and kids such as finger foods and small bites, meatballs, chicken wings, and wing alternatives, dips and spreads, hummus, cheese boards, and more!
Why Prepare Healthy Party Appetizers?
We do our best to eat healthy during the week but when the weekend or a holiday comes around we often turn to unhealthy foods only to regret it the next day.
But it doesn’t have to be that way! It’s absolutely possible to prepare light healthy party foods that taste delicious. Your guests will ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ and beg you for the recipe.
We all love a good get-together but organizing and hosting a party can be quite time-consuming. And providing healthy foods for your guests requires some planning. This is why I’ve compiled this list of the best healthy party appetizer recipes.
Whatever your diet or taste preference, I am sure you will find new recipes on this list that you will want to make for your next party or gathering.
What are Different Types of Parties to Serve Healthy Appetizers for?
These healthy party appetizer recipes look so good that I wouldn’t wait for a special occasion to try them. But if you are still looking for a reason, here is a list of party ideas you can make them for:
- baby shower;
- birthday party;
- bridal shower;
- Christmas party;
- cocktail party;
- game night with friends;
- Halloween party;
- holiday party;
- housewarming party;
- New Year’s Eve party;
- Oscar party;
- outdoor or garden party;
- Superbowl party;
- themed party.
What are Good Healthy Appetizers for A Party?
There are hundreds of different healthy appetizers you can make for a party. Here are a few examples:
- soups or salads served in small bowls;
- deviled eggs;
- stuffed mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, etc;
- lettuce cups;
- crostini and toasts;
- meatballs;
- chicken wings and cauliflower “wings”;
- cucumber rolls;
- root vegetable or kale chips;
- marinated olives;
- hummus;
- spiced nuts;
- guacamole;
- and more!
80+ Healthy Party Appetizers, Dips, and Spreads
On this list, you will find recipes for many popular appetizers including finger foods & small bites, meatballs, wings & wing alternatives, crostini & toasts, dips & spreads, hummus, snack boards, and more!
To get the recipe you would like to check out, click the green rectangular "Get Recipe" button located under each recipe description.
When you click the button, a new window will open where you will find the recipe and full instructions on how to make it.
The recipes are listed in the following order:
1. Finger Foods and Small Bites (19 recipes);
2. Meatballs (10 recipes);
3. Chicken Wings and Cauliflower Wing Alternatives (8 recipes);
4. Crostini, Toasts, Pita Bites, Bruschetta, etc (12 recipes).;
5. Dips and Spreads (12 recipes);
6. Hummus (10 recipes);
7. Cheese boards (12 recipes).
1. Creative Finger Foods and Small Bites (19 Recipes)
Finger foods are one-bite appetizers that are convenient to grab with your fingers and look pretty displayed on the party table.
You can make a few or make just one and complement it with foods you don't need to spend time preparing such fruits, nuts, sliced vegetables, and cheese.
Apricots with Basil-Cream Cheese and Almonds
These apricot bites are sweet and satisfying. They are no-cook which makes them perfect for summer entertaining. They can also be made a day before. Just bring them to room temperature, and drizzle with honey before serving.
Avocado Deviled Eggs
These no mayo deviled eggs are going to be the big hit of your Easter brunch or summertime barbecues! The creamy goodness of the avocado takes them to a whole new level. And the perfect mix of herbs and seasoning gives these eggs a flavor that will keep your guests coming back for more!
Bacon and Egg Cucumber Bites
These cute cucumber bites are easy to make for a big crowd or just one. They are packed full of protein and flavor. The best part is that you can hard-boil the eggs in advance and then prepare and serve them in less than 10 minutes.
Baked Potato Roses
Ready for something creative? Then these baked potato roses are for you! Thinly sliced potato stacks rolled into rose shapes that are then baked in muffin trays making it look like potato roses. If there is a way to present baked potato on a party table in a beautiful way, this is it!
Baked Stuffed Zucchini Flowers or Squash Blossoms
Zucchini flowers are at their peak from late spring all the way through to fall. So, if this is the time when you are organizing your party, make sure to try this healthy vegetarian starter. You won't be disappointed.
Chicken & Mozzarella Stuffed Baby Peppers
If you are looking for a chicken based appetizer other than chicken wings, this recipe is for you. All you need are some adorable mini peppers, cooked chicken, and mozzarella cheese. The peppers cook quickly under the broiler so you can get back to having fun asap.
Cold Avocado Soup - Ready in 3 Minutes!
Entertaining during a heat wave? Make this cold avocado soup and serve it as an appetizer in small bowls garnished with thin lime slices and cilantro. You will have all of it ready in just a few minutes and you don't even have turn on the oven.
Crispy Vegetable Fritters with Avocado Yogurt Sauce
These delicious crispy vegetable fritters are packed with "good-for-you" broccoli, carrots and zucchini. And as a bonus, you can dip each appetizer fritter into the creamy avocado yogurt sauce.
Easy Cranberry Basil Shrimp Cocktail
This shrimp cocktail is made with a refreshing cranberry basil cocktail sauce. This healthy appetizer is gluten free, paleo, low carb and easy to make.
Easy Zucchini Tots
These budget-friendly zucchini bites are a great way to sneak some veggies onto your party table. They are perfect to have on hand when kids are around and you need a healthy kid-approved appetizer.
Endive with Pear and Blue Cheese
This elegant appetizer is perfect for any special event or gathering. The crisp endive pairs well with blue cheese, walnuts, and pears. This recipe is vegetarian and gluten free.
Fresh Vegan Spring Rolls
These homemade spring rolls are served with delicious peanut sauce. They are loaded with veggies and make a colorful and versatile healthy appetizer everybody will love! Naturally gluten-free, raw and low carb.
Gluten-Free Savory Snack Bites
These dense savory snack bites are flavored with lots of herbs and spices. They’re delicious on their own or you can also serve them with a healthy spread or dip.
Smoky Shrimp With Guacamole
Who said that you always have to serve tortilla chips with your guacamole? These smoky cumin dusted shrimp pair extremely well with the citrusy guacamole for a classy creative appetizer.
Spicy Nacho Potato Bites
Who knew that roasted potato medallions and chunky homemade guacamole were made for each other? And when you top them off with some melted vegan cheese and and fresh vegetables you get a perfect vegan appetizer.
Spinach and Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushroom Appetizers
These stuffed mushrooms are made with cheese, spinach or kale. They taste buttery and garlicky at the same time. And the best part is that they are very easy to make following the detailed instructions provided in the post.
Spiced Pumpkin Appetizer Soup
This appetizer soup is perfect for entertaining during the holiday season. The soup is served in cute small ramekins and garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds. It's very easy to make and ready in just a few minutes.
Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms
These addictive vegan stuffed mushrooms are filled with dreamy cashew cream cheese, smoky tempeh bacon, and chives. Great for a party but you can absolutely make a meal of them too!
Vegetarian Stuffed Tomatoes with Feta and Mushrooms
These stuffed tomatoes will be the centerpiece of your party table. The ripe tomatoes are first generously stuffed with mushrooms, feta, spinach, and garlic and then gently baked to perfection. They make a light but filling appetizer for summer and fall when tomatoes are in season.
2. Meatballs for Meat Lovers (10 Recipes)
Meatballs are a very popular party appetizer because they are quite filling. If you already have a favorite meatball recipe, use it! Just make the meatballs smaller and stick a toothpick in each meatball to make them easier to serve and eat.
If you would like to try something new, here are a few meatball recipes for you to choose from.
Air Fryer Meatballs
If you own the trendy kitchen appliance why not put it to good use and make some beef meatballs. This Scandinavian meatballs recipe is worth trying and your efforts will be appreciated by your guests.
Asian Spiced Quinoa Meatballs with Orange Sauce
These Asian spiced quinoa meatballs with orange sauce are packed with bold savory flavors. Fresh ginger, garlic, spicy green serrano peppers, Asian five spice and Sriracha hot chili sauce make these meatballs addicting.
Healthy Turkey Meatballs in Red Pepper Sauce
These turkey meatballs are first baked in the oven and then mixed with the rich red pepper sauce. The sauce is so delicious that your guests might ask you permission to lick the bowl after the meatballs are finished.
Italian Baked Turkey Meatballs
These juicy Italian turkey meatballs are made with lean ground turkey and are baked instead of fried. This easy turkey meatball recipe is delicious on pasta, in meatball subs, and makes a great appetizer when served alongside the marinara sauce.
Keftedes – Greek Meatballs
These meatballs are crispy on the outside and super juicy inside. Made with lean turkey mince, red onion, feta, wholemeal breadcrumbs, mint, and oregano. Serve as appetizer or mezze spread with tzatziki and Greek salad or turn into a meal.
Low Carb Keto Meatballs
Looking for a low carb keto meatball recipe? Well, you can stop right here because these meatballs are tender, flavorful, and use minimal ingredients. In addition, you are going to love how quickly these keto meatballs pull together.
No Breadcrumbs Turkey Meatballs
Breadcrumbs are a popular ingredient in meatballs. But sometimes you just need to make meatballs without them. Luckily, you don't need to worry because now you have this recipe. And the best part is that nobody will notice that these meatballs are made without breadcrumbs.
Paleo Italian Meatballs
These meatballs are gluten, dairy, and egg free. They can be made using only ground beef or half ground beef & half turkey. You can dress them up fancy with some chopped basil or Italian parsley for a perfect paleo appetizer.
Paleo Sausage Balls
Made with chorizo, sweet potato, and coconut flour, these Paleo Sausage Balls are absolutely delicious and the most perfect appetizer for any party. This recipe is also quite easy to make.
Thai Turkey Meatballs
Traditional meatballs are fab and all but why not try something new? These turkey meatballs are infused with Thai flavors and are impossible to resist. You can make them together with your kids for a fun family activity.
3. Chicken Wings and Cauliflower Wing Alternatives (8 Recipes)
Chicken wings are another party favorite that is quite easy to make.
Cauliflower "wings" are a popular chicken wing alternative that's much loved by vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Cauliflower "wings" look similar to chicken wings and can be made in a variety of flavors. They are much more convenient to eat at a party because you don't have to worry about messing with the bones.
Cauliflower and Carrot "Wings"
These Cauliflower and Carrot “Wings” are filling and satisfying. With the mandatory cashew dipping sauce and the classic carrot and celery sticks on the side, they make a perfect appetizer. And as a bonus, they are vegan and gluten free.
Crispy and Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Sometimes one simple recipe is all you need to make everyone's favorite dish. These air fryer chicken wings are made using a few simple ingredients. The wings are nice a crispy and you don't need to use any oil.
Crispy Chicken Wings with Green Curry Yogurt Dip
The cool and tangy flavor of Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with the spicy green curry. And the super crispy chicken wings are pretty hard to beat when they are served with such a flavorful dip.
Lime and Lemongrass Chicken Nibbles
If you are looking for something new and creative this flavor combination is for you! These chicken nibbles are infused with the amazing flavors of lime and lemongrass. This recipe is gluten and dairy free.
Spicy Korean Chicken Wings
Oven baked wings covered in a delicious sauce made with garlic, ginger, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). Don't be afraid to try this recipe because the instructions are very thorough.
Strawberry Jalapeno Chicken Wings
These marinated grilled chicken wings are made using only 3 simple ingredients! The wings turn out crisp yet tender and the bold sweet and spicy glaze can become addictive.
Sweet & Spicy Cauliflower Bites - 2 Ways
Two recipes in one! You can make sriracha cauliflower bites or BBQ gochujang cauliflower bites, one hot, one mild[er]. Both with that irresistible sweet-and-spicy combo. It’s party finger food that’s also a sneaky way to get in an extra serving of vegetables!
Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings
These spicy cauliflower "wings" are baked not fried. They are super crispy and addicting. These "wings" are easy to make and perfect for the game day or any day! These perfect bites of deliciousness are sure to impress vegetarians and meat lovers alike. This recipe is gluten-free.
4. Crostini, Toasts, Pita Bites, Bruschetta, ETC. (12 Recipes)
Small bites served on toasted pieces of bread are perfect for entertaining. They are quite easy to make and you can easily change up the flavors by using different toppings.
Use thin slices of wholemeal bread as a crostini base to reduce the number of carbs.
Balsamic Roasted Cranberries (In A Toaster Oven)
This pretty appetizer is sweet, tart and tangy! Treat your guests to a delicious holiday relish made in a toaster oven. And the best part is that it's very easy to make!
Goat Cheese and Mushroom Crostini
These crostini are fun and easy to prepare. They taste even better if you garnish them with some fresh herbs. Perfect for outdoor entertainment.
Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini with Beets
Goat cheese and arugula are a match made in heaven. And when you add some roasted beets to the mix, you get a perfect savory appetizer that will please even the picky guests.
Herbed Ricotta Toast with Sautéed Tomatoes
Combine the creamy ricotta cheese infused with aromatic fresh herbs and the juicy sauteed tomatoes to create a beautiful appetizer that is guaranteed to impress your guests.
Kale Pesto Crostini
The kale pesto is made with garlic, pumpkin seeds, and red pepper flakes. So this delicious party appetizer doesn't sacrifice on taste while packing lots of healthy nutrients.
Pesto and Burst Tomato Crostini with Balsamic Glaze Drizzle
Fresh and flavorful basil pesto, naturally sweet grape tomatoes, and the addictive balsamic glaze are really all you need to create a perfect appetizer. These crostini are very easy and quick to make.
Pistachio, Feta and Pomegranate Crostini Recipe
Top off the crusty baked bread with roasted nutty pistachios, salted feta, and sweet ruby red pomegranate and you will get an elegant appetizer that can be served for any occasion. And if you want fewer carbs, you can use lettuce cups instead of bread.
Roasted Garlic Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Canapé
This vegetarian appetizer is to be shared with wine and among friends. Made with garlic, sundered tomatoes and basil, this canapé offers varied textures and bold flavors. Perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Smoked Salmon Appetizer with Goat Cheese & Avocado
These perfect smoked salmon bites can be whipped up in under 15 minutes, which makes it perfect for weekend eats or holiday entertaining. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you could totally impress your guests without spending countless hours in the kitchen.
Strawberry Basil Bruschetta Recipe
This delicious summer appetizer is topped with creamy goat cheese and a tangy sweet strawberry basil topping drizzled with balsamic reduction sauce. The toasted bruschetta will not last long on your party table!
Veggie Pita Pizza Bites and The Casual Veggie Cookbook
These baked mini pitas are topped with ricotta, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach and much more! Drizzle them with balsamic vinegar and before you know it, these cute “pizza bites” will disappear from the table.
White Bean Crostini with Tomato
This easy appetizer is made using simple pantry ingredients that most people always have on hand. The white bean dip comes together in a flash and can also be prepared in advance.
5. Dips and Spreads (12 Recipes)
Dips and spreads are usually quite easy to whip up. So you can prepare a few and serve them together with cut up veggies and healthy homemade or store-bought crackers.
Depending on the consistency, you can also spread them on small pieces of bread to make crostini. Top them off with olive, cherry tomato or a cucumber slice and sprinkle with some chopped herbs for an easy healthy party appetizer.
Butternut Squash-Chipotle Dip
Do you have some leftover roasted butternut squash? Then you can make this sweet and spicy dip. It will be a great addition to your holiday dinner menu and you can use it to make a sandwich the next day.
Copycat Chipotle Guacamole Recipe
Sometimes all you need is something foolproof and familiar. This guacamole has a smooth and creamy texture. It’s perfect with tortilla chips, on tacos, or whatever you like to serve with guacamole.
Creamy Baba Ganoush - a Healthy Eggplant Dip
Baba ganoush is a popular eggplant dip that has a mild flavor with a hint of tahini, lemon, and garlic. It's perfect served as an appetizer at a dinner party and also makes for a delicious healthy snack. It's very easy to make following the detailed instructions provided in the blog post.
Creamy Red Pepper Cashew Dip
This creamy dip is vegan, dairy free, oil free, gluten free and is made with only raw ingredients. Darn tasty, creamy, almost cheesy, nacho-like and it takes only 10 minutes to make! I say "yes, please!"
Creamy White Bean Dip
This budget-friendly dip comes together in a pinch! Made from creamy white beans, garlic, and lemon, it also doubles as a creamy spread for sandwiches, pizza, and more. This recipe is vegan & gluten free.
Eggplant Walnut Dip
Roasted eggplant, toasted walnuts, and tahini are blended together for a savory appetizer. Serve it topped with crumbled feta cheese, olives, and chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
Curry Pumpkin Dip (Savory Pumpkin Dip)
This savory pumpkin dip is spiced with curry, ginger, and allspice. It can be served warm or cold with pita chips or fresh cut veggies. Perfect for the holiday season or whenever you crave some pumpkin!
Egyptian Beetroot Dip
This colorful Egyptian Beetroot Dip is spiced with cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, which were all well-loved spices in ancient Egypt. The dip is made using simple ingredients which most people usually have on hand in their fridge and pantry.
Olive Tapenade
Olive tapenade is a popular French appetizer made of pureed olives, capers, and olive oil. It comes together in a flash following the detailed instructions and video provided in the blog post.
Roasted Eggplant and Feta Dip
This Mediterranean inspired roasted eggplant dip is infused with the rich flavors of roasted red pepper and garlic. You can vary the texture of the dip by making it creamy or chunky depending on your preference.
Spicy Red Pepper Feta Dip
This healthy dip is made with just six simple ingredients. It gets the flavor boost from the generous amount of garlic, roasted red pepper, and Cayenne pepper. Greek yogurt, feta and, cannellini beans make the dip super smooth and creamy.
Spinach Artichoke Dip {Vegan}
Spinach Artichoke Dip made lighter! This vegan take on the popular classic tastes just like the original but without the dairy. In addition, it doesn't really take very long to whip up a butch of this delicious dip.
6. Creative Hummus Flavors (10 Recipes)
Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern spread made with chickpeas (a.k.a garbanzo beans) and tahini (a.k.a. sesame seed paste). Served with sliced vegetables and wholemeal crackers, hummus makes a perfect healthy party appetizer.
Hummus is very easy and quick to make and very filling. It's also fun to experiment with different flavor combinations.
Grilled Eggplant and Olive Hummus
The marinated, charred and caramelized eggplant slices add a unique flavor to the hummus. And you only need a few tablespoons of sour cream to make this easy appetizer smooth and creamy.
Easy Roasted Hatch Chile Spicy Hummus
This creamy fire roasted hatch chile hummus is the ultimate appetizer for those who like it hot! It's also quite easy to make following the excellent instructions, which includes a video, provided in the blog post.
Hummus with Basil-Cilantro Oil
This classic hummus gets a flavor boost from the herbed olive oil infused with basil, cilantro, garlic, and jalapeno seeds. This healthy appetizer is so addictive that, if you are not careful, you might eat it all by yourself before your guests arrive.
Indian Curry Hummus
This hummus is for curry lovers. It's is made from blended chana masala seasoned chickpeas, with a hint of tomato, and lots of garlic, cilantro, and ginger. If you’re looking for a flavor-packed hummus, you won't go wrong with this recipe.
Orange Hummus Recipe
If you are open to trying new flavor combinations, this refreshing orange hummus is for you. And as a bonus, this orange hummus will look very pretty on your party table thanks to the bright yellow color.
Roasted Cauliflower White Bean Hummus
So, the sneaky cauliflower has made its way into the hummus world. If you want to try a lighter take on hummus, this recipe is for you. Mixed with white beans, this hummus is subtle in flavor and perfect with your favorite dippers!
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted red pepper, anyone? Yes, please! The more, the better. And because roasted red pepper makes everything taste better, you'll get a delicious, creamy, flavorful dip, perfect for holiday entertaining.
Roasted Rutabaga Hummus Recipe
Have you ever tried roasted rutabaga hummus? This hummus is fluffy and creamy. The sweetness of the rutabaga plays very well with the heat of the raw garlic and the tang of the lemon. And if you have some rutabaga left, you can serve this hummus with raw rutabaga "chips".
Smoky Red Lentil Hummus Recipe
Even though this lentil dip is not a true hummus because the recipe doesn’t include chickpeas or Tahini. The texture and vibe, however, are very similar to it. Perfect for the time when you don't have any chickpeas on hand but would like to make hummus.
Sweet Potato Hummus
Another creative hummus flavor combination, this time for sweet potato lovers. This hummus recipe combines the slightly sweet and savory flavor of sweet potato with fresh lemon juice for a bright flavor. A perfect dip for fall and winter.
7. Snack, Cheese and Fruit Boards, Trays and Platters (12 Recipes)
Snack and cheese boards are a convenient way to serve healthy party appetizers because they usually require little or no cooking.
But there is definitely an art to arranging them in an attractive way. Luckily, you don't have to worry about it because the posts below show you how to wow your guests with an epic cheese board.
Colorful Caprese Appetizer Tray
The classic flavor combination of the Caprese salad is always a winner. To assemble this appetizer tray, all you need are a few ingredients that are usually used for a Caprese salad such as tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, olives, fresh basil, and a good quality balsamic vinegar.
How To Make An Epic Charcuterie Board
In this post, you will learn how to make an epic cheese board in just 7 simple steps. The appearance of the board is guaranteed to wow your guests. They’ll think you spent a ton of money and time to put it together – but in actuality, you didn’t.
How to Make the Ultimate Crudité Platter
A great selection of prepared crudities makes a healthy and stunning centerpiece for a party or buffet table. Mix and match according to the seasons and your taste. Here you will find everything you need to know about making a vegan platter your guests will love to eat!
Italian Antipasto Cheese Board
An Italian antipasto cheese board? Yes, please! And a glass of red wine to go with it...This cheese board is easy to put together and holds all the delicious Italian finger foods your guests will love.
Keto and Low Carb Antipasti Platter
This colorful platter of low carb and keto friendly Italian cold cuts, cheeses, olives, and peppers will make the perfect centerpiece for your next dinner party. The platter is very easy to put together because the instructions tell you exactly how to arrange it in the most beautiful way.
Mediterranean Mezze Appetizer Platter
This vegetarian mezze appetizer plate is an assortment of all things good. You will fall in love with the delicious Mediterranean flavors and textures. Here you'll get a little bit of everything - salty, creamy, spicy , warm, cold, and crunchy. And it’s so easy to bring it together too.!
No-Cook Cold Antipasto Platter for Summer
Entertaining on a hot, humid, summer day? Want to serve something tasty but even turning on the grill is too much? Just go to the store and get all the ingredients for this no-cook cold antipasto platter!
Relish Tray Ideas - The Ultimate How to Guide
This guide to making beautiful, family-friendly, and flavorful relish trays provides creative and modern ideas for quickly putting together these unique platters for parties and special occasions. Includes detailed instructions and expert tips!
Turkish Meze Platter
Whether you’re making them for a Mediterranean themed party, or just feel like something fresh and different, these mezze recipes are the perfect combination. They can be prepared in advance and then assembled and garnished just before the gathering.
The Ultimate Hummus Plate
If you want to serve a hummus plate but not sure how to present it, look no further. This ultimate guide provides detailed step-by-step instructions on how to arrange a hummus plate in the most attractive way.
Ultimate Charcuterie Board & Homemade Sumac Pita Chips
More ideas on how to make a perfect cheese board plus the recipe for homemade sumac pita chips. Add a personal touch to the board by offering bites for all taste preferences. And making it look beautiful will take your appetizer board to the whole new level.
How To Assemble A Dessert Charcuterie Platter
And last but not least - an easy dessert platter! This is a much healthier alternative to desserts like cake, brownies, and cookies because it includes nuts and fruit. And there is chocolate too!