But that doesn’t mean the food has to be fancy.
Some of the bestappetizersare the simple ones that come off like you’re not trying too hard.
The next time you’re in panic mode, take a breath and try one of these last-minute appetizers.

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Serve extra toppings on the side so guests can customize to their liking.
Give watermelon a punch or heat and a nice a nice vinegary bite with a drizzle of pepper sauce.
Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.

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Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip
This one is for serious cheese lovers.
Prosciutto, dried figs, and smoked almonds give this quick snack a decidedly gourmet spin.
Tomato-Sandwich Toasts
Add a pop of summery flavor and color to the party.

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Baked Brie with Jezebel Peaches
Melty cheese?
It’s a no-brainer.
Pimiento Cheese-Stuffed Peppers
We’ll never tire of finding new ways to enjoy pimiento cheese.

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Sweet-spicy jarred Peppadew peppers make this no-cook appetizer a snap.
Serve alongside pepper jelly for spreadable flair.
From game days to birthdays, it fits in anywhere.

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The recipe blends a country-cooking staple with a traditional Middle Eastern dip and turns it into a real crowd-pleaser.
Red pepper jelly, pecans, and flaky sea salt add major texture and flavor.
Creamy Crab Dip
Sometimes a recipe is a classic for a reason.

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They’re almost too easy to pop into your mouth without missing a beat at the party.
Those four ingredients are all it takes.
Basic Pimiento Cheese
Is it really a party without this spread?

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This is a great option for potlucks and picnics because it travels well.
They bring a bright, almost citrusy note to the mix.
This 20-minute appetizer is always an easy option when in a pinch.

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Picnic Egg Salad
These elegant egg toasts turn a picnic staple and into a party appetizer.
Chopped radishes add a surprising spicy note and hint of color.
Serve with a variety of quick dips for an easy party spread.

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Creamy Avocado Dip
Short on avocados, but still craving guacamole?
Guacamole
This fresh guacamole recipe combines all of them and turns a classic dip into something special.
Mushroom-Stuffed Phyllo Cups
Frozen mini phyllo pastry shells are the unsung hero of entertaining.

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The flaky cups can be filled and baked with anything on hand for an impressive-looking appetizer.
This version has a delicious blend of gourmet mushrooms, fresh herbs, and Gruyere.
Lump Crab Mornay
This dip comes together in one pot on the stovetop.

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Canned chopped green chilies and sliced jalapenos add the right amount of heat to this rich, creamy dip.
Serve over crunchy Bibb lettuce leaves for a portable, but also light appetizer that doesn’t spoil dinner.
Herbed-Goat Cheese Spread
No need to pull out fancy equipment to make this 5-minute spread.

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Combine chopped fresh herbs with goat cheese and serve with baguette slices and radishes.
Want to spice it up?
Add a kick by stirring grated fresh ginger or diced jalapeno chile in the pan along with the garlic.

Top the cheese round with a delightfully orange-spiked mixture of pomegranate seeds and juice and chopped pistachios.
Tomato Tea Sandwiches
These mini tomato sandwiches will delight any Southern crowd.
The cream cheese spread features a fresh herb sauce.

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Toasting the bread provides a crunch, while red onion adds bite.
Trim the crusts for a more elegant presentation.
Guests wont get enough of these bites made with smoked salmon, potato chips, and creme fraiche.

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This dish is a great way to use leftover ham.
Tomato-And-Watermelon Salad
A five-star recipe that comes together in no time?
We’re here for it.

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Juicy tomatoes and sweet watermelon star in this summer appetizer that’s perfect when you’re in a pinch.
), you could make a speedy, no-fuss dip that has quite the kick.
Pair this creamy dip with chips or veggie sticks at your next gathering.

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This old-school salad will be welcomed back by friends and family because it’s creamy.
meaty, and satisfying.
Plus, it comes together in no time and is perfect paired with crackers.

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Best Waldorf Salad
Don’t forget about all the delicious salads that make great starters.
A delicious assortment perfect for warm-weather potlucks.
Kentucky Benedictine Sandwiches
Doesn’t need to be Derby Day to enjoy these bite-size, 8-ingredient sandwiches.

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