Back Porch Slow-Cooker Meatballs
This slow-cooker meatballs recipe came to me while sitting on the back porch. The combination of meats and ingredients in the sauce makes meatballs unlike any I've ever had before. —Justin Boudreaux, Walker, Louisiana
Watermelon Feta Flag Salad
Our family celebrates the Fourth of July with a watermelon salad that resembles the flag. Here’s an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue. —Jan Whitworth, Roebuck, South Carolina
Herbed Feta Dip
Guests can’t get enough of this thick, zesty dip that bursts with fresh Mediterranean flavor. The feta cheese and fresh mint complement each other beautifully, creating the perfect sidekick for crunchy carrots, toasted pita chips, sliced baguettes or any other dipper you fancy.—Rebecca Ray, Chicago, Illinois
Easy Spanakopita Appetizers
I love having appetizers on hand in the freezer, especially when the holiday season is fast approaching. This easy spanakopita recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Everyone loves them, they're easy to prep and they bake up in about 20 minutes! —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta
Effortless Guacamole
Here’s one delicious, extra-easy classic you’ll turn to again and again. “I’ve been making this recipe since I started cooking, and that was a long time ago.” DeAnn Lokvam — Tijeras, New Mexico
Nacho Triangles with Salsa-Ranch Dipping Sauce
These nacho bites are a fun fusion of Greek appetizers and flavors of the American Southwest. The simple dipping sauce is a perfect match—the ranch balances out the heat of the jalapeno and chipotle peppers—and takes the recipe to the next level. —Angela Spengler, Niceville, Florida
Fried Lemon-Pepper Wings
These lemon-pepper wings are perfect for game day. Try these out if you've been stuck in a chicken wing rut. Add grated lemon zest to the butter mixture if you want a more pronounced lemon flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Pico de Gallo
This easy pico de gallo recipe is a classic for good reason. It pairs with just about everything! My tip is to let it chill for an hour or two before serving to help the flavors blend. Also, it's best to serve it the same day that it's made. —Jeannie Trudell, Del Norte, Colorado
Mini Cheese Balls
These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for any party. Top with toasted sesame seeds and fresh rosemary and paprika to add even more flavor. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina
Cowboy Beef Dip
A group of us in a foods class developed this recipe for the North Dakota State Beef Bash Competition, in 1995. We won the contest, and now my family requests this dip for all our special gatherings! —Jessica Klym, Killdeer, North Dakota
Peppy Peach Salsa
Garden-fresh salsas are one of my favorite condiments. So when I saw a recipe for peach salsa in the newspaper, I couldn't think of anything that sounded better. —Jennifer Abbott, Moraga, California
Fresh Shrimp and Avocado Nachos
I'm a fan of shrimp, and my family loves nachos. When I combined those favorites and added fresh avocado, the result was a cool yet satisfying snack. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Mozzarella Sticks
I'm particularly fond of these tasty mozzarella sticks because they're baked, not fried. Cheese is one of my family's favorite foods. Being of Italian descent, I cook often with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. —Mary Merchant, Barre, Vermont
Lemon-Garlic Hummus
You'll need just five ingredients to blend together this smooth and creamy bean dip. It's delicious and quick to make. —Kris Capener, Ogden, Utah
Antipasto Skewers
This elegant-looking appetizer is quick and easy to make. It's perfect for dinner parties, cocktail parties and everything in between! —Amanda Dekrey, Fargo, North Dakota
Cajun Crab Poppers
My brother moved to New Orleans and I love visiting him and his family whenever I can. These easy jalapeno poppers are stuffed with crab, cajun seasonings and bacon. They're a little hot and spicy, just like a visit to New Orleans! —Elizabeth Lubin, Huntington Beach, California
Bacon Buffalo Chicken Dip
This Buffalo dip is must-have dish at our annual Fourth of July backyard barbecue! It celebrates America's love for Buffalo chicken dipped in heaps of creamy, tangy blue cheese dressing. And the bacon? That's just a bonus! My kids aren't big fans of blue cheese, but its strong flavor can be mellowed out by adding more mild cheddar in its place. —Katie O'Keeffe, Derry, New Hampshire
Florentine Ciabatta
I came up with this appetizer because of my love for white pizza. I've served this ciabatta pizza at many holiday parties, and it's always a big hit among both children and adults. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut
Quick Watermelon Salsa
On hot days, this sweet combo of watermelon, pineapple and fresh cilantro has everything you want. The flavors blend beautifully, it’s pretty, and it comes together in no time. —Betsy Hanson, Tiverton, Rhode Island
Baked Island Chicken Wings
These baked chicken wings are a tasty twist on regular wings. The orange flavor is a game-changer and will have you coming back for seconds! —Caren Berry, Lancaster, California
Dijon-Bacon Dip for Pretzels
With just four ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge, this quick appetizer comes together in a snap. If you like the zip of horseradish, start with a teaspoon or two and add more to taste. —Isabelle Rooney, Summerville, South Carolina
Jalapeno Popper Dip
Here's a fantastic way to deliver all that blazing jalapeno popper taste without the work. Whenever I bring this jalapeno popper dip recipe to a party, I'm always asked for the recipe. Serve with corn chips, tortilla chips or butter crackers. —Jennifer Wilke, Collinsville, Illinois
Grilled Teriyaki Beef Skewers
These beef skewers are easy to make and easy to eat—perfect for any party! The horseradish cream sauce pairs well with the flavorful beef. —Linda Flaherty, Lake Worth, Florida
Chipotle Berry Fruit Salsa
Not too hot, but with a bit of a kick, this salsa is a perfect topping for grilled fish or chicken. It’s also a delectable chip dip—just double the recipe and watch it disappear. The spice is quite mild, but cut down on (or increase!) the chipotle peppers to suit your taste. If you like, add lime zest for an added twist. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Grilled Bruschetta
This is my go-to appetizer in the summer when tomatoes and basil are fresh from the garden. The balsamic glaze takes this bruschetta recipe over the top. I like to use a Tuscan Herb or basil-infused olive oil for this. But, it's great with just plain olive oil too. —Brittany Allyn, Mesa, Arizona
Chicken Cakes with Avocado Mango Sauce
These chicken cakes are a great appetizer for your next holiday party. Or serve them for dinner tonight with a side of rice and your favorite vegetable! —Rachael Nodes, La Barge, Wyoming
Banh Mi Skewers
I love banh mi sandwiches but wanted to make them a little easier to serve for a party. These skewers are a really fun twist! For easier prep on the day of the party, make the meatballs in advance and freeze them. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Mini Burgers with the Works
I started preparing these mini burgers several years ago as a creative way to use up bread crusts accumulating in my freezer. They're delicious. —Linda Lane, Bennington, Vermont
Pretzel Bread Bowl with Cheese Dip
Our town is known as Pretzel City—even our local sports teams are known as The Pretzels. I came up with this recipe for an annual local recipe contest. People couldn’t believe that this delicious bread had pretzels in the mix! For variety, try using different flavors of pretzels. —Andrea Johnson, Freeport, Illinois
Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Shrimp
Blue cheese, bacon and basil pack big flavor into a couple of bites. To save time, you can assemble the skewers the night before and then serve them hot from the broiler on the day. —Vivi Taylor, Middleburg, Florida
Southwestern Star Dip
I enjoyed this sensational dip at a holiday party and begged for the recipe. No others are the ones begging me! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Tangy Barbecue Wings
I took these slow-cooked wings to work, and they vanished before I even got a bite! The tangy sauce is lip-smacking good. —Sherry Pitzer, Troy, Missouri
Grilled Guacamole
If you’re a guacamole lover, try this fun grilled version that gives it a smoky flavor. The veggies tend to darken a bit when heated, so stir it gently to prevent further discoloration. —Lindsay Sprunk, Noblesville, Indiana
Quick Tortilla Pinwheels
Prepare these easy, cheesy rollups several days in advance if desired. Serve with your choice of mild or hot salsa or picante sauce. —Barbara Keith, Faucett, Missouri
Smoky Jalapenos
When I make these bacon-wrapped appetizers, there are no leftovers. They can also be made with mild banana peppers or yellow chili peppers. —Melinda Strable, Ankeny, Iowa
Ground Beef Taco Dip
Beef up your snack game and serve this easy taco dip with meat. Full of classic flavors, it's a little extra satisfaction for those football-day appetites. —Errika Perry, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Coconut Chicken and Shrimp
I was looking for a fun, easy weeknight dinner based on our favorite shrimp dish that was healthier than fast food. This has become a favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York
Fresh Corn & Avocado Dip
I alter my sister's dip recipe by adding finely chopped jalapeno for a little heat. It's a different way of serving corn as a dip that can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. —Pat Roberts, Thornton, Ontario
Juicy Watermelon Salad
This fruit salad has such a surprising yet fabulous mix of flavors that friends often ask for the recipe. Combine seedless watermelon varieties in yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist. —Heidi Haight, Macomb, Michigan
Little Pigs in a Hammock
Pigs in a blanket aren’t just for kids! Dijon and Camembert transform this children’s favorite into a version that’s perfect for grown-ups. —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, Colorado
Chili Queso Dip
I’ve had this recipe for more than 42 years, but have updated it from time to time. This is an easy party favorite, and everyone loves the taquito dippers. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Mojito-Style Yellow Tomato Salsa
With grilled tomatoes, crunchy peppers and a sprinkle of mint, this fresh salsa is good on just about everything. Try it in fish tacos, on tortilla chips or by the spoonful! —Patterson Watkins, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Antipasto Kabobs
My husband and I met at a cooking class. We have loved creating menus and entertaining ever since. These make-ahead antipasto skewers are always a hit. —Denise Hazen, Cincinnati, Ohio
Homemade Guacamole
Ever wonder how to make guacamole? Just whip together this delicious blend of your favorite fresh ingredients.—Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Salami Roll-Ups
These bite-size appetizers are a cinch to make with just four ingredients—even your kids can help you with them! —Jean Baffuto, Apache Junction, Arizona
Garden Tomato Salad
For as long as I can remember, Mom made a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. Now I make it whenever beautiful tomatoes are in reach. —Shannon Arthur, Upper Arlington, Ohio
Mini Pizza Cups
Served hot or cold, these little pizzas are wonderful. Their small size makes them ideal for an after-school snack or kid-friendly party. Plus, they’re so easy to make, little ones can help you in the kitchen! —Jane Jones, Cedar, Minnesota
Cheesy BBQ Beef Dip
Barbecued beef dip is a holiday staple in our house. My husband can't get enough! —Selena Swafford, Dalton, Georgia
Grilled Loaded Potato Rounds
My go-to recipe for outdoor potlucks is an awesome potato side. I prep everything and grill at the party. Pass with sour cream, cheese, bacon and chives. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Miniature Corn Dogs
Fun-size corn dogs add a little wow factor to any get-together. Kids and adults love them, so expect every batch to disappear fast. —Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana
Brat & Bacon Appetizer Pizza
Brats and bacon on pizza are a tasty beginning, but I jazz them up with apricot preserves and honey mustard. These cheesy bites please my toughest critics. —Colleen Vrooman, Waukesha, Wisconsin
Fruit and Cheese Board
Who says cheese and sausage get to have all the fun? Make this a party go-to with any fruits that are in season. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Honey and Ale Pulled Chicken Sliders
Score big with your guests with a little bit of sweet heat! This recipe works well for a football party—the extra liquid in the slow cooker keeps the chicken nice and juicy all day long. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Zucchini Pico de Gallo Salsa
I love veggies and fresh ingredients this time of year. I make big bowls of this salsa, which we eat with pretty much everything in the summer when tomatoes are bountiful. My kids love it, though I leave out the jalapeno when making it for them. —Amy Gattuso, Madison Heights, Michigan
Chicken & Bacon Roll-Ups
My children like these so much that they ask for them every day for lunch during the summer. Whenever I have leftover chicken or turkey breast, this is a delicious way to use it up. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Valley, California
Maryland Corn Pops
Fresh-picked sweet corn is a big thing in Maryland. Here’s my homespun version of Mexican street corn. —Kristie Schley, Severna Park, Maryland
Pepper Mango Salsa
Whenever I make this, the bowl is always left empty! The idea for a homemade mango sauce hit me after I saw a chef on television make something similar. It sounded so good, and it wasn't something I could find in a store at the time. The salsa is especially tasty served with artisan chips —the black bean and roasted garlic ones are my favorite. When strawberries are in season, I add them into the mix, too. —Wendy Rusch, Cameron, Wisconsin
Bacon Cheddar Jalapenos
Take these cheesy, fiery appetizers straight to the grill so you can add a touch of smoke. We pass them with bowls of guacamole and sour cream. —Wayne Barnes, Montgomery, Alabama
Baked Sweet Corn Croquettes
These delicious corn croquettes are baked like muffins instead of fried. They can be served with butter, but my family prefers salsa as an accompaniment. —Karen Kuebler, Dallas, Texas
Grilled Leek Dip
Smoky leeks from the grill add punch to this creamy appetizer with veggies and chips. If baby Vidalia onions are available, I use those. —Ramona Parris, Acworth, Georgia
One-Bite Tamales
Clever little meatballs deliver the flavor and rich sauce of a traditional tamale in a bite-sized portion. They’re a delightfully different addition to a holiday spread. —Dolores Jaycox, Gretna, Louisiana
Gentleman's Whiskey Bacon Jam
You can slather this smoky bacon jam on pretty much anything. It lasts only a week in the fridge, so I freeze small amounts for a quick snack with crackers. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Polynesian Kabobs
With their explosion of flavors and textures, these kabobs make a quick, satisfying entree. —Chris Anderson, Morton, Illinois.
Chili con Queso
Years ago, my husband invented this gooey cheese dip. I may be biased, but I have to say it's excellent. If you like heat, rev it up with finely chopped jalapenos. —Patricia Leinheiser, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Watermelon Cups
This lovely appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Lime-Marinated Shrimp Salad
Ceviche is a seafood dish of raw fish marinated in citrus juice, which “cooks” the fish without heat. This version starts with cooked shrimp and adds tomatoes, cucumbers and serrano peppers. —Adan Franco, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini Peppers
Mini peppers are so colorful and they're the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. —Christine Hanover, Lewiston, California
Hot Bacon Cheese Dip
I've tried assorted appetizers before, but this one is a surefire people-pleaser. The thick bacon cheese dip has lots of flavor and keeps my guests happily munching as long as it lasts. I serve it with tortilla chips or sliced French bread. —Suzanne Whitaker, Knoxville, Tennessee
Makeover Deviled Eggs
This updated version of a classic appetizer uses only half the egg yolks of the original recipe and calls for soft bread crumbs to help firm up the filling. We replaced the mayo with fat-free mayonnaise and reduced-fat sour cream. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Healthy Spinach Dip
I needed something healthy and low in fat to take to a get-together, so I experimented and came up with this dip. It's packed full of flavor and color. Served with assorted veggies, bread or crackers, it's always a hit. People ask for the recipe every time. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nacho Tots
This is an easy, versatile party appetizer that everyone loves. If you can't find chorizo, ground beef or ground chicken are great, too. Top with anything you like! —Connie Krupp, Racine, Wisconsin
Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing
A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois
Chive Crab Cakes
These tasty crab cakes are perfect for appetizers, or try them with a salad for a light meal. —Cindy Worth, Lapwai, Idaho
Classic Hummus
We love hummus, and this version is really amazing. If you have a pressure cooker, this is an easy, tasty reason to pull it out! We pair hummus with fresh veggies for a meal or snack. —Monica and David Eichler, Lawrence, Kansas
Honey-Mustard Chicken Wings
For a change from spicy Buffalo sauce, try these sweet and sticky wings. There's a good chance they'll become your new favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York
Nacho Salsa Dip
This zesty dip is great for any get-together and allows me to spend more time with my guests. I always have requests to bring it when my husband and I attend parties. —Sally Hull, Homestead, Florida
Veggie Ranch Tortilla Pinwheels
These terrific bite-size appetizers are always a hit wherever I take them. They're easy to make ahead of time, and are a great addition to other party fare! —Lori Kostecki, Wausau, Wisconsin
Layered BLT Dip
When I throw a party for friends, I whip up this addictive layered three-cheese dip. Somehow, it’s always gone within the first 20 minutes. —Jade Bennett, Kingwood, Texas
Grilled Kiwi-Chicken Kabobs with Honey-Chipotle Glaze
When guests bite into these juicy grilled kabobs, their eyes always widen with satisfaction. Our four kids are crazy about the spicy-sweet sauce. —Joni Hilton, Rocklin, California
Beer Dip
Ranch dressing mix flavors this easy dip that is packed with shredded cheese and is perfect paired with pretzels. Be forewarned, though—it's hard to stop eating once you've started! The beer cheese dip can be made with any type of beer, including nonalcoholic. I've taken it to many parties and I am always asked for the recipe. —Michelle Long, New Castle, Colorado
Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Everyone will simply devour this savory and delicious dip with shredded chicken throughout. The spicy kick makes it a perfect football-watching food, and the recipe always brings raves. —Janice Foltz, Hershey, Pennsylvania
Bacon-Encased Water Chestnuts
My husband and I do lots of entertaining and always start off with appetizers like these tempting morsels.—Midge Scurlock, Creston, Iowa
Roasted Vegetable Dip
While my children were always very willing eaters, I came up with this recipe to get them to eat more veggies and enjoy it. The dip doesn't last long in our house. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
Party Shrimp
The marinade for this dish makes the shrimp so flavorful, you won't even need a dipping sauce. Even those who claim they don’t like shellfish really dig this appetizer. —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Cucumber-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Besides being tasty, these little tomato poppers are extra awesome because you can make them ahead of time. At parties, I often triple the recipe because they disappear fast. —Christi Martin, Elko, Nevada
Championship Bean Dip
My friends and neighbors expect me to bring this irresistible dip to every gathering. When I arrive, they ask, "You brought your bean dip, didn't you?" If there are any leftovers, we use them to make bean and cheese burritos the next day. I've given out this recipe a hundred times. —Wendi Wavrin Law, Omaha, Nebraska
Barbecued Meatballs
Grape jelly and chili sauce are the secrets that make these meatballs so fantastic. If I’m serving them at a party, I prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and reheat them right before guests arrive. —Irma Schnuelle, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Blue Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Peppers
Whenever I put out a plate of these cute little appetizers, people come flocking. Good thing there are lots of peppers in each bag. —Tara Cruz, Kersey, Colorado
Queso Baked Nachos
I modified a nachos recipe I found, and my family loves it! It is now a regular at our dinner table. —Denise Wheeler, Newaygo, Michigan
Spruced-Up Cheese Spread
A neighbor who’s a wonderful cook gave me the recipe for this zippy cracker spread. It’s easy to shape into a Christmas tree for a festive occasion, but it looks enticing in a bowl or on a plate, too. —Judy Grimes, Brandon, Mississippi
Garden-Fresh Seafood Cocktail
For something cool on a hot day, we mix shrimp and crabmeat with crunchy veggies straight from the garden. Look for adobo seasoning in your grocery’s international section. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Hot Cheese Dip
This recipe started at school—I'm a teacher, and when a colleague brought Hot Cheese Dip to our regular staff potluck, I immediately gave it an A-plus. —Ardyce Piehl, Poynette, Wisconsin
Bruschetta from the Grill
Dijon mustard, mayonnaise and oregano make a savory spread for chopped tomatoes, garlic and fresh basil in this fun twist on a favorite appetizer. This grilled bruschetta gets rave reviews every time I serve it. —Mary Nafis, Chino, California
Fiesta Pinwheels
Whenever I serve this make-ahead, easy pinwheel recipe, they disappear fast. When a friend at the office shared them with me, I knew in one bite I'd be taking her Mexican pinwheels home for the holidays. —Diane Martin, Brown Deer, Wisconsin
Pressure Cooker Cheddar Bacon Ale Dip
My tangy, smoky dip won the top prize at our office party recipe contest. Use whatever beer you like, but steer clear of dark varieties. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Eggplant Flatbread Pizzas
I'm now a professional chef, but I loved making this recipe for the family on Friday nights as a home cook. We like to shake pizza up with unique, fresh toppings. —Christine Wendland, Browns Mills, New Jersey
Caprese Salad Kabobs
Trade in the usual veggie party platter for these fun kabobs. I often make these for my family to snack on, and it's a great recipe for the kids to help make. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
9-Layer Greek Dip
Instead of the same taco dip at every family event or potluck, try this light, cool and refreshing Greek dip. It looks and tastes healthy—and it is. —Shawn Barto, Winter Garden, Florida
Chili-Lime Roasted Chickpeas
Looking for a lighter snack that's still a crowd-pleaser? You've found it! These zesty, crunchy chickpeas will have everyone happily munching. —Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina
Cucumber Fruit Salsa
Our garden always gives us way more cucumbers and tomatoes than we know what to do with. But we’ve learned how to handle the unexpected with a surprise of our own. This is our pretty, fresh way to use up the bounty. —Anna Davis, Springfield, Missouri
Lemony Shrimp & Tomatoes
I created this recipe for my family because they love grilled shrimp. I love it because it's quick, delicious and good for us. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
Grilled Cherry-Glazed Chicken Wings
When I take these grilled wings to events, there are never any leftovers! Friends and family love them. —Ashley Gable, Atlanta, Georgia
Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs
My daughter Sara loves spicy Buffalo chicken and deviled eggs, so I combined the two. Make and chill a day ahead so the flavors mingle. —Robin Spires, Tampa, Florida
Fresh Fruit Bowl
The glorious colors used here make this a great summer fruit bowl. Slightly sweet and chilled, it makes a nice accompaniment to a grilled entree. —Marlon Kirst, Troy, Michigan
The post 100+ July 4th Appetizers You Have to Make This Year appeared first on Taste of Home.
Caroline Stanko