Top 68 Slang For Appetizer – Meaning & Usage

Are you ready to spice up your vocabulary with some delicious slang for appetizers? Whether you’re a foodie looking to impress your friends or just curious about the latest culinary lingo, we’ve got you covered. From “nibbles” to “starter bites,” our team has curated a mouth-watering list that will leave you hungry for more. So grab a seat at the table and get ready to indulge in the world of appetizer slang with us!

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1. Apps

Short for “appetizers,” this term refers to small dishes or snacks served before a meal. Apps are often shared among a group and can range from simple finger foods to more elaborate starters.

For example, “Let’s order some apps to share before our main course.”
A restaurant might advertise, “Join us for happy hour and enjoy discounted apps.”
A party host might say, “I’ll be serving a variety of apps for everyone to enjoy.”

2. Starters

Starters are the first course of a meal, typically consisting of small dishes or appetizers. This term is often used in restaurant menus to indicate the beginning of the dining experience.

For instance, a waiter might ask, “Are you ready to order your starters?”
A food critic might comment, “The restaurant’s selection of starters was impressive.”
A chef might say, “I take pride in creating unique and flavorful starters for my guests.”

3. Bites

Bites are small portions of food that can be eaten in one or two bites. This term is often used to describe small appetizers or snacks that are easy to consume.

For example, “The party had a variety of bite-sized appetizers.”
A food blogger might write, “These mini quiches are perfect for bite-sized snacking.”
A host might say, “Help yourself to some delicious bites before the main course is served.”

4. Nibbles

Nibbles are small snacks or appetizers that are meant to be eaten in small bites. This term is often used to describe casual or informal food options.

For instance, “We had a selection of nibbles at the cocktail party.”
A host might say, “Feel free to grab some nibbles from the buffet.”
A partygoer might comment, “I love these tasty little nibbles!”

5. Finger foods

Finger foods are small, bite-sized snacks or appetizers that can be eaten with the fingers, without the need for utensils. These are often served at parties or events where guests mingle.

For example, “The party had a great selection of finger foods.”
A host might say, “I’ll be serving a variety of finger foods throughout the evening.”
A guest might comment, “I love how easy it is to enjoy these finger foods while socializing.”

6. Small plates

This term refers to a style of dining where multiple small dishes are ordered and shared among the diners. It often allows for trying a variety of flavors and dishes in one meal.

For example, “Let’s order a few small plates and share them.”
A restaurant might advertise, “Come enjoy our extensive menu of small plates.”
A food critic might say, “The small plates at this restaurant are perfect for a group dining experience.”

7. Tapas

Tapas are a variety of Spanish appetizers or snacks that are typically served with drinks. These small plates are meant to be shared and enjoyed in a social setting.

For instance, “Let’s go to a tapas bar and try different dishes.”
A menu might list, “Patatas bravas, croquetas, and albondigas are popular tapas options.”
A food lover might say, “I love the concept of tapas because you get to try a little bit of everything.”

8. Hors d’oeuvres

Hors d’oeuvres are bite-sized appetizers typically served before a meal or at a cocktail party. They are meant to stimulate the appetite and provide a taste of what’s to come.

For example, “The waitstaff passed around trays of hors d’oeuvres at the party.”
A caterer might offer, “Our hors d’oeuvres selection includes a variety of hot and cold options.”
A host might say, “I’ll be serving a selection of hors d’oeuvres before dinner.”

9. Snacks

Snacks refer to small portions of food that are eaten between meals or as a quick bite. While not exclusively appetizers, certain snacks can serve as appetizers depending on the context.

For instance, “I grabbed a bag of chips as a snack before dinner.”
A parent might pack, “Healthy snacks like carrot sticks and apple slices for their child.”
A nutritionist might recommend, “Choose nutritious snacks like nuts or yogurt instead of sugary treats.”

10. Antipasti

Antipasti refers to a variety of Italian appetizers or starters. They often include cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and other small bites of food.

For example, “Let’s order a platter of antipasti to share before our main course.”
A menu might list, “Bruschetta, prosciutto, and olives are common antipasti options.”
A food enthusiast might say, “My favorite part of an Italian meal is the antipasti course.”

11. Amuse-bouche

A small, bite-sized appetizer that is served before a meal to stimulate the taste buds and create anticipation for the upcoming dishes. Amuse-bouche is a French term that translates to “mouth amuser”.

For example, a fine dining restaurant might serve an amuse-bouche of salmon tartare on a crispy cracker.
A chef might create a unique amuse-bouche using seasonal ingredients to surprise and delight their guests.
At a fancy cocktail party, guests might be greeted with an amuse-bouche of foie gras on toasted brioche.

12. Canapés

Small, decorative appetizers that are usually served on a slice of bread or a cracker. Canapés are often topped with various ingredients such as cheese, cured meats, or vegetables, and are meant to be eaten in one or two bites.

For instance, at a wedding reception, the caterers might pass around trays of canapés to the guests.
A host might prepare a platter of canapés for a cocktail party, featuring a variety of flavors and textures.
A food enthusiast might experiment with different canapé recipes, such as smoked salmon and dill cream cheese on rye bread.

13. Mezze

A selection of small dishes that are typically served as an appetizer in Middle Eastern cuisine. Mezze is similar to Spanish tapas or Greek meze, and consists of a variety of hot and cold dishes such as hummus, falafel, stuffed grape leaves, and grilled vegetables.

For example, a Lebanese restaurant might offer a mezze platter with a selection of dips, salads, and grilled meats.
A group of friends might order a mezze feast to share, enjoying the different flavors and textures of the dishes.
A food blogger might write a post about their favorite mezze recipes, including homemade pita bread and roasted eggplant dip.

14. Pupus

Pupus are small, flavorful appetizers that are commonly found in Hawaiian cuisine. They are often served at social gatherings, parties, or as starters in restaurants. Pupus can include dishes such as poke, spam musubi, or kalua pig sliders.

For instance, at a luau, guests might enjoy a spread of pupus before the main course, including grilled shrimp skewers and teriyaki chicken wings.
A Hawaiian food truck might specialize in pupus, offering a variety of tasty bites for customers to enjoy on the go.
A traveler to Hawaii might try different pupus at local eateries, immersing themselves in the flavors of the islands.

15. Dim sum

A style of Chinese cuisine that features bite-sized portions of food served in small steamer baskets or on small plates. Dim sum is typically served as brunch or lunch and includes a variety of dishes such as dumplings, buns, and small pastries.

For example, a dim sum restaurant might offer a selection of steamed dumplings, such as shrimp dumplings or pork siu mai.
Families might gather for a weekend dim sum brunch, enjoying a variety of dishes and sharing them around the table.
A food enthusiast might take a dim sum cooking class to learn how to make their own dumplings and buns.

16. Tidbits

Tidbits are small, bite-sized portions of food that are typically served as appetizers or snacks. They are perfect for grazing or enjoying as a light snack before a meal.

For example, at a cocktail party, you might find a tray of assorted tidbits like mini quiches or stuffed mushrooms.
A food blogger might write, “These tasty tidbits are the perfect party appetizer.”
A restaurant menu might list “Assorted Tidbits” as an option for those who want to try a little bit of everything.

17. Grazing platter

A grazing platter is a large platter or board filled with a variety of bite-sized foods. It’s a popular trend for entertaining or enjoying a casual meal with friends and family.

For instance, a grazing platter might include an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, olives, fruits, and crackers.
A host might set up a grazing platter for guests to enjoy during a party or gathering.
A food enthusiast might post a photo of a beautifully arranged grazing platter on social media with the caption, “The ultimate appetizer spread!”

18. Munchies

Munchies refers to small snacks or appetizers that are typically enjoyed between meals or while watching a movie or TV show. They are often quick and easy to eat.

For example, a person might say, “I have a craving for some munchies. Let’s get some chips and dip.”
A college student might stock up on munchies like popcorn and pretzels for late-night study sessions.
A food reviewer might write, “This restaurant offers a great selection of munchies to satisfy your cravings.”

19. Sampler

A sampler is a selection of small bites or appetizers that allows you to try a variety of flavors or dishes. It’s a great option for those who want to taste a little bit of everything.

For instance, a restaurant might offer a sampler platter with mini versions of their popular appetizers.
A person might order a sampler to share with friends and try different dishes from the menu.
A food critic might describe a sampler as “the perfect way to experience the restaurant’s diverse flavors.”

20. Snacketizer

A snacketizer is an appetizer that is designed to satisfy your cravings and keep you satisfied until the main meal. It’s a combination of the words “snack” and “appetizer”.

For example, a restaurant might offer a snacketizer menu with a variety of small bites and finger foods.
A person might say, “I’m not too hungry, I just want a snacketizer to hold me over.”
A food blogger might write, “These snacketizers are perfect for snacking on during game night.”

21. Tasters

Refers to small portions or samples of food that are meant to give a taste or preview of a larger dish or meal.

For example, at a food festival, you might find booths offering tasters of different types of cheese.
In a restaurant, a server might say, “Before your main course, would you like some tasters from our appetizer menu?”
A food blogger might write, “I love going to tasting events where I can try tasters of new and unique dishes.”

22. Pre-meal bites

These are small food items that are eaten before the main meal. They are usually light and meant to stimulate the appetite.

For instance, at a cocktail party, you might find trays of pre-meal bites like mini quiches or bruschetta.
A host might say, “Please help yourself to some pre-meal bites while we finish preparing dinner.”
A nutritionist might advise, “Having pre-meal bites that are high in protein can help you feel more satisfied during the main meal.”

23. Pre-dinner nibbles

Refers to small, bite-sized snacks or appetizers that are enjoyed before the main dinner. These nibbles are often served with drinks and are meant to whet the appetite.

For example, at a cocktail party, you might find bowls of pre-dinner nibbles like mixed nuts or olives.
A host might say, “Feel free to grab some pre-dinner nibbles from the buffet table.”
A food lover might write, “I always look forward to the pre-dinner nibbles at fancy restaurants.”

24. Small bites

Refers to small-sized portions of food that can be eaten in one or two bites. These small bites are often served as appetizers or in tasting menus.

For instance, at a tapas restaurant, you might order a variety of small bites like patatas bravas or croquettes.
A chef might describe a dish as, “Our signature appetizer is a plate of small bites that showcase the flavors of the season.”
A food critic might write, “The restaurant’s small bites menu offers a great opportunity to try a variety of flavors and textures.”

25. Antipasto

This refers to a traditional Italian appetizer course that typically consists of a variety of cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and bread.

For example, at an Italian restaurant, you might start your meal with a plate of antipasto that includes prosciutto, mozzarella, olives, and roasted peppers.
A chef might say, “Our antipasto platter is a great way to sample a selection of Italian flavors.”
A food enthusiast might write, “I love the combination of flavors and textures in a well-prepared antipasto plate.”

26. Snacketizers

Snacketizers are snacks that are typically served before a meal to whet the appetite. They can be anything from finger foods to small bite-sized portions.

For example, “Let’s have some snacketizers before dinner.”
A person hosting a party might say, “I’ll prepare a variety of snacketizers for everyone to enjoy.”
In a restaurant, a menu might offer “a selection of snacketizers to start your meal.”

27. Pre-dinner bites

Pre-dinner bites are small portions of food that are served before the main meal. They are meant to stimulate the appetite and provide a taste of what’s to come.

For instance, “We’ll be serving pre-dinner bites to keep everyone satisfied while waiting for the main course.”
A host might say, “Please help yourself to some pre-dinner bites.”
In a fine dining establishment, pre-dinner bites might be referred to as “amuse-bouche.”

28. Dips and chips

Dips and chips are a classic appetizer combination. It refers to a selection of dips, such as salsa, guacamole, or spinach dip, served alongside various types of chips, such as tortilla chips or potato chips.

For example, “Let’s have a platter of dips and chips for everyone to enjoy.”
A person hosting a game night might say, “I’ll prepare a variety of dips and chips for everyone to snack on.”
In a party setting, dips and chips are a popular choice for easy snacking.

29. Pupusas

Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran appetizer that consists of thick corn tortillas stuffed with various fillings, such as cheese, beans, or meat. They are often served with curtido, a pickled cabbage slaw, and tomato salsa.

For instance, “Don’t miss out on trying the pupusas at the Salvadoran restaurant.”
A person familiar with Salvadoran cuisine might say, “Pupusas are a staple in our culture.”
In a food festival, a vendor might advertise, “Authentic Salvadoran pupusas made fresh to order.”

30. Sushi rolls

Sushi rolls are a popular appetizer in Japanese cuisine. They consist of a layer of sushi rice wrapped in seaweed and filled with various ingredients, such as raw fish, vegetables, or cooked seafood. They are often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

For example, “Let’s order some sushi rolls to share as an appetizer.”
A sushi chef might say, “Our specialty is hand-rolled sushi rolls.”
In a sushi restaurant, a menu might offer a variety of sushi rolls to choose from.

31. Empanadas

These are pastries filled with various ingredients, typically meat or cheese, and then baked or fried. Empanadas are a popular appetizer in Latin American cuisine.

For instance, a restaurant might offer “beef empanadas” or “spinach and cheese empanadas” on their appetizer menu.
At a party, someone might say, “Don’t forget to try the empanadas. They’re delicious!”
A food blogger might write, “I recently tried the empanadas at this new restaurant, and they were amazing.”

32. Crostini

Crostini are small, thin slices of bread that are typically toasted until crispy. They are often topped with various ingredients, such as cheese, cured meats, or spreads, and served as an appetizer.

For example, a recipe might call for “tomato and mozzarella crostini” or “goat cheese and fig crostini.”
At a dinner party, a host might say, “Help yourself to some crostini. They’re a great starter.”
A food critic might write, “The crostini at this restaurant were perfectly crunchy and topped with flavorful combinations.”

33. Sliders

Sliders are small, bite-sized burgers typically served on mini buns. They are a popular appetizer or party food, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors in a smaller portion.

For instance, a menu might feature “beef sliders with caramelized onions” or “BBQ pulled pork sliders.”
At a cookout, someone might say, “I’ll have a couple of sliders and some potato salad, please.”
A food enthusiast might post on social media, “Just made some chicken and avocado sliders. They were a hit!”

34. Skewers

Skewers are long, thin metal or wooden sticks used to hold pieces of food, such as meat, vegetables, or fruit, for grilling or roasting. Skewers can be served as an appetizer, often referred to as kebabs.

For example, a menu might offer “chicken satay skewers” or “vegetable kebabs.”
At a barbecue, someone might say, “I love the grilled shrimp skewers. They’re so flavorful.”
A food blogger might write, “These steak skewers are perfect for summer grilling. Tender and juicy!”

35. Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer consisting of grilled or toasted bread topped with various ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, basil, or cheese. It is often served as an appetizer or snack.

For instance, a recipe might call for “tomato and basil bruschetta” or “mushroom and goat cheese bruschetta.”
At a wine tasting, someone might say, “The bruschetta pairs perfectly with this Chianti.”
A food critic might write, “The bruschetta at this Italian restaurant is a must-try. The bread is crispy, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful.”

36. Charcuterie

A charcuterie is a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and other complementary items arranged on a board or platter. It is often served as an appetizer or part of a larger meal.

For instance, at a fancy dinner party, you might see a charcuterie featuring prosciutto, salami, various types of cheeses, olives, and bread.
When hosting a gathering, you could say, “I’ll put together a charcuterie for everyone to enjoy.”
A restaurant might offer a charcuterie as a starter and describe it as, “A delicious assortment of artisanal meats and cheeses.”

37. Cheese board

A cheese board is a selection of different types of cheeses served on a platter or board, often accompanied by crackers, bread, fruits, and other condiments. It is a popular appetizer or snack option.

For example, at a wine tasting event, you might find a cheese board with a variety of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and blue cheese, along with grapes and baguette slices.
When planning a picnic, you could say, “Let’s pack a cheese board with a mix of hard and soft cheeses.”
A restaurant might offer a cheese board as a sharing option and describe it as, “A curated selection of artisanal cheeses paired with homemade crackers and jams.”

38. Deviled eggs

Deviled eggs are hard-boiled eggs that have been halved, and the yolks are mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and other seasonings. The mixture is then spooned back into the egg white halves, creating a flavorful and creamy appetizer.

For instance, at a potluck party, someone might bring a platter of deviled eggs as a popular finger food option.
When discussing party food ideas, you could suggest, “Let’s make deviled eggs with a spicy kick.”
A restaurant might offer deviled eggs as a starter and describe them as, “Classic deviled eggs with a twist of tangy pickle relish and paprika garnish.”

39. Stuffed mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are mushroom caps that have been filled with a savory mixture, often including breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and other ingredients. They are typically baked or grilled until the filling is golden and the mushrooms are tender.

For example, at a holiday gathering, you might find a tray of stuffed mushrooms as a tasty and elegant appetizer option.
When sharing a recipe, you could say, “These stuffed mushrooms are filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and feta cheese.”
A restaurant might offer stuffed mushrooms as a vegetarian appetizer and describe them as, “Mouthwatering mushroom caps stuffed with a blend of Italian herbs and melted mozzarella cheese.”

40. Shrimp cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer consisting of cooked and chilled shrimp served with a tangy sauce, usually a combination of ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. It is often served in a glass or bowl with the shrimp arranged around the edge and the sauce in the center.

For instance, at a wedding reception, you might find a display of shrimp cocktail as part of the cocktail hour appetizers.
When ordering at a seafood restaurant, you could say, “I’ll have the shrimp cocktail as a starter.”
A restaurant might offer shrimp cocktail as a refreshing appetizer and describe it as, “Chilled jumbo shrimp served with our signature zesty cocktail sauce.”

41. Crab cakes

Crab cakes are a type of appetizer made with crab meat, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings. They are typically fried or baked and served with a dipping sauce. The term “crabby patties” is a playful reference to the popular crabby patty sandwiches from the animated TV show “SpongeBob SquarePants”.

For example, at a seafood restaurant, you might see “Try our delicious crab cakes with tartar sauce.”
A food blogger might write, “These homemade crabby patties are the perfect appetizer for any seafood lover.”
In a discussion about regional cuisine, someone might mention, “Crab cakes are a staple in Maryland, known for their fresh blue crab.”

42. Spring rolls

Spring rolls are a type of appetizer commonly found in Asian cuisine. They consist of a filling, often made with vegetables, meat, or seafood, wrapped in a thin sheet of dough and then deep-fried or served fresh. The term “lumpia” is a Filipino word for spring rolls, which are a popular dish in Filipino cuisine.

For instance, at a Vietnamese restaurant, you might order “fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp and vegetables.”
A food critic might write, “The lumpia at this Filipino restaurant are a must-try, with their crispy exterior and flavorful filling.”
In a cooking class, the instructor might demonstrate how to make “homemade spring rolls with a peanut dipping sauce.”

43. Jalapeño poppers

Jalapeño poppers are a spicy appetizer made with jalapeño peppers filled with cheese or other ingredients, then breaded and deep-fried. They are often served with a dipping sauce. The term “atomic buffalo turds” is a humorous and playful slang term for jalapeño poppers, referring to their spicy nature.

For example, at a sports bar, you might see “order a plate of jalapeño poppers to share with your friends.”
A food blogger might write, “These atomic buffalo turds are the perfect appetizer for spice lovers.”
In a conversation about party snacks, someone might say, “I always make jalapeño poppers for game day, they’re a crowd favorite.”

44. Bacon-wrapped dates

Bacon-wrapped dates are a sweet and savory appetizer made by wrapping dates in bacon and baking them until crispy. They are often served as a party snack or appetizer. The term “devils on horseback” is a classic name for this dish, which originated in England and refers to the combination of sweet and savory flavors.

For instance, at a tapas restaurant, you might order “bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese.”
A food blogger might write, “These devils on horseback are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion.”
In a discussion about creative appetizers, someone might mention, “I love the combination of sweet and salty in bacon-wrapped dates.”

45. Caprese skewers

Caprese skewers are a simple and elegant appetizer made by skewering cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. They are often drizzled with balsamic glaze or olive oil and served as a light and refreshing appetizer. The term “tomato mozzarella skewers” is a descriptive name for this dish, highlighting the key ingredients.

For example, at a summer party, you might see “refreshing caprese skewers on the appetizer table.”
A food blogger might write, “These tomato mozzarella skewers are a classic appetizer that never fails to impress.”
In a cooking class, the instructor might demonstrate how to make “easy and delicious caprese skewers with a homemade balsamic glaze.”

46. Mini quiches

Mini quiches are small, individual-sized savory pies made with a pastry crust and a filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and various other ingredients. They are often served as a finger food or appetizer.

For example, at a brunch party, you might see a platter of mini quiches with different fillings like spinach and feta or bacon and cheddar.
A recipe might suggest, “Bake the mini quiches until the crust is golden and the filling is set, about 20 minutes.”
A party host might say, “I’ll be serving mini quiches as part of the appetizer spread. They’re always a hit!”

47. Meatballs

Meatballs are small, round portions of ground meat that are seasoned, formed into balls, and then cooked. They can be made from various types of meat, such as beef, pork, chicken, or a combination, and are often served as appetizers or added to pasta dishes.

For instance, at a cocktail party, you might find a platter of mini meatballs with toothpicks for easy snacking.
A recipe might instruct, “Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs and bake in the oven until cooked through.”
A food enthusiast might comment, “I love adding meatballs to my spaghetti for an extra burst of flavor.”

48. Guacamole and chips

Guacamole and chips is a classic appetizer consisting of mashed avocado mixed with lime juice, salt, and other seasonings, served with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. It is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine and is often enjoyed as a snack or starter.

For example, at a Mexican restaurant, you might start your meal with a bowl of fresh guacamole and a basket of warm tortilla chips.
A recipe might recommend, “Serve the guacamole and chips immediately for the best flavor and texture.”
A guacamole lover might exclaim, “I can never resist a good bowl of guac and some crunchy chips!”

49. Stuffed peppers

Stuffed peppers are a dish where bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a mixture of ingredients such as ground meat, rice, vegetables, and cheese. They are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Stuffed peppers can be served as an appetizer or as a main course.

For instance, at a dinner party, you might find stuffed peppers as part of the appetizer spread, filled with a flavorful mixture of sausage, rice, and cheese.
A recipe might suggest, “Top the stuffed peppers with melted cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.”
A fan of stuffed peppers might say, “I love how versatile stuffed peppers are. You can fill them with all sorts of delicious ingredients!”

50. Spinach dip

Spinach dip is a creamy and flavorful dip made with spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and various seasonings. It is often served with crackers, tortilla chips, or bread for dipping. Spinach dip is a popular appetizer at parties and gatherings.

For example, at a game night, you might find a bowl of spinach dip surrounded by a variety of dippable snacks.
A recipe might advise, “Chill the spinach dip for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.”
A spinach dip enthusiast might rave, “I could eat spinach dip by the spoonful. It’s so creamy and addictive!”

51. Buffalo wings

Buffalo wings are a popular appetizer made from chicken wings that are deep-fried and coated in a spicy sauce. They are typically served with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing.

For example, “Let’s order a plate of buffalo wings to start our meal.”
A person might say, “I love the spicy kick of buffalo wings.”
Another might ask, “Do you prefer mild or spicy buffalo wings?”

52. Pigs in a blanket

Pigs in a blanket are bite-sized appetizers made by wrapping small sausages or hot dogs in dough and baking them until golden brown. They are often served as finger food at parties or as a snack.

For instance, “I can’t resist the flaky pastry of pigs in a blanket.”
A person might say, “Pigs in a blanket are a classic comfort food.”
Another might ask, “Have you ever tried making pigs in a blanket with different types of sausages?”

53. Nachos

Nachos are a popular appetizer consisting of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese and a variety of other toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and jalapenos. They are often served as a snack or as a shared appetizer.

For example, “Let’s order a plate of nachos to share.”
A person might say, “I love the gooey cheese on loaded nachos.”
Another might ask, “Do you prefer plain nachos or ones with lots of toppings?”

54. Artichoke dip

Artichoke dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer made from artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and various seasonings. It is often served with tortilla chips, bread, or crackers.

For instance, “I can’t resist a warm bowl of artichoke dip.”
A person might say, “Spinach and artichoke dip is my go-to appetizer.”
Another might ask, “Do you prefer a tangy or cheesy artichoke dip?”

55. Fried calamari

Fried calamari is a popular appetizer made from squid that has been coated in batter or breadcrumbs and deep-fried until crispy. It is often served with marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.

For example, “I love the tender texture of fried calamari.”
A person might say, “Squid rings are a delicious seafood appetizer.”
Another might ask, “Have you ever tried making fried calamari with different spices or seasonings?”

56. Ceviche

Ceviche is a dish made from raw fish or seafood that is marinated in citrus juice, typically lime or lemon juice, and seasoned with various ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. The acidity of the citrus juice “cooks” the fish, giving it a tangy and refreshing flavor.

For example, “I ordered a plate of ceviche at the seafood restaurant.”
A food blogger might write, “Ceviche is a popular appetizer in Latin American cuisine.”
A chef might say, “The key to a good ceviche is using fresh, high-quality fish.”

57. Oysters Rockefeller

Oysters Rockefeller is a classic appetizer made by topping raw oysters with a mixture of sautéed spinach, breadcrumbs, butter, and herbs, and then baking them until the topping is golden and crispy. The dish was created in the late 19th century at Antoine’s restaurant in New Orleans, and it is named after John D. Rockefeller, who was one of the richest men in America at the time.

For instance, “I tried Oysters Rockefeller for the first time at a fancy seafood restaurant.”
A food critic might write, “The richness of the buttery topping complements the brininess of the oysters in Oysters Rockefeller.”
A chef might say, “Oysters Rockefeller is a labor-intensive dish, but the end result is worth it.”

58. Antojitos

Antojitos are a type of Mexican street food that are typically served as appetizers or snacks. The word “antojitos” translates to “little cravings” in English, and the dishes are often made with tortillas and filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, beans, or vegetables. Some popular antojitos include tacos, quesadillas, and tamales.

For example, “I love going to the food stalls in Mexico City and trying different antojitos.”
A food blogger might write, “Antojitos are a great way to sample the flavors of Mexican cuisine.”
A chef might say, “The key to a good antojito is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and balancing the flavors.”

59. Grazers

Grazers are people who enjoy eating small portions of food throughout the day, rather than having traditional meals. They often opt for snacks or appetizers instead of full meals, and they may graze on a variety of different foods to satisfy their hunger.

For instance, “I’m a grazer, so I like to have a variety of snacks on hand.”
A nutritionist might say, “Grazing can be a healthy eating pattern if you choose nutritious, balanced snacks.”
A person might describe themselves as a grazer and say, “I prefer to eat small portions throughout the day rather than having three big meals.”

60. Pickings

Pickings refers to a variety of small appetizers or finger foods that are served as a selection for guests to choose from. It often includes a mix of different flavors and textures, allowing people to try a little bit of everything.

For example, “The party had a great spread of pickings, including mini quiches, meatballs, and bruschetta.”
A host might say, “I like to offer a range of pickings to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.”
A food enthusiast might write, “I love going to events with pickings because I can try a little bit of everything without committing to a full meal.”

61. Morsels

This term refers to small, bite-sized portions of food that are typically served as an appetizer. Morsels are meant to be enjoyed in just a few bites.

For example, at a cocktail party, you might find a tray of cheese morsels.
A restaurant might offer bacon-wrapped scallop morsels as an appetizer option.
A food critic might describe a dish as “delicious morsels of grilled vegetables.”

62. Delights

Delights are appetizers that are meant to bring pleasure and enjoyment to the palate. They are often small and flavorful, designed to excite the taste buds.

For instance, stuffed mushrooms are always a crowd-pleasing delight.
A restaurant might advertise their selection of seafood delights.
A food blogger might write, “These bite-sized delights are perfect for entertaining.”

63. Teasers

Teasers are appetizers that are meant to tease or entice the appetite. They are designed to awaken the taste buds and create anticipation for the main course.

For example, a platter of bruschetta can be a great teaser before a pasta dinner.
A chef might create a special menu of seafood teasers.
A food lover might say, “I always enjoy the teasers more than the main course.”

64. Start-offs

Start-offs are appetizers that mark the beginning of a meal. They are meant to kick-start the dining experience and set the tone for the rest of the meal.

For instance, a bowl of soup can be a comforting start-off before a hearty dinner.
A restaurant might offer a selection of salad start-offs.
A food critic might describe a dish as “a perfect start-off to a memorable meal.”

65. Openers

Openers are appetizers that serve as the first bites of a meal. They are meant to open up the appetite and prepare the taste buds for the flavors to come.

For example, a plate of fresh oysters can be a refreshing opener before a seafood feast.
A restaurant might have a variety of vegetarian openers on their menu.
A food enthusiast might say, “I always look forward to the openers at this restaurant.”

66. Pintxos

Pintxos are a type of Basque tapas, consisting of small snacks or appetizers typically served on a skewer or toothpick. They are often enjoyed with a glass of wine or beer.

For example, “Let’s go to the tapas bar and try some pintxos.”
A food blogger might write, “The pintxos in San Sebastián are a must-try for any food lover.”
A restaurant menu might feature “Assorted pintxos” as an appetizer option.

67. Zakuski

Zakuski refers to a variety of Russian appetizers that are typically served before a meal or as part of a buffet. They can include a wide range of dishes such as cured meats, pickled vegetables, and smoked fish.

For instance, “We enjoyed a spread of zakuski before the main course.”
A traveler might say, “I tried some traditional zakuski at a local Russian restaurant.”
A cook might share a recipe for “Russian zakuski platter” on a food blog.

68. Sambusas

Sambusas are savory pastries that are popular in East African cuisine, particularly in countries like Somalia, Kenya, and Tanzania. They are typically filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or lentils and are often served as an appetizer or snack.

For example, “I love the crispy texture of sambusas.”
A food enthusiast might say, “Sambusas are a staple at East African gatherings.”
A restaurant menu might offer “Vegetable sambusas” as a vegetarian appetizer option.