You'll say "I do" to these tasty bridal shower appetizers.
42 Elegant Bridal Shower Appetizers
Garlic Tomato Bruschetta
This appetizer or side dish makes a crispy complement to any Italian entree. I just started with my grandmother’s bruschetta recipe and added fresh tomatoes! It’s one of the yummiest bruschetta recipes I’ve found. —Jean Franzoni, Rutland, Vermont
1/41
2/41
Fruit and Cheese Platter
Total Time
25 min
Servings
14 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
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 Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 304 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein.
3/41
Almond-Bacon Cheese Crostini
Total Time
45 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
For a change from the usual toasted tomato appetizer, try this baked crostini recipe. If you like, slice the baguette at an angle instead of making a straight cut. —Leondre Hermann, Stuart, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 120 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
4/41
Caprese Skewers
Total Time
10 min
Servings
12 kabobs
From the Recipe Creator:
Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
5/41
So Very Berry Brie
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I needed to make something quick for a wine and cheese party, and had a bounty of berries on hand. My creation went great with all the wines and looked so much more impressive than the other plain cheeses! —Kristin Larson-Jantzi, Newton, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 160 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
6/41
Mini Muffuletta
Total Time
25 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Mediterranean meets comfort food when French rolls are slathered with olive spread and stuffed with layers of salami and cheese. You can make these muffulettas the night before and cut them into appetizer-sized slices just before serving. —Gareth Craner, Minden, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 119 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 537mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
7/41
Balsamic-Goat Cheese Grilled Plums
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Make a bold statement with this simple yet elegant treat. Ripe plums are grilled and then dressed with a balsamic reduction and tangy goat cheese. —Ariana Abelow, Holliston, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 plum half with 1 tablespoon cheese and 2 teaspoons glaze: 58 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 41mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
8/41
Christmas Meatballs
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Cranberry sauce and brown sugar create a tangy glaze for moist meatballs that are good Christmas appetizers or Christmas dinner ideas. We love them so much, I prepare them year-round. —Joyce Bentley, Redlands, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 71 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 190mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
9/41
Shrimp & Cucumber Rounds
Total Time
25 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I always make these appetizers for our get-togethers. They're easy to prepare and a snappy addition to any party. —Kelly Alaniz, Eureka, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 20 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 38mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
10/41
Mini Cheese Balls
Total Time
30 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for any party. Roll them in toasted sesame seeds, fresh rosemary and/or paprika to add even more flavor. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cheese ball: 47 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
11/41
Fruit Skewers
Total Time
20 min
Servings
12 kabobs (1-1/2 cups dip)
From the Recipe Creator:
We came up with this fresh and fruity summer snack idea. It's easy to make ahead and carry to the ballpark, beach or playground, and the cinnamon-spiced yogurt dip adds a fun touch kids love. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob with 2 tablespoons dip: 147 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
12/41
Herbed Leek Tarts
Total Time
45 min
Servings
2 tarts (8 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
This savory, nontraditional tart is a favorite among our family and friends! —Jean Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 194 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 177mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
13/41
Avocado Deviled Eggs
Total Time
20 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
When you’re in the mood for some good finger food, try any one of these sinfully delicious variations on deviled eggs. They are a cinch to fill and make a popular contribution to a potluck or brunch. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed egg half: 42 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 79mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
14/41
Roasted Beets with Orange Gremolata and Goat Cheese
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandma always grew beets then pickled or canned them, but I prefer to prepare them differently. I love these roasted beets in the winter but they can be enjoyed all year with the addition of fresh herbs and tangy goat cheese. —Courtney Archibeque, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 49 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 157mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
15/41
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Total Time
55 min
Servings
about 5 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Whenever I attend a potluck, folks always ask me to make my bacon-wrapped water chestnut recipe—it's become my trademark. I especially like to prepare them for holiday gatherings. —Debi Jellison, Jacksonville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 33 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 92mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
16/41
Cranberry and Bacon Swiss Cheese Dip
Total Time
45 min
Servings
3 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
This warm, rich and creamy Swiss cheese dip is guaranteed to please family and friends alike. Served with thin, crunchy slices of French bread, it makes the perfect appetizer—especially since it can be prepared ahead, put in the fridge, and then baked just before you want to serve it. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 266 calories, 22g fat (8g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 222mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
17/41
Ham ‘n’ Cheese Biscuit Stacks
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
40 appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
These finger sandwiches are filling enough to satisfy hearty appetites. I've served the fun little stacks at every event, including holiday gatherings, showers and tailgate parties. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 121 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 412mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
18/41
Watermelon Cups
Total Time
25 min
Servings
16 pieces
From the Recipe Creator:
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 Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 7 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
19/41
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Total Time
30 min
Servings
3 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
My son taught me how to make hummus, which is a tasty and healthy alternative to calorie-filled dips. Fresh roasted red bell peppers make it special. —Nancy Watson-Pistole, Shawnee, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 113 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 339mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 fat, 1 starch.
20/41
Shrimp Tartlets
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Mini tart shells filled with a cream cheese mixture, topped with seafood sauce and shrimp make for a picture-perfect, tasty appetizer. You could also serve several as a fast, light meal. —Gina Hutchison, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 tartlet: 61 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
21/41
Antipasto Skewers
Total Time
35 min
Servings
40 appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 66 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 315mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
22/41
Tuscan Truffles
Total Time
25 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
For holiday potlucks, I make an appetizer truffle out of prosciutto, figs and toasted pine nuts. Mascarpone and goat cheese make them melt-in-your-mouth creamy. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 80 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
23/41
Brie Puff Pastry
Total Time
35 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband was in the Air Force, so we've entertained guests all over the United States. I acquired this recipe while in California. It's one of my favorite special appetizers. —Sandra Twait, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 328 calories, 22g fat (10g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 424mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
24/41
Mini Burgers with the Works
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 68 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
25/41
Brie Cherry Pastry Cups
Total Time
30 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Golden brown and flaky, these bite-sized puff pastries with creamy Brie and sweet cherry preserves could easily double as a scrumptious dessert. —Marilyn McSween, Mentor, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 pastry cup: 61 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 42mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
26/41
Shrimp Appetizer Spread
Total Time
20 min
Servings
20 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
There's no secret to this creamy seafood appetizer—it's simply delicious! I originally tasted it at a friend's house, and I liked it so much that I requested the recipe. It's since become a family favorite. —Brenda Buhler, Abbotsford, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 136 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
27/41
Feta Bruschetta
Total Time
30 min
Servings
10 appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
You won't believe the compliments you'll receive when you greet guests with these warm appetizers. Every crispy bite offers the savory tastes of feta cheese, tomatoes, basil and garlic. They're terrific for holiday parties or most any gathering. —Stacey Rinehart, Eugene, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 296 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 547mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
28/41
Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
Total Time
10 min
Servings
1-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
This festive dip is a snap to make, taking only 10 minutes from start to finish. Thanks to its hint of sweetness, both kids and adults will gobble it up. —Frankie Robinson, Lockhart, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 76 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 84mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
29/41
Dill Vegetable Dip
Total Time
5 min
Servings
1-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me this zesty dip recipe many years ago, and now I serve it at our annual holiday open house. To make it mobile, spoon a serving of the dip in the bottom of a small cup, then garnish with fresh veggies. —Karen Gardiner, Eutaw, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 107 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
30/41
Apple Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 cups salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Both my husband and I were raised on farms, and we prefer home cooking to eating out. That works out fine since I love trying new recipes! I’ve served this apple salsa as an appetizer and a snack. Plus, it’s sweet enough to be a dessert. —Carolyn Brinkmeyer, Golden, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
4 chips with 1/4 cup salsa: 121 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 126mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
31/41
Bacon-Stuffed Mushrooms
Total Time
25 min
Servings
about 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I first tried these bubbly treats at my sister-in-law's house. The tender mushroom caps and creamy filling were so fabulous that I had to get the recipe. It's hard to believe how simple, fast and easy they are. —Angela Coffman, Kansas City, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed mushroom: 51 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 79mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
32/41
Dijon-Bacon Dip for Pretzels
Total Time
5 min
Servings
1-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoon: 154 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
33/41
Goat Cheese & Onion Pastries
Total Time
50 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
A flaky puff pastry crust holds sweet caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese for an easy yet upscale appetizer. The recipe is a must on all our entertaining menus. —Heidi Ellis, Monument, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 168 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 186mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
34/41
Chive Crab Cakes
Total Time
30 min
Servings
12 crab cakes
From the Recipe Creator:
These tasty crab cakes are perfect for appetizers, or try them with a salad for a light meal. —Cindy Worth, Lapwai, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 crab cake: 119 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 509mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 13g protein.
35/41
Bacon Water Chestnut Wraps
Total Time
50 min
Servings
about 2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
The holidays around the house just wouldn't be the same without these classic wraps. Through the years, Christmas Eve guests have proven it's impossible to eat just one. —Laura Mahaffey, Annapolis, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 75 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 148mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
36/41
Honey Garlic Meatballs
Total Time
40 min
Servings
5-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I raise cattle on our farm here in southwestern Ontario, so it's no surprise that we're fond of these saucy meatballs. I know your family will like them, too. —Marion Foster, Kirkton, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 48 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 172mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
37/41
Mini Sausage Quiches
Total Time
45 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These bite-sized quiches are loaded with sausage and cheese—and all nestled into easy crescent roll dough. Serve the cute muffinettes at any brunch or potluck gathering. —Jan Mead, Milford, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini quiche: 66 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
38/41
Mini Hot Browns
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my take on the famous Hot Brown sandwich. Guests quickly saddle up for juicy turkey slices and crispy bacon piled on toasted rye bread and then topped with a rich cheese sauce. —Annette Grahl, Midway, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 98 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 246mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
39/41
Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Total Time
25 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
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
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed tomato: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fat.
40/41
Baked Crab Dip
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
5 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
We enjoyed this exquisite dip at my grandson's wedding reception. It looks fancy but is easy to make. You can even make this crab dip recipe ahead of time by filling the bread bowl early in the day and chilling it until serving. Just remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. —Marie Shelley, Exeter, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 100 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
41/41
Mini Spinach Frittatas
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
People can't get enough of these pop-in-your-mouth mini frittatas. They're a cinch to make, freeze well and the recipe easily doubles for a crowd. —Nancy Statkevicus, Tucson, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini frittata: 128 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 396mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.