64 Best Fourth of July Appetizers You Have to Make This Year

Get ready to munch all holiday long with these Fourth of July appetizers! From refreshing fruit salads to hearty chicken wings, these are the apps that'll make this Independence Day the most delicious yet.

Taste Of Home's Contest Winning Patriotic Pepper Platter RecipeTaste Recipes

These Fourth of July favorites are sure to be major crowd-pleasers for your holiday get-together. From classic dishes like chicken wings to some more daring dishes like BLT macaroni salad, we have everything you could want.

Fourth of July is all about celebrating America together, which is why we have also included patriotic-themed recipes as well. Make sure to try out the sensational watermelon feta salad that resembles the American flag. For something equally as refreshing, don’t forget about a fresh fruit bowl that everyone will love.

Jalapeno Popper Dip

This jalapeno popper dip is perfect for potlucks, get-togethers and summer celebrations. It’s a creamy and delicious crowd-pleaser. For a fun new appetizer tradition, bust out this Fourth of July charcuterie board.

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Watermelon Feta Flag Salad

Total Time 25 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: 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

Here’s a centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue. Not only is it ideal for the Fourth of July, but it’s wonderfully refreshing as well. Looking for some festive desserts? Discover our favorite Fourth of July pies.

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Cheesy Meatball Sliders

Total Time 1 hour 30 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings. Keep the seasonal sides coming! These summer side dishes are irresistible.

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Patriotic Pepper Platter

Total Time 55 min
Servings 4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Cream cheese stuffed peppers are easy to make, easy to travel with and wonderful to eat at room temperature. This platter can be made all summer long for each red, white and blue holiday! The dish also accommodates those who eat meat and those who don’t. With or without the bacon, these peppers are delish! —Tina Martino, Hewitt, New Jersey

If you want to impress your guests, set out this pepper platter on the buffet table. It doesn’t get any more patriotic than this!

You simply can’t go wrong with finger food for summer get-togethers. To save time, you can make these several hours beforehand. If you like vintage recipes, discover Grandma’s all-time favorite Fourth of July recipes.

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Spanakopita

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This easy spanakopita recipe is sure to be a hit. They’re easy to prep and they bake up in about 20 minutes.

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Homemade Guacamole

Total Time 10 min
Servings 2 cups
From the Recipe Creator: I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Nothing is better than freshly made guacamole! It’s easy to whip together in a matter of minutes.

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Fried Lemon-Pepper Wings

Total Time 30 min
Servings 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: 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 Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

These lemon-pepper wings are perfect as Fourth of July appetizers. Add grated lemon zest to the butter mixture if you want a more pronounced lemon flavor.

Discover our favorite healthy Fourth of July recipes.

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Pico de Gallo

Total Time 10 min
Servings 2 cups
From the Recipe Creator: This easy and versatile pico de gallo recipe is a classic for a reason. The jalapeño peppers add just the right amount of kick. Let it chill for an hour or two before serving to help the flavors blend. —Jeannie Trudell, Del Norte, Colorado

This easy pico de gallo recipe is a classic and pairs with most things. To allow the flavors to come together, chill for a few hours before serving.

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Florentine Ciabatta

Total Time 35 min
Servings 16 servings
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this appetizer because of my love for white pizza. I've served my ciabatta pizza at many holiday parties, and it's always a big hit among both children and adults. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut

Ciabatta pizza? Say no more! This take on pizza is a crowd-pleaser for everyone of all ages. It’s the perfect dish to take to a neighborhood barbecue or cookout.

This pizza charcuterie board might also be a hit at any Fourth of July party.

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Teriyaki Shish Kabobs

Total Time 35 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: When I was a teenager, my father worked for an airline, and my family lived on the island of Guam in the South Pacific. A friend of my mother gave her this tangy-sweet recipe, and we enjoyed it often. Now I make it for my family, and they're big fans as well. —Suzanne Pelegrin, Ocala, Florida

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Fruit Salsa

Total Time 30 min
Servings about 2-1/2 cups salsa and 80 chips
From the Recipe Creator: I first made this fresh fruit salsa for a family baby shower. Everyone wanted the recipe. Now, someone makes this juicy snack for just about every family gathering—and I have to keep reminding everyone who introduced it! —Jessica Robinson, Indian Trail, North Carolina

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Chicken Cakes with Avocado Mango Sauce

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 dozen (2 cups sauce)
From the Recipe Creator: Here's a fabulous appetizer for your next party. Or serve these chicken cakes for dinner with a side of hot rice and your favorite vegetable. —Rachael Nodes, La Barge, Wyoming

If you’ve never heard of chicken cakes, now is your time to experience them. Perfect for any occasion, these savory stuffed cakes are the perfect snack to bring to a summer gathering.

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Banh Mi Skewers

Total Time 55 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: 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

These skewers are a really fun twist! For easier prep on the day of the party, make the meatballs in advance and freeze them.

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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

You can’t go wrong with these mini burgers! These are the perfect one-bite appetizer that will be gobbled up in no time.

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Southwestern Star Dip

Total Time 30 min
Servings 2-2/3 cups
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This dip will be the star of your future potluck! It’s super quick to make, and it’s sure to be an instant hit no matter where you go.

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Peachy-Keen Halloumi Fritters

Total Time 30 min
Servings 2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Use up the season's juicy, sun-ripened peaches in this corn fritter recipe filled with gooey Halloumi cheese and sweet onions. These fritters are decadent and slightly sweet, and homegrown herbs add a fresh taste. The addition of prosciutto makes this recipe feel fancy with little effort. —Chainey Kuykendall, Richmond, Virginia

Use up the season’s peaches in this corn fritter recipe filled with gooey Halloumi cheese and sweet onions.These fritters are slightly sweet, and perfectly light and airy.

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BLT Macaroni Salad

Total Time 30 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: After a friend served this BLT pasta salad, I just had to get the recipe. My husband loves BLT sandwiches, so this has become a favorite of his. It's nice to serve on hot and humid days, which we frequently get during summer here in Virginia. —Mrs. Hamilton Myers Jr., Charlottesville, Virginia

If you love BLT sandwiches, you’ll be sure to adore this recipe. You simply can’t go wrong with bacon and tomatoes packed in a bedding of creamy macaroni.

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Quick Tortilla Pinwheels

Total Time 15 min
Servings about 5 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Prepare these easy, cheesy pinwheels several days in advance if desired. Serve them with your choice of mild or hot salsa or picante sauce. —Barbara Keith, Faucett, Missouri

Prepare these easy, cheesy pinwheels several days in advance if desired. Feel free to serve them with your favorite salsas or dips to increase the heat.

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Savory Stuffed Cherry Peppers

Total Time 1 hour
Servings about 3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Our family’s holiday dinners always include a giant antipasto, and the showpiece when we were growing up was Mom’s stuffed hot peppers on top of the display. Regardless of how spicy the peppers were, every year we would sneak into the refrigerator and steal one of those thrilling little flavor bombs! There isn’t a holiday that we don’t make them in her honor. These stuffed peppers are remarkable hot or cold. Serve with a nice loaf of Italian bread and a glass of wine. —Donna Scarano, East Hanover, New Jersey

These stuffed peppers are delicious and a fabulous appetizer choice for the summertime. They also will add some color to any potluck get-together.

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Grilled Elote Flatbread

Total Time 35 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Here's a fun twist on a classic Mexican dish! Keep your kitchen cooled down during the summer by grilling this fresh flatbread outdoors. —Amanda Phillips, Portland, Oregon

Here’s a fun twist on a classic Mexican dish! You can put these on the grill for your Fourth of July party and not have to worry about using the kitchen at all.

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Spiced Sweet Potato Fries

Total Time 25 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A spicy homemade seasoning blend shakes up everyone’s favorite finger food in this rendition of sweet potato fries. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

A spicy homemade seasoning blend shakes up everyone’s favorite finger food in this rendition of sweet potato fries.

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Coconut Chicken and Shrimp

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This tasty dish is worth the calories! The dipping sauce adds a sweet contrast to the savory shrimp and chicken.

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Fresh Corn & Avocado Dip

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 cups
From the Recipe Creator: I alter my sister's recipe by adding a finely chopped jalapeno pepper for a little heat. This tasty dip can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. —Pat Roberts, Thornton, Ontario

If you want to add an extra kick to this dish, add some finely chopped jalapeños to the mix. This tasty dip can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving.

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Easy Fried Green Tomatoes

Total Time 20 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My grandmother came up with her own version of easy fried green tomatoes years ago. Our family loves it. It's a traditional taste of the South that anyone anywhere can enjoy! —Melanie Chism, Coker, Alabama

This is a southern recipe that is sure to be a big hit with fellow party-goers. You truly can’t go wrong with green tomatoes covered in a crispy shell.

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Juicy Watermelon Salad

Total Time 20 min
Servings 10 servings
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This fruit salad is refreshing and perfect for hot days. Combine seedless watermelon varieties in yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist.

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Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket

Total Time 30 min
Servings 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: For New Year’s, I used to make pigs in a blanket with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin

This recipe is a new take on a classic dish. Kids will love these, so make sure to double the recipe!

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Chili Queso Dip

Total Time 2 hours 20 min
Servings 40 servings (2-1/2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator: I’ve had this recipe for more than 42 years and 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

This is an easy party favorite. You can’t go wrong with a classic queso dip on Fourth of July.

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Pizza Puffs

Total Time 30 min
Servings 20 servings
From the Recipe Creator: What’s more fun than a pizza puff? Skip the kind sold in the frozen-foods aisle and try this homemade version. You can substitute any meat or vegetable for the pepperoni and any cheese for the mozzarella. —Vivi Taylor, Middleburg, Florida

What’s more fun than a pizza puff? Skip the kind sold in the frozen-foods aisle and try this homemade version. Feel free to add more veggies, and if you’re a meat lover add more protein.

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Miniature Corn Dogs

Total Time 30 min
Servings about 3-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Fun-sized corn dogs add a little "wow" factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them, so expect them to disappear fast. —Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana

Expect these fun-sized corn dogs to go fast. They add a little “wow” factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them.

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Brat & Bacon Appetizer Pizza

Total Time 25 min
Servings 24 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Chopped bratwurst and maple bacon are a fabulous way to start a pizza. I jazz up this treat even more with apricot preserves and honey mustard. The snack-sized slices win over even the toughest critics. —Colleen Vrooman, Waukesha, Wisconsin

These snack-sized slices will be an instant hit in the summer. You can’t go wrong with bacon and onions inside a cheesy delicious bite.

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Fruit and Cheese Board

Total Time 25 min
Servings 14 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Who says cheese and sausage get to have all the fun? Make this fruit charcuterie board a party go-to with any that are in season. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Who says cheese and sausage get to have all the fun? Make this fruit charcuterie board a party go-to with anything that’s in season.

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Honey and Ale Pulled Chicken Sliders

Total Time 6 hours 20 min
Servings 12 sliders
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This recipe will score big for guests. Perfect from everything to a football party to Fourth of July, these sliders will be gone before you know it.

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Zucchini Pico de Gallo Salsa

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4-1/2 cups
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This salsa is refreshing and the mix of fresh vegetables make it that much more desirable. Dip chips or crackers in this dip for a party in your tastebuds.

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Chicken & Bacon Roll-Ups

Total Time 20 min
Servings 4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: My children like these roll-ups 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

These are great to make when you’re in a hurry and want something simple. But don’t worry, the flavors in here are far from simple. These roll-ups are perfect for Fourth of July and are tasty as can be.

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Smoked Gouda & Roast Beef Pinwheels

Total Time 35 min
Servings 4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Our local deli makes terrific roast beef sandwiches. This pinwheel appetizer re-creates the taste. My family says the pinwheels have so many flavors for such a little treat. —Pamela Shank, Parkersburg, West Virginia

These meaty pinwheels pack in the flavor in a small package. Set them out on the buffet table and watch them go.

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Mini Mac & Cheese Bites

Total Time 45 min
Servings 3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: Young relatives were coming for a Christmas party, so I wanted something fun for them to eat. To my surprise, it was the adults who devoured these mini mac and cheese bites. —Kate Mainiero, Elizaville, New York

Mini mac and cheese bites aren’t just for kids. Adults will love this cute appetizer just as much. It’s perfect for Fourth of July when you want something quick that will keep you feeling satisfied througout the day.

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Herbed Steak Fries

Total Time 25 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Seasoned to perfection, these herbed steak fries from our Test Kitchen make a quick and tasty side dish for casual suppers. A great way to dress up frozen fries in a hurry!

Seasoned to perfection, these herbed steak fries from our Test Kitchen make a quick and tasty Fourth of July appetizer. A great way to dress up frozen fries in a hurry!

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Greek Ouzo Pork Kabobs

Total Time 40 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: Do dinner like the Mediterraneans with these delightfully different kabobs. The ouzo, an anise-flavored liqueur, and the tzatziki dipping sauce give you a real taste of the Greek islands. —Francine Lizotte, Surrey, British Columbia

If you love Mediterranean food, this one is for you! The wonderful sauces like the creamy tzatziki will provide you with a cooling and refreshing bite.

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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

This lovely Fourth of July appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs.

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Slow-Cooker Meatballs

Total Time 3 hours 50 min
Servings about 5 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: What I love about these meatballs is that they can be served as an appetizer right out of the slow cooker, or alongside your favorite pasta. They also make a delicious sandwich. —Jason Romano, Downingtown, Pennsylvania

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Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini Peppers

Total Time 20 min
Servings 32 pieces
From the Recipe Creator: Mini peppers are so colorful and are 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

These mini peppers are colorful and the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips without the extra calories.

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Healthy Spinach Dip

Total Time 15 min
Servings 1 cup
From the Recipe Creator: 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

If you want to make a dip that’s not too heavy, this is your perfect alternative. It’s creamy, rich and packed with tons of veggies.

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Mini Chicken Chimis with Jalapeno Cream Cheese

Total Time 45 min
Servings 1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: These zippy chicken chimi bites bring a little heat to any fiesta. Serve them on their own as appetizers, or with rice and black beans for a satisfying meal. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona

These mini chicken chimichangas offer a tasty snack that will be wonderful for any summertime gathering.

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Nacho Tots

Total Time 1 hour 5 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: This is an easy, versatile party appetizer that everyone loves. If you can't find chorizo, ground beef or ground chicken are wonderful, too. Top with anything you like! —Connie Krupp, Racine, Wisconsin

This is an easy, versatile party appetizer that everyone loves. Feel free to top these tots with cheese and sour cream.

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Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing

Total Time 15 min
Servings 8 servings
From the Recipe Creator: A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois

You can’t go wrong with fresh fruit on the Fourth of July. The dressing pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the fruits.

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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

These tasty crab cakes are perfect as Fourth of July appetizers. If desired, pair them with lemon wedges for a citrus kick.

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Air-Fryer Empanadas

Total Time 1 hour 10 min
Servings 1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: I entertain a lot, so I appreciate make-ahead recipes. These air-fryer empanadas are easy and delicious. I recommend making a few extra batches—they go fast! —Lynn Scully, Rancho Santa Fe, California

These air-fryer empanadas are easy and delicious. You can also make them ahead of time, which will get you enjoying the festivities sooner.

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Quick Watermelon Salsa

Total Time 15 min
Servings 3 cups
From the Recipe Creator: 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

On hot days like the Fourth of July, this recipe will be all that you could want. It’s cooling, refreshing and a unique dish to bring for America’s birthday.

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Grilled Kiwi-Chicken Kabobs with Honey-Chipotle Glaze

Total Time 30 min
Servings 8 kabobs
From the Recipe Creator: 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

These kabobs are perfectly juicy and tender; they’re guaranteed to be an instant favorite. Plus, the spicy sweet sauce is almost good enough to drink!

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Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Chips

Total Time 35 min
Servings 12 servings (1-1/2 cups dip)
From the Recipe Creator: This air-fryer sweet potato chips recipe is so quick and easy. Be sure to give the sweet potato slices a quick soak in cold water to help remove some of the excess starch. —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois

This air-fryer sweet potato chips recipe is quick, easy and oh so yummy. Make sure to give the sweet potato slices a quick soak in cold water to help remove some of the excess starch.

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Easy Apple Strudel

Total Time 1 hour 5 min
Servings 6 servings
From the Recipe Creator: My family always loves it when I make this wonderful dessert. Old-fashioned strudel was too fattening and time-consuming, so I changed it up a bit. This revised classic is just as good as the original. It's best served warm from the oven. —Joanie Fuson, Indianapolis, Indiana

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Chocolate Chip Dip

Total Time 15 min
Servings 2 cups
From the Recipe Creator: Is there a kid (or a kid at heart) who wouldn’t gobble up this creamy dip for graham crackers? It beats dunking them in milk, hands down! —Heather Koenig, Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin

This summertime treat is delicious and easy to make. It’s perfect for kids (and adults) who want a sweet snack.

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Roasted Veggie Quesadillas

Total Time 35 min
Servings 12 servings
From the Recipe Creator: These quesadillas get their unique flavor from a special blend of roasted veggies. They’ll be a popular finger food at any gathering. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

This veggie quesadilla recipe is perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers too. They’ll be a popular finger food at any gathering.

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Cucumber-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

These are great appetizers to pop in your mouth if you want something light and refreshing. Perfect for summer, these stuffed tomatoes will sure to be a hit.

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Lemony Bacon-Artichoke Dip

Total Time 45 min
Servings 3 cups
From the Recipe Creator: Move over, spinach-artichoke dip—bacon adds much more flavor. You might want to double the recipe because there are never any leftovers. —Heidi Jobe, Carrollton, Georgia

If you’re tired of making the same dips for every Fourth of July party, try out this bacon forward recipe. The bacon adds a ton of flavor and texture.

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Creamy Crab Wontons

Total Time 20 min
Servings 2 servings
From the Recipe Creator: How about a fast festive appetizer just for two? These hot, crispy crab wontons boast a rich and creamy filling. They simply melt in your mouth. —Robin Boynton, Harbor Beach, Michigan

Perfect for Fourth of July, these wontons are crispy and full of flavor. They’ll simply melt in your mouth.

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Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce Meatballs

Total Time 30 min
Servings about 3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: The secret ingredient in this sassy sauce is the grape jelly. It's a sweet contrast with the chili sauce. —Irma Schnuelle, Manitowoc, Wisconsin

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Eggplant Parmesan Sliders

Total Time 1 hour
Servings 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator: I wanted something that was easy for guests to grab, and vegetarian friendly. The lemon ricotta spread really adds a level of flavor to these delicious bites. Be sure not to rush the eggplant; it’s important to cook it until it’s buttery and tender. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas

These eggplant parmesan sliders are easy for guests to grab (and are vegetarian-friendly!). The lemon-ricotta spread really adds a level of flavor and intensity to these delicious bites.

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Hot Cheese Dip

Total Time 30 min
Servings 3 cups
From the Recipe Creator: When a colleague brought this cheesy dip to school for a teachers potluck, I immediately gave it an A+. I had to have the recipe for this irresistibly creamy recipe to make for my family! —Ardyce Piehl, Poynette, Wisconsin

This dip is creamy, cheesy and frankly irresistible. Not only will adults be coming back for seconds, but kids will also love it.

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Eggplant Flatbread Pizzas

Total Time 30 min
Servings 4 servings
From the Recipe Creator: 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

If you’re looking to make something everyone will love, look no further than this recipe. It’s a unique twist on a classic and is surprisingly simple to make.

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Caprese Salad Kabobs

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

If you love kabobs, try out this Caprese version for a lighter dish. The balsamic adds a tangy and sweet flavor and balances out the mozzarella cheese and tomatoes.

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Chili-Lime Roasted Chickpeas

Total Time 50 min
Servings 2 cups
From the Recipe Creator: 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

This zesty, crunchy chickpea recipe will have everyone happily munching. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something light and easy to make.

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Fresh Fruit Bowl

Total Time 15 min
Servings 16 servings
From the Recipe Creator: The glorious colors of the fruit make this a festive salad. Slightly sweet and chilled, it makes a nice accompaniment to a grilled entree. —Marlon Kirst, Troy, Michigan

The beautiful colors of the fruit make this bowl a stunning dish to bring to any summer potluck. It’s simple, easy, refreshing and perfectly juicy.