Category: Appetisers

  • Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings

    Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings

    You are going to love how crispy and perfectly cooked these Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings are! They are so simple, and you can have frozen onion rings cooked to crispy perfection in minutes. You’ll love serving them along with a burger or as an appetizer at your next gathering.

    I am a total snacker. I LOVE appetizers. There is nothing that makes me happier than walking into a party and seeing a table full of finger foods. If you love appetizers too, then you have to try this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip, these delicious Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon, and this simple and delicious Rotel dip.

    Air fryer frozen onion rings on a plate with parchment paper.

    Frozen Onion Rings in Air Fryer

    I used to think that onion rings were only good from a restaurant. They only made sense to get from the restaurant because they were so much work at home and honestly, heating up oil has never been my favorite thing. And the frozen onion rings that you bake were always disappointing and dry. UNTIL! I realized that my air fryer would make the most perfect and delicious air fryer frozen onion rings. Guys, this is a fried food game-changer!

    It’s no secret I love my air fryer. I have SO many air fryer recipes on the blog that you have to try if you have an air fryer. If you don’t have one, you should get one! It really is possible to make healthy air fryer recipes and they are so simple and foolproof. They are crispier when you air fry them than when they are baked in the oven. These are the best frozen onion rings out there, and they are perfect dipped in ketchup or ranch dressing. I will definitely be making them again soon.

    Ingredients

    You guessed it, all you need is frozen onion rings! I like to spray my onion rings with a little oil to make them extra crispy. The oil spray is optional, but it does make them just like they are served at a restaurant. You could also drizzle a little olive oil or vegetable oil if you wanted to. Air fryer onion rings are so simple and perfect for a quick party appetizer. Everyone loves them!

    • Frozen Onion Rings: Go to the freezer section of your grocery store and grab your favorite brand of frozen onion rings. They are by far the best tasting when popped in the air fryer! I really love the ones from Trader Joe’s brand. The Alexia onion rings are also a great brand.
    • Non-Stick Cooking Spray: You will want to spray your air fryer basket before cooking the onion rings.
    Process photos showing the onion rings in an air fryer.

    How to Cook Frozen Onion Rings in Air Fryer

    The key to air fryer frozen onion rings is how long you cook them! The other trick is actually flipping them halfway through. That makes sure they are evenly cooked and crispy on all sides. If you are ready for the easiest appetizer recipe out there, then grab your air fryer and onion rings and get cooking! I love onion rings because they are always a crowd pleaser. Once you are done with these onion rings (they won’t last long!), then you’ll have to try air fryer mozzarella sticks and french fries!

    1. Layer: Layer half of the bag of frozen onion rings into the basket of the air fryer. Make sure to layer them in a single layer making sure not to overlap the onion rings.
    2. Spray: Lightly spray the onion rings with non-stick cooking spray. This gives them extra crispiness.
    3. Cook: Close the air fryer and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes.
    4. Flip: Halfway through the cooking process, open the basket and then flip the onion rings. Continue to cook to desired crispness.
    5. Repeat: Remove the cooked onion rings from the basket and then repeat these steps for the remaining frozen onion rings.
    6. Enjoy: Enjoy right away with your favorite dipping sauce!

    Tips for Making Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings

    Air fryer frozen onion rings are a simple side dish that will make everyone happy. I love serving these to my guests!

    • Serve With Sauce: I love dipping a crispy onion ring in sauce. I love making Cane’s sauce, that might be my favorite for onion rings. Other sauces I have tried are yum yum sauce, fry sauce, and garlic aioli. All of them worked perfectly! If I am serving them for a party, then I like to make a few sauces so people can choose their favorites.
    • Reheat In Air Fryer: This is so important because no one likes soggy onion rings. I have found that the perfect way to reheat them is to preheat your air fryer to 350 and then pop them in for a few minutes. Just cook them until warm and they will be crispy again!
    • Season Your Onion Rings: I really like to sprinkle some seasoning salt on the top of my onion rings when I take them out of the air fryer! I love it because it adds a little extra flavor. The best part is you can add whatever seasoning you like! If you like spicy food, then you could try adding some Cajun seasoning.

    A hand dipping them in a bowl of fry sauce.

    Storing Leftovers

    Frozen air fryer onion rings are definitely best eaten fresh. It’s not easy to store fried food because the crispy outside gets soggy when it gets cold and warm again. I shared a tip in the tip box about how to reheat onion rings for the best result. Here is how to store leftovers.

    • In the Refrigerator: You can store your leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

    Print

    Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings

    You are going to love how crispy and perfectly cooked these Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings get! They are so simple, and you can have frozen onion rings cooked to crispy perfection in minutes. You'll love serving them along with a burger or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword air fryer frozen onion rings, air fryer onion rings, onion rings
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 20 minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 2kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1- 14 ounce bag frozen onion rings
    • non-stick cooking spray

    Instructions

    • Layer half of the bag of frozen onion rings into the basket of the air fryer. Make sure to layer them in one layer making sure not to overlap the onion rings.
    • Lightly spray the onion rings with non-stick cooking spray. This gives them extra crispiness.
    • Close the air fryer and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes.
    • Halfway through the cooking process, open the basket and flip the onion rings. Continue to cook to desired crispness.
    • Remove the cooked onion rings from the basket and repeat these steps for the remaining frozen onion rings.
    • Enjoy right away with your favorite dipping sauce!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 2kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.3g | Protein: 0.04g | Fat: 0.003g | Saturated Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 0.1mg | Potassium: 5mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 0.1IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.01mg
  • Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip

    Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip

    Crockpot spinach artichoke dip is the ultimate party pleaser! Not only is it delicious and creamy, but it’s also super easy to make. Just toss all the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do its magic.

    Homemade dips are a must-make for any party. They’re easy to make (which is a win for me) and everyone loves them! A few more great recipes to try are crockpot buffalo chicken dip, hot corn dip, and this creamy chicken alfredo dip. Pair them with your favorite chips and crackers for an appetizer everyone will be drooling over.

    Crostini being dipped into a a slow cooker filled with spinach artichoke dip.

    Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip

    Dip lovers, this one’s for you! We all love a good spinach artichoke dip, but now you can use your slow cooker to simplify the process! One of the main advantages of making spinach artichoke dip in a crockpot is that it allows for hands-free cooking. Creamy, cheesy, veggie-packed goodness with minimal effort. What could be better than that?

    It’s the perfect dip for any occasion and sure to be a hit with your guests. It’s so creamy, cheesy, and has the best texture ever! So, fire up your crockpot and get ready to enjoy some yummy spinach artichoke dip with friends and family! Need more appetizer inspiration? Find my full list of homemade dips here!

    Ingredients You Will Need

    Crockpot spinach artichoke dip is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that takes only a few simple ingredients to make. The main components of the dip are spinach, artichokes, sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a great option for when you don’t want to spend a fortune at the grocery store. You can also easily adjust the ingredients to personal taste and dietary restrictions like gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-fat. Check out the recipe card below for all measurements!

    • Cream Cheese: You’ll want this to be softened and cubed so it melts evenly. Want to make this spinach artichoke dip dairy free? Go for plant-based cream cheese.
    • Sour Cream: I love adding sour cream to my dips because it gives them the best hint of tang. You can use dairy-free sour cream as well! Greek yogurt is another great substitute for adding creaminess and a tangy flavor.
    • Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the dip.
    • Garlic: Minced garlic adds the best savory flavor!
    • Cheeses: Here I used a mix of shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan.
    • Canned Artichoke Hearts: Chopped into bite-sized pieces.
    • Fresh Baby Spinach: This should be chopped as well.
    • Salt and Pepper: Add to taste!

    How to Make Spinach Artichoke Dip in the Crockpot

    By simply placing all of the ingredients into the crockpot and turning it on, you can go about your day without having to constantly check on the dip. It’s especially convenient when hosting a party or gathering, because this way you can spend more time actually socializing with your guests instead of slaving away in the kitchen! This crockpot spinach artichoke dip recipe is definitely one to have in your back pocket.

    1. Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Add all of the ingredients into a small crock pot.
    2. Cook: Then put the lid on and set it on LOW for 2 hours. After 1 hour, remove the lid, and then stir. Replace the lid and then continue to cook for 1 additional hour.
    3. Stir and Season: Stir the dip and taste. Then add salt and pepper if needed.
    4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with a sliced baguette, French bread, crackers, crostini, or tortilla chips.
    2-photo collage of dip ingredients being added to a slow cooker.

    Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Dip

    When it comes to appetizers, this crockpot spinach artichoke dip is as easy as it gets. That being said, here are a few extra tips to make sure your dip turns out perfectly!

    • Keep The Lid On: I know it’s tempting to lift the lid and check on your dip, but you’ll only want to do this once halfway through the cooking process. Leaving the lid on helps to keep in the heat and seal in moisture so your dip doesn’t dry out or burn.
    • Shred Your Own Cheese: Packaged shredded cheese is usually coated with additives that keep it from melting properly. I recommend shredding your own mozzarella and parmesan for best results!
    • Add Cheese Before Serving: If you want a delicious melty layer of cheese on top of your dip, sprinkle extra parmesan or mozzarella on top a few minutes before serving!

    Cooked spinach artichoke dip in the bottom of a crockpot.

    Storing Leftovers

    Homemade dips are SO easy to store and reheat. Keep any leftovers of your crockpot spinach artichoke dip in the fridge for best results!

    • In the Refrigerator: Once cooled, transfer dip to an airtight container and store for 3-4 days.
    • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, stirring frequently.

    Spinach artichoke dip in a slow cooker with two pieces of crostini in it.

    Print

    Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip

    Crockpot spinach artichoke dip is the ultimate party pleaser! Not only is it delicious and creamy, but it's also super easy to make. Just toss all the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do its magic.
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword crockpot spinach artichoke dip, slow cooker spinach artichoke dip
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 1 hour
    Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 262kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
    • 1 14 ounce can artichokes hearts, chopped
    • 8 ounces baby spinach, chopped
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    • Add all of the ingredients into a small crock pot.
    • Put the lid on and set it on LOW for 2 hours. After 1 hour, remove the lid, and stir. Replace the lid and continue to cook for 1 additional hour.
    • Stir the dip and taste. Add salt and pepper if needed.
    • Serve warm with a sliced baguette, crackers, or chips.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 262kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 545mg | Potassium: 236mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 3277IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 217mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Pork Wontons

    Pork Wontons

    Skip the takeout and make these irresistible pork wontons at home! They’re soft and juicy and filled with mouthwatering seasoned pork. You won’t be able to stop at one!

    I love recreating my favorite Chinese takeout dishes at home. It helps me save money and tastes better in my opinion! Try this slow cooker General Tso’s chicken, this foolproof egg drop soup, or easy fried rice next! (You can even make them to go along with your homemade pork wontons!)

    Top-down view of boiled wontons served on a white plate with soy sauce.

    Crispy Pork Wontons

    Wontons are ALWAYS on my list whenever I order Chinese takeout. Don’t get me wrong, crab rangoons and cream cheese wontons will forever hold a place in my heart, but there’s something about pork wontons and soup dumplings that is SO irresistible. Now, as we all know, takeout can get pricey so here’s a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to get your wonton fix all in the comfort of your kitchen!

    Not only do they taste amazing, but these amazing pork wontons are so simple to make. They’re fun to put together, too! My girls love filling each wonton wrapper with the pork mixture. It’s a labor of love! Once you have a batch of these soft, flavorful pork wontons ready to eat, serve them up with some sweet chili sauce or potsticker sauce for an appetizer everyone will LOVE!

    What You’ll Need to Make Them

    Making delicious pork wontons only takes a handful of simple ingredients! You may need to make a stop at your local Asian grocer for the sesame oil and rice vinegar, but you can usually find these in the Asian section of grocery stores as well. You can also find them online! I’ve linked my favorite kinds below. Note: exact measurements can all be found below in the recipe card.

    • Ground Pork: You can’t go wrong with pork wontons and dumplings. They’re just so tasty! You can also swap this out for ground turkey if you want something leaner.
    • Ground Ginger: Adds a bright, peppery flavor.
    • Garlic Powder: For the perfect savory flavor. Minced garlic also works!
    • Chopped Green Onion: Adds a pop of sharp, savory flavor.
    • Salt: Boosts the flavor of the meat mixture.
    • Sesame Oil: I love cooking with sesame oil because it adds the best nuttiness!
    • Rice Vinegar: This helps to balance out flavors and adds a bit of tang as well.
    • Soy Sauce: A must-add for salty, savory flavor! Hoisin sauce works, too!
    • Wonton Wrappers: I used small, square wrappers to keep these wontons bite-sized.

    How to Make Pork Wontons

    Not only are homemade wontons super delicious, but they’re fun to make too! There’s something so satisfying about folding up each wonton, it’s like origami! Making a batch of these is the perfect way to complete any Chinese-inspired meal!

    1. Pork Mixture: Add the pork, ginger powder, garlic powder, green onion, salt, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce to a large bowl. Mix until the ingredients are combined.
    2. Add to Wrapper: Place 1 teaspoon of the pork mince in the middle of a wrapper.
    3. Fold: Dip your finger in a bowl of water and run it along the edges of the wonton wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the meat mixture to form a triangle. Seal the wet edges together.
    4. Seal: Fold the two bottom corners in and seal them with water pressing firmly.
    5. Repeat: Cover with a damp paper towel and repeat the steps to form all 40 wontons.
    6. Boil Water: When you’re ready to cook the wontons, put 6 cups of water into a pot and bring the water to a boil.
    7. Add Wontons: When the water comes to a boil, place 6-8 wontons into the boiling water.
    8. Check if Cooked: When the wontons float to the top, the wontons should be cooked. You can check the inside of one of them to make sure the meat is fully cooked.
    9. Remove: Take them out gently with a strainer and serve them hot with a drizzle of soy sauce.
    10. Repeat: Repeat the cooking process with the rest of the wontons until they’re all cooked.
    6-photo collage of pork mince being added to wonton wrappers and folded and sealed.

    Tips and Extra Mix-Ins

    If you love pork wontons as much as I do, here are some fun switch ups to implement for your next batch! The beauty of making wontons at home is that you can customize the flavor however you’d like!

    • Adding More Flavor to Your Pork Mixture: Want to switch up the flavor of your filling? Try adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce for a pop of sweet but salty flavor! If you want your wontons to have some kick, you can also add a drizzle of sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes. If you want a touch of peppery flavor without the wontons being too spicy, you can also add some cracked white pepper to the mix.
    • Serve With: Serving your homemade wontons with some tasty sauce is all part of the experience! Soy sauce or potsticker sauce is always a must, but if you’re looking for something different try this yum yum sauce or peanut sauce! I love them both because they add a creamy nuttiness that tastes absolutely divine with these savory, juicy wontons.

    Closeup of pork wontons.

    How Long Do Homemade Pork Wontons Last?

    These always get devoured by my family whenever I make them. But if you’re lucky enough to have some leftover, you will want to keep them refrigerated for best results.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store pork wontons in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
    • Reheating: I recommend reheating your wontons in the microwave for a minute or two with a sprinkle of water over top so they don’t dry out. You can also reheat your wontons in a skillet with a little bit of water added at medium-low heat.

    If you have leftover pork wontons, they’re great for using in homemade wonton soup! It’s the perfect meal for chilly days.

    Freezing Pork Wontons

    Good news! You can keep uncooked pork wontons in the freezer to enjoy whenever you have a craving for soft, meaty morsels of goodness!

    • In the Freezer: Store uncooked wontons in a freezer bag or airtight container for 2-3 months. If you’re storing a lot of wontons, I would add a piece of parchment paper between layers so they don’t stick together. When you’re ready to make them, let them thaw in the fridge and then cook them in boiling water!

    A pork wonton being dipped in sauce with chopsticks.

    Print

    Pork Wontons

    Skip the takeout and make these irresistible pork wontons at home! They’re soft and juicy and filled with mouthwatering seasoned pork. You won’t be able to stop at one!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Chinese
    Keyword pork wontons, wontons
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes
    Servings 40
    Calories 53kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound ground pork
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 2 stalks green onion, chopped
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 40 small square wonton wrappers

    Instructions

    • Add the pork, ginger powder, garlic powder, green onion, salt, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce to a large bowl. Mix until the ingredients are combined.
    • Place 1 teaspoon of the meat mixture in the middle of a wrapper.
    • Dip your finger in a bowl of water and run it along the edges of the wonton wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the meat mixture to form a triangle. Seal the wet edges together.
    • Fold the two bottom corners in and seal them with water pressing firmly.
    • Cover with a damp paper towel and repeat the steps to form all 40 wontons.
    • When you're ready to cook the wontons, put 6 cups of water into a pot and bring the water to a boil.
    • When the water comes to a boil, place 6-8 wontons into the boiling water.
    • When the wontons float to the top, the wontons should be cooked. You can check the inside of one of them to make sure the meat is fully cooked.
    • Take them out gently with a strainer and serve them hot with a drizzle of soy sauce.
    • Repeat the cooking process with the rest of the wontons until they're all cooked.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1wonton | Calories: 53kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 89mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.02g | Vitamin A: 8IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.4mg
  • Garlic Herb Cream Cheese

    Garlic Herb Cream Cheese

    Garlic herb cream cheese is tangy and full of flavor. It’s the perfect spread for bagels or served as an appetizer with fresh veggies or crackers. It takes 10 minutes to whip up and will be the hit of your next party!

    An appetizer is the best part of a party in my opinion! I can’t get enough of all of the snack foods, especially this time of year. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer for your next party, you’ve got to try these Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon, these super simple Ranch Pretzels, and these amazing Homemade Mozzarella Sticks.

    Garlic herb cream cheese spread in a bowl with fresh herbs around it.

    Garlic Herb Cream Cheese

    This savory garlic herb cream cheese recipe is easy and so full of flavor. It’s perfect on a vegetable tray as a dip or spread on top of a bagel. It is a tried and true recipe at my house, and we make it all the time. The best part is that it takes literal minutes to whip up and everyone loves it. It’s a great way to dress up your average cream cheese dip.

    If I’m hosting a party, I am definitely going to make a charcuterie board and some party dips! I probably make crack chicken dip the most often, which is perfect served with crackers or rolls. This garlic herb cream cheese is the perfect thing to serve alongside all of that because it’s great with every kind of bread. If you like garlic, this is the recipe for you!

    Ingredients in Garlic Herb Cream Cheese

    This garlic herb cream cheese is full of delicious ingredients like dried herbs and cheeses that combine in the perfect way. Open up your pantry and double check that you have these dried herbs on hand. If you don’t, you will want to grab them from the store because you’ll want to have these herbs in your pantry anyways! They are great in so many other recipes. You can find the measurements below in the recipe card.

    Cheeses

    • Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is tangy and creamy, and the perfect base for a spread.
    • Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is sharp and full of flavor. It really ramps up the savory notes in this spread.

    Seasonings

    • Dried Parsley: Dried parsley is kind of sharp and acts like a citrus would, because it brings out the other flavors in this spread.
    • Dried Chives: I like to use dried chives because using dried ingredients means the dip will last longer. If you want to use fresh chives you can! Just know the shelf life of this spread will be shorter.
    • Basil: Dried basil adds a flavor that actually tastes sort of like mint, and it really brightens up the spread.
      Thyme: Thyme is my favorite herb! I just love the way it has almost every flavor you can think of all in one. It’s perfect in this spread.
      Dill: Dill is best known for the flavor it adds to pickles. It’s the perfect pair with the tangy cream cheese.
      Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a great addition to the spread. It’s savory and sweet and OBVIOUSLY this is a garlic spread so it’s a must!
      Onion Powder: Onion powder is an easy way to add lots of flavor to the cream cheese. You could add fresh red onions for a nice texture and flavor, but the powder works just as well.
      Salt and Pepper: This helps to ramp up the flavors in the cream cheese.
    Process photos showing the ingredients in a bowl and then mixed together.

    Garlic Herb Cream Cheese Recipe

    This garlic herb cream cheese is the perfect recipe to whip up when you need something easy and fast. It can go great along with so many different dishes because it can add flavor and variety to any meal. Even my kids gobble up anything with this spread on it. It will become your new favorite thing!

    1. Add Ingredients: In a bowl add the softened cream cheese, parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, basil, thyme, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder.
    2. Mix: Then mix with an electric hand mixer until smooth and incorporated.
    3. Season and Enjoy: Add salt and pepper to taste and then serve over bread or crackers.
    Garlic herb cream cheese spread on a butter knife with the bowl in the background.

    Additions and Variations

    The best thing about garlic herb cream cheese is that you can switch it up anytime and make it entirely new! You can add and take away ingredients to make it fit whatever you are serving it with. Here are a few different things I’ve tried that I think you’ll love.

    • Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can add such a great pop of flavor. Adding fresh herbs can make this dip spoil faster because the fresh herbs have water in them and have not been preserved. So only add fresh herbs if you are planning on using it all up in a few days. You can add fresh basil, rosemary, thyme, and dill. Or anything you feel like! Fresh chives are always a great idea because the flavor goes perfect with cream cheese.
    • Minced Garlic: This IS a garlic herb cream cheese, so you can absolutely ramp up the garlic by adding fresh garlic! I like to use minced garlic from the jar because it’s easy, or you can grind up some fresh garlic in a mortar and pestle and enjoy all of that fresh garlic paste.
    • What to Dip it With: You would be amazed at how awesome this spread is on a piece of garlic bread! You can dress up a bagel or top a crostini. This dip is great with any kind of bread or cracker.

    Cream cheese spread over the top of bread.

    Storing Leftovers

    This garlic herb cream cheese makes great leftovers because the flavors get stronger over time. It is a great one to make for the week! Here is how you store leftovers.

    • In the Refrigerator: You can store your leftover garlic herb cream cheese in an airtight container, and then store it in the refrigerator. Technically it will last until the expiration on the cream cheese. I like to eat it up before then!

    Print

    Garlic Herb Cream Cheese

    Garlic Herb Cream Cheese is tangy and full of flavor. It's the perfect spread for bagels or served as an appetizer with fresh veggies or crackers. It takes 10 minutes to whip up and will be the hit of your next party!
    Course condiment
    Cuisine American
    Keyword cream cheese spread
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 0 minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes
    Servings 8 people
    Calories 107kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
    • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
    • 1 teaspoon dried chives
    • 1 teaspoon basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon thyme
    • 1/2 teaspoon dill
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    • In a bowl add the softened cream cheese, parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, basil, thyme, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder.
    • Mix with an electric hand mixer until smooth and incorporated.
    • Add salt and pepper to taste and serve over bread or crackers.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 29mg | Sodium: 110mg | Potassium: 61mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 819IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 0.2mg
  • Easy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball

    Easy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball

    Easy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is the perfect appetizer full of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, and dried beef. Salty dried chipped beef pairs perfectly with fresh and tangy ingredients to make each bite an explosion of flavor!

    If you are looking for an awesome cheese ball recipe you have come to the right place. You should also try this Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball, this super easy Jalapeno Bacon Cheese Ball, or this perfectly refreshing Pineapple Cheese Ball.

    Chipped beef cheese ball with a hand dipping a cracker into it.

    Chip Beef Cheese Ball

    It’s no secret I’m a huge fan of appetizers! From dips to sliders, charcuterie boards and of course cheese balls, I just can’t get enough! There is nothing better in my opinion than walking into a party and seeing a snacking spread. I can’t WAIT to dive in, and so I always make sure my parties are packed with snacks. Cheeseballs are one of my favorites because they are so simple to prepare!

    There really isn’t anything to a cheese ball, and once you make it at home you won’t ever want another store bought! Homemade cheese balls are totally customizable, and you can make them exactly the way you like them. This easy chip beef cheese ball is a great first-time recipe because it is always a hit, and super easy to put together.

    Ingredients

    A chipped beef cheese ball is made up of just a few simple ingredients. It’s so important to get good quality ingredients for your final product to taste as good as you want it to. You should be able to find chipped beef at your local grocery store in the canned meat aisle. You can find full measurements below in the recipe card.

    • Cream Cheese: You will need two blocks of cream cheese, I prefer to use full-fat cream cheese. Make sure to leave it out at room temperature for a few hours so it has time to get soft.
    • Dried Beef: Chipped Beef is a form of pressed, salted and dried beef that has been sliced into thin pieces. It’s usually in a jar near the canned meat section of the grocery store.
    • Green Onions: Green onions are so perfect on the outside of the cheese ball. You will want to wash them well and slice them into small pieces so they are the perfect size.
    • Cheddar Cheese: I like to buy shredded cheddar cheese, because it saves time. But you can also get a block of cheddar cheese and shred it yourself. You will need one cup.
    • Worcestershire Sauce: I totally stand by this being the secret recipe in this cheese ball! It’s packed with flavor and perfect with cream cheese. You will definitely want to use it!
    • Garlic Powder: Garlic powder really packs great savory flavor that goes great with all of the flavors in this cheese ball.
    • Salt: I like to add a little salt to help bring out all of the flavors of the other ingredients. Because the chipped beef is already salty, you could leave it out if you wanted to.
    Chipped beef cheese ball on parchment paper.

    Chipped Beef Cheese Ball Recipe

    Get ready to be amazed with how easy it is to make this chipped beef cheese ball recipe. It’s perfect served with ritz crackers, wheat thins, or fresh vegetables. I know a lot of people who love to put walnuts or pecans in it as well. It’s perfect any way you want to make it!

    1. Mix: In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, chipped beef (reserving about ¼ cup), green onions, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Mix together until incorporated.
    2. Roll: Roll into a ball and wrap in plastic. Chill for at least an hour or until firm.
    3. Roll in Toppings: Unroll the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll in reserved chipped beef and green onions. Serve with crackers.
    Chipped beef cheese ball on a white plate with crackers surrounding it.

    Tips for Making A Cheese Ball

    Making a chipped beef cheese ball is really simple! It’s a quick recipe that you can whip up anytime you are in the mood for a tasty appetizer. It’s also a great way to use up some of those random things in your fridge before they go bad, because a lot of things taste great in a cheese ball.

    • Rolling the Cheese Ball: When rolling cheese balls I find it easiest to transfer the mixture onto a section of plastic wrap, then pulling the corners together and twisting it to easily form a ball. Then by either cutting the wrap at the base of the twist, or by simply untwisting it to transfer it to a serving dish.
    • Room Temperature Cream Cheese: In order for the cream cheese to mix well and stay creamy, you will want to make sure to leave it out at room temperature for a few hours before you plan on making this recipe. If you try to mix it cold it will be clumpy and not as good.
    • Using Chipped Beef: Chipped beef is a dried and salted meat that you should be able to find in your canned meat section of your grocery store. If you have a hard time finding it or want to use another meat, you have a lot of options because it’s great with any protein! Of course bacon is a great substitute in a pinch, or you could use any dried meat.

    Chipped beef cheese ball on a white plate with crackers surrounding it.

    Storing Leftovers

    I love this chipped beef dip because it makes great leftovers. It is easy to store and tastes great for days. Here is how to store your chipped beef cheeseball.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store your chipped beef cheese ball in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
    • In the Freezer: I also love a good cheese ball recipe because you can freeze them! It’s a great way to have them ready ahead of time. Just wrap the cheeseball in plastic wrap and put it inside of a plastic airtight bag. They will last up to a month.

    Print

    Easy Chipped Beef Cheese Ball

    Chipped Beef Cheese Ball is the perfect appetizer full of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, and dried beef. Salty dried chipped beef pairs perfectly with fresh and tangy ingredients to make each bite an explosion of flavor!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword cheese ball, chipped beef cheese ball
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 0 minutes
    Chill 1 hour
    Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
    Servings 12 people
    Calories 42kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 2 (8 Ounce) package cream cheese softened
    • 5 ounces dried beef chopped, divided
    • 5 green onions chopped, divided
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt

    Instructions

    • In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, chipped beef (reserving about ¼ cup), green onions, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Mix together until incorporated.
    • Roll into a ball and wrap in plastic. Chill for at least an hour or until firm.
    • Unroll the cheese ball from the plastic wrap and roll in reserved chipped beef and green onions. Serve with crackers.

    Notes

    Originally posted Dec 23, 2018

    Updated Jan 8, 2023

    Nutrition

    Calories: 42kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 122mg | Potassium: 34mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 144IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Crudités

    Crudités

    Crudités is a French dish that is a fresh vegetable board served with delicious dips like hummus. It’s the perfect way to add color and variety to your appetizers, and will be the star of your next party!

    I like to balance out my party dishes with this veggie board because it is light and refreshing. I always serve dips and other appetizers that can be a bit heavy. Don’t get me wrong, they are my favorite thing to make and eat! If you are looking for some other fun appetizers to serve at your next party you’ve got to try this easy poolside dip, these perfect for a crowd ham and cheddar sliders, or these crispy air fryer chicken wings.

    A crudités tray full of vegetables and hummus.

    Crudités Platter

    Don’t worry, I didn’t know how to pronounce crudités when I first saw it either! It’s a French word that is pronounced kroo-dee-teh which means a tray of raw vegetables that usually has a dip. I add hummus, because it is my favorite thing with raw veggies but a Ranch dip or a Greek yogurt dip would also be perfect. My biggest tip for making this tray is getting vegetables that you KNOW your family or friends will enjoy!

    I like to serve a veggie tray or crudités along with other more filling and hearty party dishes like jalapeño poppers and little smokies. There’s a lot to be said about crunchy fresh vegetables to break up your snacking. It’s also a great way to keep lots of vibrant colors on your table.

    Ingredients

    Crudités is a perfectly fresh tray of veggies that you can serve anytime. It’s really important that you pick vegetables that are flavorful and in their prime. A bigger cucumber doesn’t mean a better or more flavorful cucumber. It’s a great time to figure out what size a vegetable is the most flavorful and to spend a few extra minutes at the grocery store picking the best you can find.

    Dips

    • Hummus: I absolutely love making hummus at home because you can make it taste exactly the way you like. You can also get one from the store. I like to have a classic simple hummus and another more flavorful one. Whatever you choose, hummus is perfect for crudités!
    • Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Roasted red pepper hummus is one of my all time favorite hummus recipes. It’s so easy to make, and it’s full of deep and savory flavors. It’s the perfect way to spice up your veggies.

    Whole Vegetables

    • Asparagus: Asparagus has such a great flavor and is perfect for dipping! Cut the bottoms off and make sure to wash them well.
    • Cauliflower: Cauliflower is easier to eat in my opinion than broccoli, so I like to add it to my tray. It also tastes great with hummus!
    • Tri Color Carrots: I like the different colors of carrots for crudités, and they each have a slightly different flavor. I like to quarter them so that they are still long for dipping.
    • Sugar Snap Peas: These are everyone’s favorite! The pod is edible, so I usually just throw the whole pea on the plate and let my guests decide how they want to eat them.
    • Radish: I really like radishes raw. I slice them in half or into quarters so that they are easier to eat.
    • Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are so easy to pop in your mouth, and they are so juicy and refreshing.
    • Mini Sweet Peppers: The mini size are perfect for one bite, and they are so full of flavor.
    • Broccolini: I find people like broccolini better than heads of broccoli, so I always go with broccolini!
    • Rosemary, Thyme, and Sage: This is for garnish and smell mostly. It really makes the tray beautiful!

    Sliced Vegetables

    • Eggplant: I love egg plant! I sliced it into quarters the long way so they were easy to dip. If you bought an older bigger egg plant, you might want to peel it. The peel can get bitter.
    • Celery: This is the obvious classic. It’s a great one to add!
    • Red Cabbage: I like to eat raw cabbage, but I know lots who don’t. Leave this out if it isn’t your thing!
    • Cucumber: Cucumber has the perfect crunch and goes great with hummus. It always disappears first! I like to slice it into long sticks that are easy for dipping.
    • Rainbow Chard: Chard has a stalk kind of like celery and a top like lettuce. I like the rainbow variety because of the beautiful color.
    A close up of the tray and all of the veggies and hummus.

    Crudités Recipe

    You can assemble your crudités however you want. I like to arrange the veggies in different patterns and mix up the colors so that it looks interesting and appetizing. Make sure to wash your veggies really well before putting them on your board!

    1. Add Dip: On a large platter add the hummus dips.
    2. Add Veggies: Arrange the veggies around the dips and garnish with rosemary, thyme and sage.

    Tips for Making Crudités

    There is so much room for creativity in crudités! I like to make it differently every time because it keeps my family interested in it. I haven’t gotten tired of making it yet! Here are some tips for making your crudités tray.

    • How to Slice Veggies: I like to think about how I’m going to eat the veggie before I slice it. I want it to be easy to dip, and also avoid double dipping if I can! That means slicing the veggies bite size with enough room to hold onto it as well as dip it. The other thing you want to think about is how to slice it so the veggie tastes best. If you don’t like the flavor of the cucumber skin, peel it before slicing it.
    • Dips to Add: You don’t have to stick with just hummus! You can definitely branch out and just put whatever you love best with fresh veggies! A bleu cheese dip would be amazing, my family loves ranch. I make this veggie dip recipe a lot, and it’s always a crowd pleaser.
    • How to Choose Vegetables: My rule of thumb when choosing what to put on my board is what do people WANT to eat? There’s no point in putting eggplant on there if you know no one likes it! All of the veggies I chose are ones I know my family and guests would enjoy, so make sure to keep the people eating your crudités in mind when you are loading it up.

    A hand dipping a celery stick into hummus from a crudités tray.

    Storing Leftovers

    Storing leftover crudités is so simple! You can just throw some plastic wrap over the top and pop it in the fridge. Here is how to store your crudités.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store your leftover crudités by covering your board with plastic wrap or putting all of the veggies in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The veggies will start to get soft and unpleasant after a few days.

    Print

    Crudités

    Cruditès is a French dish that is a fresh vegetable board served with delicious dips like hummus. It's the perfect way to add color and variety to your appetizers, and will be the star of your next party!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine French
    Keyword crudités, vegetable board
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 0 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 0.4kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 recipe for Hummus
    • 1 recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
    • Asparagus
    • Eggplant sliced into strips
    • Cauliflower
    • Tri Color Carrots
    • Celery sliced
    • Sugar Snap Peas
    • Radish
    • Cherry Tomatoes
    • Red Cabbage sliced
    • Mini Sweet Peppers
    • Cucumber sliced into strips
    • Broccolini
    • Rainbow Chard sliced
    • Rosemary thyme, sage, for garnish

    Instructions

    • On a large platter add the hummus dips.
    • Arrange the veggies around the dips and garnish with rosemary, thyme and sage.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 0.4kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.04g | Protein: 0.02g | Fat: 0.03g | Saturated Fat: 0.003g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 1mg | Fiber: 0.01g | Vitamin A: 0.1IU | Calcium: 0.1mg | Iron: 0.01mg
  • Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

    Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

    Roasted red pepper hummus is full of vibrant and bold flavors. It’s a creamy chickpea-based dip that is perfect served with fresh vegetables or pita chips. It’s always a party guest favorite!

    I can’t resist a good dip! I seriously love making them for every party because everyone always huddles around them and people get to know each other really quickly. It’s a great way to break the ice and get people enjoying themselves, and keeping them from getting too hungry. For your next get-together, you have to try this simple Poolside Dip, this crowd favorite Rotel Dip, or this warm and satisfying Spinach Dip.

    Roasted red pepper hummus in a bowl with fresh veggies around it.

    Hummus with Roasted Red Pepper

    Ok, if you haven’t joined the crowd of hummus lovers, this roasted red pepper hummus is going to change your mind! It’s SO good, I made it for my family last week and the bowl was scraped clean. I’m not kidding. I have never seen my kids eat vegetables so quickly, it was instantly my favorite dip for that reason alone!

    I am not new to making hummus. I’ve got lots of other good hummus recipes up my sleeve, like this gorgeous colored Beet Hummus, this classic hummus recipe that also happens to be the (now second) best hummus I’ve ever had, and this satisfying avocado hummus. They have all been hits, but this red pepper hummus takes the pita chip. It’s one you just have to try!

    Ingredients

    This roasted red pepper hummus is made up of a few simple ingredients that will really blow you away. You won’t believe how much flavor you have in the dip with just these ingredients. You can always add other flavors to the dip to switch it up, but this is my classic recipe that people always ask me for. Find the full measurements listed below in the recipe card.

    • Canned Chickpeas: You will want to use canned chickpeas since they are all ready to go. You will drain them off before using them, but make sure to save some of the liquid for blending. It’s full of flavor!
    • Tahini: This adds is a delicious texture and flavor to the hummus! Try making it with my homemade recipe here!
    • Jarred Roasted Red Peppers: I prefer getting the jarred roasted red bell peppers because they are full of lots of flavor and they blend up really nicely. Make sure to drain them before adding them.
    • Lemon Juice: This recipe really tastes great with the added acid. Lemon juice brightens up the whole dish and also makes all of the other flavors pop.
    • Garlic: I used minced garlic and it was perfect. It’s got a great savory flavor with a hint of sweetness.
    • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: It’s important to use good quality olive oil because you will actually be able to taste it in the dip.
    • Aquafaba: This is just a fancy term for the water that is in the can with the chickpeas. This is to help the hummus come together nice and smoothly, and it has lots of flavor. You will want to reserve some for later when you are blending.
    • Kosher Salt: The quality of salt will make a difference in the dip. I love using Kosher, but a great sea salt or Himalayan salt would be perfect.
    Process photos showing the ingredients being blended in a food processor.

    Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe

    If you have a food processor, this roasted red pepper hummus comes together in literally 5 minutes! I’ve also made it in my blender and it turned out perfectly. There is really nothing like a homemade hummus, and after trying this recipe you won’t want to go back to store bought!

    1. Save Liquid: Before you drain and rinse the chickpeas, save some of the liquid from the can. This is called aquafaba and will help give a creamy texture to the hummus.
    2. Add Ingredients: To the bowl of a food processor or blender, add the drained chickpeas, drained roasted red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, aquafaba, and salt.
    3. Blend and Scrape: Blend until smooth making sure to scrape the sides throughout the blending process. Add more aquafaba if the hummus is too thick.
    4. Blend Again: Blend for about 30 seconds to get a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer your hummus thicker, leave this step out.
    5. Enjoy: Serve with veggies, crackers, or pita bread.

    Tips for Making Hummus

    Making roasted red pepper hummus is a total breeze! You are going to love how quick and easy this recipe is. You can always change a recipe to fit your family’s taste. Here I’ll share a few tips that will help you make your hummus like a pro.

    • Ramp Up Flavor By Adding Other Spices: Smoked paprika, sesame seeds, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper are all things I have added before and loved it! I just love a little extra heat, so adding more spicy flavors really ramps up the flavor in my opinion. I love using smoked spicy for extra smoky flavor.
    • What to Eat Hummus With: Hummus is a dip that goes perfectly with celery, carrots, tortilla chips, and of course pita chips! I really do love hummus with just about any vegetable, especially cucumbers. Any way you serve it, hummus dip makes the perfect appetizer!
    • Type of Legume to Use: If you are still wondering, yes, a chickpea is the SAME THING as a garbanzo bean! That is just the Spanish name for it. So if you can only find one or the other at the store, they are both right. Don’t overthink it!

    Red pepper hummus in a bowl with a cucumber being dipped in it.

    Storing Leftovers

    Roasted red pepper hummus makes great leftovers! Here is how you can store your leftover hummus to get the most out of this delicious recipe.

    • In the Refrigerator: It is best to store leftover beet hummus in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Hummus will thicken as it chills, so stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cold water. It will add moisture and make it nice and creamy again.

    Print

    Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

    Roasted red pepper hummus is full of vibrant and bold flavors. It's a creamy chickpea-based dip that is perfect served with fresh vegetables or pita chips. It's always a party guest favorite!
    Course dip
    Cuisine Middle East
    Keyword hummus, roasted red pepper hummus
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 148kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 15- ounce can chickpeas drained and rinsed (save some liquid for blending)
    • 2 Tablespoons Tahini
    • 7 ounces jarred roasted red peppers drained
    • 1/4 cup lemon juice
    • 2 teaspoons garlic minced
    • 3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus more for serving
    • 3 Tablespoons aquafaba (reserved liquid from canned chickpeas)
    • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt plus more for taste

    Instructions

    • Before you drain and rinse the chickpeas, save some of the liquid from the can. This is called aquafaba and will help give a creamy texture to the hummus.
    • To a food processor or blender, add the drained chickpeas, drained roasted red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, aquafaba, and salt.
    • Blend until smooth making sure to scrape the sides throughout the blending process. Add more aquafaba if the hummus is too thick.
    • Blend for about 30 seconds to get a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer your hummus thicker, leave this step out.
    • Serve with veggies, crackers, or pita bread.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 858mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 185IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Charcuterie Cups

    Charcuterie Cups

    Impress your guests with these quick and easy charcuterie cups! They’re packed with an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruit and nuts; it’s the ultimate finger food!

    I’m a sucker for good charcuterie. The beauty of charcuterie boards is that you can make so many different kinds! If you’re craving something meaty, this Italian charcuterie is the way to go. If you’re wanting something sweet, a chocolate charcuterie board is a great choice! You can also make one entirely with vegetables. The options are endless!

    Hero image of multiple charcuterie cups.

    Charcuterie in a Cup

    This recipe takes everything good about a charcuterie board but makes it into individual servings. What could be better? No more fighting over that last cube of cheese! Charcuterie cups are super easy to make and will have your guests raving. They’re also sometimes known as “jarcuteries” when served in a glass jar. Not only do they look good, but they taste even better! No matter the occasion, these charcuterie cups are the perfect appetizer choice.

    Like any charcuterie board, this version in a cup can easily be customized. I used a variety of nuts, olives, meats, cheeses, and fruit, but feel free to mix and match to personal preference! I like to add in a bunch of different flavors and textures to these charcuterie cups. This way, there’s something for everyone, no matter what you’re craving! You’re going to LOVE having these on hand to munch on before dinner. They’re the perfect option for dinners throughout the holiday season as well as game days and potlucks!

    Start With the Cups

    Any plastic cups will work, but I like to use crystal party cups because they have a nice presentation. I used 14 ounce cups to make sure they fit all of the tasty ingredients. If you want smaller portions, you can go for something like a 9 ounce cup. Additionally, you’ll need toothpicks or wooden skewers to put these charcuterie cups together.

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    The Perfect Serving Cups

    Chinet Crystal Cup – 36ct/14oz

    These cups are super affordable and make for great presentation! They’re also big enough to fit all of your favorite charcuterie goodies in.

    Everything You’ll Need to Make Charcuterie Cups

    I like to have a good mix of sweet, salty, crunchy, and soft in my charcuterie cups. Feel free to leave out anything you don’t like or add in some of your other favorite snacks! The beauty of charcuterie cups is that you can easily customize them to personal preference.

    • Nuts: I put these in the bottom of my charcuterie cups. They have the best crunch! I used regular salted pistachios and almonds here, but you can try out different flavors if you’d like! In addition to pistachios and almonds, pecans, walnuts, macadamia nuts, and cashews are all great things to try!
    • Bread: No charcuterie is complete without some tasty crackers! For these charcuterie cups I went for long, narrow crackers so they poke out of the top of the cup. Bread and crackers is a great way to play around with flavors and textures! Here, I used sesame breadsticks and tall baked crackers.
    • Olives: Skewer some olives onto a serving stick with some meat and cheese for a little extra flair! I use both black and green olives here for some variety in flavor and color.
    • Meats: Sliced meats are the best way to pack flavor into your charcuterie cups. I added salami, prosciutto di parma, and peppered red wine salame to my skewers for the best mix of salty, sweet, and peppery flavor. Pepperoni also works as an inexpensive option!
    • Cheeses: I like to have a sharp, flavorful cheese as well as a mild, creamy cheese in my charcuterie cups. I used cheddar cheese and mozzarella, respectively.
    • Berries: I used strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries!

    Extra Add-Ins

    Here are a few extra things you can add to your charcuterie cups! Feel free to mix and match. You can also create a charcuterie cup bar so your guests can make their own!

    • Veggies: They may not be for everyone, but me and my kids love adding mini pickles to our skewers! Cherry or grape tomatoes are more great things to add to your skewers.

    4-photo collage of pistachios and almonds being added to plastic cups and then fruit and meat skewers added in.

    How to Make Charcuterie Cups

    It’s SO easy. They only take a few minutes to whip up! These bad boys will impress your guests with minimal effort.

    1. Add Pistachios and Almonds: To start, add the nuts to the bottom of your clear plastic cup. Then add the olives.
    2. Prepare Meat Skewer: On a toothpick thread 3-4 pieces of meat and top with cheese cubes. Add to the cup.
    3. Prepare Fruit Skewer: On another toothpick thread the fruit.
    4. Add On Remaining Toppings: Alternate on remaining toothpicks the cheese cherry tomatoes and pickles.
    5. Top With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh rosemary.
    Closeup of a charcuterie cup.

    Tips and Serving Suggestions

    These are just a few extra ways to jazz up your delicious charcuterie cups. Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your new favorite appetizers! It’s the best!

    • Add Fresh Herbs: Not only do fresh herbs look great, but they add extra flavor and aromatics to each charcuterie cup. I love adding rosemary sprigs but herbs like basil will work great, too!
    • Other Fruits: Green grapes and red grapes are great for adding to the skewers as well as sugared cranberries for some (delicious) winter flair! Sliced apples are also one of my kids’ favorites to add to their skewers. Fruit and cheese is a heavenly combo.

    Front view of a plastic cup filled with nuts, meats, and cheeses. A skewer with a pickle, olive, and slice of cheese is being picked up.

    Print

    Charcuterie Cups

    Impress your guests with these quick and easy charcuterie cups! They’re packed with an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruit and nuts; it’s the ultimate finger food!
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword charcuterie cups, charcuterie in a cup
    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 4
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Nuts:

    • Pistachios
    • Almonds

    Bread:

    • Sesame Breadstick
    • Tall Crackers

    Olives:

    • Green Olives
    • Black Olives

    Meats:

    • Salami
    • Prosciutto di Parma
    • peppered red wine Salame

    Cheeses:

    • Cheddar Cheese
    • Mozzarella Cheese Pearls

    Fruits:

    • Strawberries
    • Blueberries
    • Blackberries

    Other:

    • Mini Pickles
    • Cherry Tomatoes
    • Rosemary for Garnish
    • Toothpicks

    Instructions

    • To start, add the nuts to the bottom of your clear plastic cup. Then add the olives.
    • On a toothpick thread 3-4 pieces of meat and top with cheese. Add to the cup.
    • On another toothpick thread the fruit.
    • Alternate on remaining toothpicks the cheese cherry tomatoes and pickles.
    • Garnish with fresh rosemary.
  • Greek Yogurt Dip

    Greek Yogurt Dip

    Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs, this Greek yogurt dip is the best addition to any veggie platter! Serve it up with fresh vegetables and your favorite crackers for a snack that’s both healthy and delicious.

    Is there anything better than homemade dip? Not only does homemade dip taste better, but you can usually throw it together with just a few pantry staples. Whipped feta dip, dill pickle dip, and smoked salmon dip are a few more great recipes to try. They’re packed with tasty flavor and elevate fresh vegetables so well! Check out my full list of dips here for more mid-day snack inspiration.

    Top-down view of Greek yogurt dip served with baked crackers and fresh veggies.

    Greek Yogurt Veggie Dip

    If you couldn’t already tell by the million different recipes on the blog, homemade dips are my love. My kids love dips just as much as I do so I make them all the time at our house! The only downside is that dips can be pretty fatty and high in calories. (NOT the best for my New Year’s resolution of eating healthier!) Good news! With this Greek yogurt dip, you get the best of both worlds. A creamy, flavorful dip that’s also filled with protein and probiotics! This dip is totally macro-friendly and the BEST way to add a pop of flavor to your favorite vegetables. You’re going to love it.

    If you’re not already convinced, this Greek yogurt dip is super easy to make too! Also, as long as you’ve got some plain Greek yogurt on hand, chances are you have everything else needed to whip it up. You only need a handful of seasonings from your spice rack! Flavors like dill, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning are what make this dip so good. Once you get a taste, you won’t be able to stop. If you’re making this dip for a crowd, you may want to double it! It goes fast. My advice? Be sure to snag some for yourself!

    Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Dip

    Greek yogurt, milk, and a handful of seasonings are all you need here. Because this dip uses such simple ingredients, you’ll want to make it all the time! Grab some sliced veggies and your favorite chips or crackers for a tasty, healthy snack! Note: all measurements can be found below in the recipe card.

    • Greek Yogurt: I used plain, non-fat Greek yogurt here to keep things healthy!
    • Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is so versatile, I love using it in homemade sauces and dips! You can buy it prepackaged or make your own blend using dried basil, oregano, rosemary, marjoram, and thyme. Find my full recipe here! I always like to make my own seasoning blends at home because they taste better and are free of additives and preservatives.
    • Dried Dill: Dill is a must-add for this dip. It adds that classic Greek flavor!
    • Onion Powder: Gives this dip a pop of sharp flavor.
    • Garlic Salt and Powder: Makes each bite perfectly savory!
    • Cracked Black Pepper: Add to taste.
    • Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the Greek yogurt dip. Any kind of milk works!

    Ready to Make This Healthy Dip?

    Let’s get started! This Greek yogurt dip only takes 5 minutes to make and will have the whole family hooked. I’ve been trying to wean my kids off of ranch dressing and this yogurt dip is the perfect solution. It has incredible flavor but is also filled with protein and probiotics for guilt-free snacking!

    1. Combine Ingredients: To a medium bowl, add the Greek yogurt, Italian seasonings, dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, garlic salt, and pepper.
    2. Mix: Whisk well until combined and creamy.
    3. Add Milk: You can also whisk in milk if the dip is too thick. Continue to add more until you reach your desired consistency.
    4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve with fresh veggies or crackers.
    4-photo collage of dip ingredients being added to a glass bowl and mixed together.

    Tips, Tricks, and Serving Suggestions

    This Greek yogurt dip is super straightforward to make, but a few simple fixes can really kick the flavor up a notch.

    • Add Lemon: A squeeze of lemon or dash of lemon pepper will give your dip a pop of tasty Mediterranean flavor!
    • Let it Chill: I always like to let my dip sit in the fridge for an hour or two so the flavors have time to meld. Similarly, you may want to go easy on the seasonings at first since it takes time for them to infuse in the yogurt.
    • Use Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs are usually what I use since I have them on hand, but if you really want to take this dip to the next level, use fresh chopped herbs! They make everything taste better.
    • Add Vinegar: If you’re a lover of tangy dips, try adding a couple tablespoons of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar!

    What to Serve With Your Greek Yogurt Dip

    The creamy, savory flavor of this Greek yogurt dip works well with so many different things. Baby carrots, peppers, sliced cucumber, and celery are a must! This dip is also great with crackers, flatbread, and pita chips. You can use this dip as a spread in gyros, wraps, and over buddha bowls as well! It’s a healthy way to add extra flavor to all of your favorite dishes.

    A carrot being dipped into the Greek yogurt dip.

    How Long Does Greek Yogurt Dip Last?

    Greek yogurt dip will last for about 5 days in the fridge. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container for best results!

    Can You Freeze Greek Yogurt Dip?

    Yes! Just make sure it’s in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good mix before you serve it.

    Print

    Greek Yogurt Dip

    Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs, this Greek yogurt dip is the best addition to any veggie platter! Serve it up with fresh vegetables and your favorite crackers for a snack that's both healthy and delicious.
    Course Appetizer, dip
    Cuisine Greek
    Keyword greek yogurt dip, greek yogurt dip recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 36kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 1/2 cups non-fat, plain Greek yogurt
    • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
    • 1 teaspoon dried dill
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
    • 1-2 tablespoons milk for desired consistency

    Instructions

    • To a medium bowl, add the Greek yogurt, Italian seasonings, dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, garlic salt, and pepper.
    • Whisk well until combined and creamy.
    • If you like a runnier dip, whisk in milk if the dip is too thick. Continue to add more until you reach desired consistency.
    • Serve with fresh veggies or crackers.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 36kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 214mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 0.3mg
  • Charcuterie Board Roundup

    Charcuterie Board Roundup

    This charcuterie board roundup has the BEST snack boards! Ranging from simple to seasonal to ones you can use for any occasion, I have a board for your gatherings all year long!

    I love a delicious charcuterie board! The creativity that you see in them, not to mention the wide array of different kinds of food, make these perfect for everyone! I especially love the seasonal ones like this Valentine’s Charcuterie Board, this spooky Halloween Charcuterie Board, or this winter-themed Hot Chocolate Charcuterie!

    A collage of 6 pictures of charcuterie boards with the words "Charcuterie Board Roundup" in the center.

    The BEST Charcuterie Board Roundup

    Charcuterie (pronounced shar-koo-tuh-ree) boards used to only feature meat and cheese (the definition of charcuterie means a collection of cooked meats)… Charcuterie boards have come a long way and are now just fancy, themed snack trays! While lots of my charcuterie boards feature the classic meats and cheeses, some highlight other delicious food such as fruit, candy, veggies, and everything in between!

    A charcuterie board is the perfect snack tray for any occasion because you can not only add seasonal foods but you can shape things to be seasonal as well! I used pepperoni to make a football in this football charcuterie, and I love making holidays festive with a wreath-shaped charcuterie or this Christmas tree board! Trust me when I say that this charcuterie board roundup is the best of the best!

    How to Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board

    To make the perfect snack tray, you need a variety of food! Here are some suggestions that you can use when making your snack tray.

    • Meats and Cheeses: The meat and cheese bring that savory taste and texture to the board. The cheeses can be cubed, sliced, or cut into shapes and placed anywhere on your board. The meat looks perfect when it is all rolled up or sliced. Or, you can go the extra mile and make some salami roses. Instructions for that are here: How to Make a Salami Rose (2 ways!). If you do this and have a variety of shapes and sizes, then you will have a professional-looking board!
    • Fruits and Veggies: I tend to use seasonal fruits and veggies for my board. This makes them fresh and easy to find. You want to pick out fruit and vegetables that are different in color and texture. Then they will really pop on this board!
    • Crackers and Bread: I love adding these neutral yet flavorful items to the charcuterie board. They will go with anything!
    • Dip: Whether you use savory dip like hummus or ranch or you want to use some delicious sweet dip, your need some dip on your board!
    • Candy and Cookies: These don’t go on every board but I love mixing them in whenever I can. This Halloween board is a great example of how to add in the sweets with the savory!

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    Large Round Charcuterie Board

    18" Round Acacia Wooden Serving Board with Handle

    This wooden board is perfect for adding fruits, candy, cheese, and chocolate to make your favorite charcuterie board.

    How to Assemble

    Assembly of your charcuterie board is the fun part! This is such a great (and delicious) way to make any season or holiday special! Change it up to make it just what you need.

    1. Dips First: Because Dips are typically in small bowls, I like to set these on the board first and then work around them.
    2. Add the Cheese: Start assembling your board by adding the cheese.
    3. Pile on the Meats: You can roll the meat up, make some salami roses, or just stack it. Whatever adds some texture to your board works!
    4. Next, Add the Fruit and Vegetables: The fruit and vegetables add some brilliant colors that make any board stand out.
    5. Cookies, Bread, and Crackers: Because these are more neutral, I like to add these in last as a filler because they will look great wherever you place them!

    New Year’s Eve Charcuterie Board

    Throw a fun party and ring in the new year with this fantastic New Year's charcuterie board! Endless options of sweet and savory finger foods will keep your guests awake until midnight.
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Garlic and Herb Bellavitano, Manchego, Garlic and Herb Brie, Fig and Grapefruit Goat Cheese, Havarti, Letter Cheese Cutter, Round Butter Crackers, Nut Thins, Rectangular Snack Crackers, Rolo Wrapped Chocolate, Chocolate Covered Almonds , Ferrero Rocher, Grapes, Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries , Dried Mango, Miniature snacking pickles, Almonds, Disco Balls, Mini Martinelli

    Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board

    It doesn't get more fun than a hot chocolate charcuterie board! Filled with all of the delicious toppings and mix-ins that any hot chocolate lover will go crazy for, this board is for everyone! 
    Ingredients: Hot chocolate mix, Large Marshmallows, Mini Marshmallows, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate Drops,, Chocolate covered pretzels, White Chocolate Pretzel Sticks, Peppermint Meringues, Cinnamon Sticks

    Valentine’s Charcuterie Board

    The holiday of love is just around the corner, and you need to try out this Valentine's day charcuterie board! It's packed with meat, cheeses and all sorts of festive red and pink fruits and candy to start the holiday off right.
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami , Grape Jam, Cherries, Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, Red Grapes, Garlic and Herb Boursin, Wensleydale with cranberries, Sharp cheddar, Plain Goat Cheese with Pink Food Coloring, Lindor Chocolate Truffles, Conversation Hearts , Cinnamon Hearts,, Chocolate Hearts

    Simple Charcuterie Board

    A simple charcuterie board is all that you need for any holiday or event! Filled with all of your favorite things, it will for sure be the star of the show! 
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Double Cream Brie, cubed, English Cheddar, cubed, Soft Cheddar, cubed, Dried Apricot, Strawberries, Grapes, Pomegranate, Blueberries, Pistachios, Baked crackers, Honey, Jam

    Breakfast Charcuterie Board

    Wake up your family or guests to the world's CUTEST breakfast charcuterie board! Filled with everyone's favorite breakfast indulgences of waffles, pancakes, bagels, fruit, and all the decadent toppings your heart desires.
    Ingredients: Mini Pancakes,, Belgian Waffles,, Mini Bagels, White Chocolate Chips, Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips, Cookie Butter, Nutella, Whipped Cream, Maple Syrup, Bananas, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries

    Fruit Charcuterie

    You will love the vibrant colors of all your favorite fruits beautifully displayed together on a fruit charcuterie board. Serve this as a perfect side dish or dessert at your next party alongside a creamy fruit dip! 
    Ingredients: Pineapple, Green and Red Grapes, Mango, Blueberries, Raspberries, Kiwi, Blackberries, Strawberries, Star Fruit, Kumquat, Pink Dragonfruit, Oranges, Fruit Dip

    Veggie Charcuterie Board

    Every get-together needs a nutritious veggie charcuterie board full of colorful vegetables beautifully displayed all together. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this healthy board of fresh veggies is a hit served with a side of hummus and ranch dressing.
    Ingredients: Hummus,, Beet Hummus, Veggie Dip,, Mini Sweet Peppers, Sugar Snap Peas, Radishes, Cherry Tomatoes, Celery, Broccoli, Cucumber, Cauliflower, Rainbow Baby Carrots, Whole Bell Pepper,

    Football Charcuterie Board

    This football charcuterie board is perfect for any of your game day or tailgate parties! It's packed with all of the perfect finger food that everyone will love and you will be making this over and over during football season! 
    Ingredients: Cheese Ball , Pepperoni, Parmesan Cheese, Carrot Sticks, Sliced Cucumber, Celery, Hummus, Ranch Dip, Stone Bread, Crostini Bread, Triscuit triangles, Ruffles Chips, Pretzels, Cheddar Cheese, Salami

    Fall Charcuterie Board

    This fall charcuterie board is easy to make and is perfect for all of the parties this season! Packed with colorful and delicious food it is sure to be a hit with all of your guests! 
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Peppered Salami, Proscuitto, Cranberry Goat Cheese, Dutch Spicy Kaas, Creamy Toscano Cheese, Beemster Cheese, Pumpkin Cranberry Crisps, Pumpkin Flavored Sandwich Cookies, Pumpkin Spice Batons, Strawberries, Red Globe Grapes, Green Apples, Blueberries, Blackberries, Pumpkin dip

    Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board

    A tribute to the Sanderson Sisters, this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board will have all of your guests dying at not only the delicious variety of food but the uncanny resemblance to some of Halloween's most famous witches!
    Ingredients: 8 ounce wheels brie, wedges bellavitano merlot cheese, cheese sticks, uncured pepperoni, blackberries, grapes, blueberries, dried Mango, figs, strawberries, pumpkin seeds, pistachios, fall leaf cookies, Halloween Oreos, whole grain crackers, Orange chocolate dipped pretzels, chocolate candy eyeballs, pumpkin gummies, black licorice, pull apart strawberry Twizzlers, Lindor Truffles, Miniature Reeses Cups, Oreos, frosting , Rice Krispie Treats, food coloring, candy eyeballs

    Halloween Charcuterie Board

    This Halloween charcuterie board is a ghoulish treat for any party! A spooky twist on your classic cheese board, it's filled with fruit, crackers, and meat and sure to be everyone's favorite!
    Ingredients: Prosciutto di parma, Italian Dry Salami, Green Olives, Double Cream Brie, Green Goddess Gouda, Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre, Merlot Bellavitano, Smoked Gouda for “Boo”, pesto, apricot jam, honey, Strawberries, Black Grapes, Blackberries, Blueberries, Dried Apricots, Pistachios

    Christmas Wreath Charcuterie

    This Christmas wreath charcuterie board is the perfect festive touch to any holiday party! It's stunning and delicious!
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salami, Garlic Herb Brie, English Cheddar Cheese, Cranberry Cheese, Cranberry Cinnamon Goat’s Milk Cheese, Strawberries, Grapes, Pomegranate, Cranberries, Blueberries, Pistachios, Candied pecans , Ghiradelli Peppermint Bark Squares, Baked crackers (any kind), Rosemary sprigs

    Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

    The cutest addition to any holiday party, this Christmas tree charcuterie board is both festive and delicious! It features a delicious mix of salami, prosciutto, cheese, fruits, and nuts, with rosemary sprigs as tree branches! It almost looks too good to eat.
    Ingredients: Italian Dry Salame, Prosciutto, Kiwis, Blueberries, Wensleydale with Cranberries, Small Mozzarella Cheese Pearls, Muenster Cheese Slices, Green olives, Almonds, Round Crackers, Pretzel Sticks, Rosemary for garnish

    Santa Veggie Tray

    Skip the store-bought platters and make this Santa veggie tray instead! It's a healthy and delicious way to add a little extra holiday cheer to all of your Christmas get-togethers.
    Ingredients: recipe hummus, red bell pepper, Mozzarella Pearls, head cauliflower florets, cherry tomato, 15 ounce can large black olives, drained, cucumber, small mozzarella pearls, sugar snap peas, crackers of choice, celery stalks

    Christmas Dessert Charcuterie Board

    If you are looking for a Christmas dessert to impress your guests then this charcuterie board is it! Stunning and delicious, this board is full of candy, chocolate, cookies and fruit for the holiday season! 
    Ingredients: Pomegranate, Strawberries, Orange cranberry scones, Molasses cookies, Large dark chocolate candy cane pretzels, Waffle cookies, Biscotti cookies, Baton wafer cookies, Chocolate covered peppermint cookies, Christmas tree cookies, Mini present brownies, Gingerbread men, Mint chocolate squares, White chocolate peppermint kisses, Wrapped chocolate balls, Chocolate orange, Mini peppermint meringue, White chocolate peppermint bark, Red chocolate covered cherries, Wrapped Caramels, Chocolate nut clusters, Homemade chocolate sauce