Planning a weekend gathering can be both exciting and overwhelming. You want to impress your guests with delicious food without spending the entire time in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, lunch, or dinner, having a variety of dishes that are easy to prepare yet delightful to eat is key. Here are seven must-try dishes that will make your next weekend gathering a hit. These recipes are perfect for any time of the day, but we’ve paid special attention to brunch appetizers to get your party started right.
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Contents
Deviled Eggs with a Twist
Deviled eggs are a classic brunch appetizer, but you can elevate them by adding unique flavors and toppings. Here’s a recipe that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
- 2 tablespoons crumbled bacon
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
Instructions
- Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Transfer eggs to an ice bath to cool.
- Prepare the Filling: Peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Assemble: Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites. Top with chives, bacon, and capers.
- Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.
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Mini Avocado Toasts
Avocado toast has become a brunch staple and for a good reason. It’s simple, healthy, and delicious. These mini versions are perfect as brunch appetizers.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Olive oil for brushing
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red pepper flakes
- Microgreens for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Avocado: Mash the avocados with lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toast the Bread: Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble: Spread the avocado mixture on each toasted baguette slice. Top with cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and microgreens.
- Serve: Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy.
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Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
This elegant appetizer is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy prosciutto and tender asparagus is irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 12 slices prosciutto
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Wrap the Asparagus: Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto.
- Bake: Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with black pepper. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature.
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Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a fresh and flavorful appetizer that requires minimal effort. They’re a great way to showcase ripe summer tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers
Instructions
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Season: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Serve: These can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
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Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a versatile appetizer that can be made with various fillings. This spinach and feta version is savory and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 24 large white mushrooms, stems removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the feta, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the Mushrooms: Spoon the filling into the mushroom caps and place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Serve: Serve warm.
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Shrimp Cocktail
A classic shrimp cocktail is always a hit at gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Fill a large pot with water and add the lemon halves and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a boil and add the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to cool.
- Make the Cocktail Sauce: In a bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Serve: Arrange the shrimp on a platter with the cocktail sauce in a bowl in the center. Garnish with lemon wedges.
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Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are perfect for brunch appetizers. They’re easy to make and can be customized with various fillings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a mini muffin tin.
- Prepare the Crusts: Roll out the pie crusts and use a round cutter to cut circles that fit into the mini muffin tin. Press each circle into the tin.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheese, ham, green onions, and bell pepper.
- Fill and Bake: Spoon the filling into each pie crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the quiches are set and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before removing from the tin. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Conclusion
Hosting a weekend gathering doesn’t have to be stressful. With these seven must-try dishes, you can create a delicious and memorable meal for your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. From classic brunch appetizers like deviled eggs and mini avocado toasts to elegant options like prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and Caprese skewers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These recipes are easy to prepare, allowing you to relax and enjoy the company of your friends and family. Happy hosting!
Sebastian is an accomplished author with a passion for storytelling. His works span various genres, from thrilling mysteries to heartfelt romance novels. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for character development, Sebastian weaves engaging narratives that captivate readers and transport them to new worlds.