The Best Appetizer & Snack Recipes for Any Occasion - Foxes Love Lemons https://foxeslovelemons.com/recipes/party-bites/ simple, yet special, recipes for the home chef. Wed, 19 Feb 2025 11:00:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://foxeslovelemons.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/favicon-200x200.ico The Best Appetizer & Snack Recipes for Any Occasion - Foxes Love Lemons https://foxeslovelemons.com/recipes/party-bites/ 32 32 Easy Lebanese Kafta Recipe https://foxeslovelemons.com/lebanese-beef-kafta-dogs/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/lebanese-beef-kafta-dogs/#comments Wed, 19 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=6321 This Beef Kafta Recipe turns a classic Lebanese dish into something possible at home on a weeknight. The succulent grilled meat kabobs are flavored with garlic, onions and lots of dried herbs and spices. Serve simply with yogurt dipping sauce, or bowl-style for a larger meal. “Great kafta and yogurt sauce recipes! I made [this] […]

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This Beef Kafta Recipe turns a classic Lebanese dish into something possible at home on a weeknight. The succulent grilled meat kabobs are flavored with garlic, onions and lots of dried herbs and spices. Serve simply with yogurt dipping sauce, or bowl-style for a larger meal.

A large platter filled with kafta skewers, vegetables and a creamy dipping sauce.

“Great kafta and yogurt sauce recipes! I made [this] with ground chicken, and it was really delicious, definitely a keeper! I doubled the recipe, which was a good decision because we had enough for lunches plus a container to freeze and enjoy later on.”

—Michele

If you’ve seen the term “kafta” or “kofta” on a Lebanese restaurant menu and have been unsure of what it might be or if you’d like it, this post is for you!

To quickly explain, this dish is a mixture of ground beef and/or lamb, mixed with onion and spices, formed into a patty, log or meatball, and then grilled.

Even if this is your first time hearing this term, I’m here to convince you that this dish is a great make-at-home weeknight dinner with huge flavor!

It can be made with your choice of ground meat, it comes together in about 30 minutes, and you can serve it on its own with side dishes of your choice, or bowl-style with rice, a fresh salad, and pita bread.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Kafta Recipe

  • Both the meat mixture and the yogurt sauce can be made the night before, making this even faster for a weeknight.
  • Sub ground lamb, chicken or turkey for the beef if you prefer!
  • Great for dinner, but works really well as a party appetizer too. Everybody love kabobs with dipping sauce.
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Easy Cannoli Dip https://foxeslovelemons.com/cannoli-dip/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/cannoli-dip/#comments Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=26876 Cannoli Dip comes together in 5 minutes with just 5 ingredients. It’s super easy to halve the recipe for a small group, or double it for a large party. This Recipe For Cannoli Dip Is Perfect For Your Sweet Tooth! A perfect cannoli is one of my favorite desserts, and also one of the most […]

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Cannoli Dip comes together in 5 minutes with just 5 ingredients. It’s super easy to halve the recipe for a small group, or double it for a large party.

A bowl of cannoli dip on a platter with waffle pieces, graham crackers and strawberries.

This Recipe For Cannoli Dip Is Perfect For Your Sweet Tooth!

A perfect cannoli is one of my favorite desserts, and also one of the most hard-to-find. It’s not exactly easy finding a great cannoli in the Detroit area. So unless I’m boarding a flight to Boston, it’s a dessert that lives largely in my dreams.

Sure, I could make them at home. But, making them from scratch is pretty labor intensive and not something I usually have time for.

So, I created this Cannoli Dip recipe as a simple way to enjoy some of the *flavors* of cannoli with minimal effort.

The mascarpone, ricotta and lightly sweet vanilla flavor are all there. The crunchy mini chocolate chips are bountiful (and, you can add chopped pistachios if you want). Truly, it’s like 98% as satisfying as a cannoli, and well, that’s good enough for me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe For Cannoli Dip

  • A chance to have fun with all kinds of cookies, crackers and fruits for dipping. Go to the store and let your imagination run wild.
  • Enjoy some of the classic flavors and creamy texture of cannoli without the hassle of making and filling the shells.
  • Very easy to adapt to whatever size you need. Halve the recipe to feed a small group of 2 or 3, or double or triple it for a big party.
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Coconut Fried Shrimp https://foxeslovelemons.com/coconut-shrimp/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/coconut-shrimp/#respond Mon, 03 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=64836 Coconut Fried Shrimp are a restaurant indulgence that are even BETTER at home. Juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp are coated in a crunchy golden crust of panko breadcrumbs and tropical coconut that is sweet but not too sweet. This Coconut Shrimp Recipe Is Better Than Any Restaurant Version! Coconut shrimp is a popular restaurant indulgence, for […]

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Coconut Fried Shrimp are a restaurant indulgence that are even BETTER at home. Juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp are coated in a crunchy golden crust of panko breadcrumbs and tropical coconut that is sweet but not too sweet.

A finished coconut shrimp recipe being served with lime wedges.

This Coconut Shrimp Recipe Is Better Than Any Restaurant Version!

Coconut shrimp is a popular restaurant indulgence, for good reason. When it’s good, it’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, and the shrimp have a crispy golden brown coating while still being juicy and tender on the inside.

But the truth is that this dish is sometimes a letdown at restaurants. Either they’re overly fried, or soggy, or they just don’t make it to your table fast enough to be at their best (like, you can tell they’ve sat under a warmer for a few minutes, you know?).

Once you try this coconut shrimp recipe at home, you might never feel the need to order it out again. The perfect combination of panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut gives you maximum crunch and the right amount of sweetness. And your dining room table being steps from your kitchen means you’ll get the freshest, crispiest shrimp possible!

Heads up! Coconut Shrimp is best served with a dipping sauce, and we have the best four-ingredient recipe. The Thai sweet chili sauce makes it!

Why You’ll Love Coconut Fried Shrimp

  • Save money by making this crowd-favorite dish at home anytime you want.
  • It’s great as an appetizer, main course or a little side dish addition to a tropical-inspired meal.
  • SO CRISPY, thanks to the panko breadcrumbs and being able to eat the shrimp as soon as they come out of the frying oil!
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Hot Crab Rangoon Dip https://foxeslovelemons.com/crab-rangoon-dip/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/crab-rangoon-dip/#comments Mon, 23 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=63684 This Crab Rangoon Dip is everything you love about your favorite takeout treat, but in a creamy, shareable dip that is MUCH easier to make than individual rangoons. “Dip goes fast and can be used for any celebration!” This Crab Rangoon Dip With Wonton Chips Is A Party Favorite! If you love ordering crab rangoon […]

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This Crab Rangoon Dip is everything you love about your favorite takeout treat, but in a creamy, shareable dip that is MUCH easier to make than individual rangoons.

A dish of crab rangoon dip on a tray with wonton chips.

“Dip goes fast and can be used for any celebration!”

—Jill

This Crab Rangoon Dip With Wonton Chips Is A Party Favorite!

If you love ordering crab rangoon as a takeout treat, you’ll be obsessed with this hot, creamy crab dip version.

It’s everything you love about the appetizer – creamy crab filling, sweet chili sauce and crispy wontons, but it’s a shareable dish that is MUCH easier to make for a gathering than individual rangoons.

I tested this recipe a bunch of times to get it just right for you. I wanted the right combination of meaty crab to creamy elements, and a layer of sweet chili sauce that added lots of flavor without being too spicy.

The recipe below is ready to be the ultimate party snack that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You Will Love This Rangoon Dip Recipe

  • Creamy, cheesy and full of flavor, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
  • Wonton chips are ideal, but it pairs wonderfully with other things like veggies, crackers, or bread.
  • You can mix everything together ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve – making hosting stress-free.
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Mediterranean Meatballs https://foxeslovelemons.com/greek-chicken-meatballs/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/greek-chicken-meatballs/#comments Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/2013/12/05/greek-chicken-meatballs/ These Greek Chicken Meatballs with herby yogurt dipping sauce are a recipe that can do double duty as a healthy dinner, or as a party bite that can be kept warm in a slow cooker! These Ground Chicken Meatballs are Award Winning! “I have made this recipe so many times in the last year, I […]

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These Greek Chicken Meatballs with herby yogurt dipping sauce are a recipe that can do double duty as a healthy dinner, or as a party bite that can be kept warm in a slow cooker!

A black bowl filled with herby yogurt sauce and Greek chicken meatballs, with a spoon digging in.

These Ground Chicken Meatballs are Award Winning!

“I have made this recipe so many times in the last year, I don’t even need to look at it anymore. The whole family enjoys them too; you can throw them in a marinara sauce and use them in a meatball sub, or with pasta, or even cold leftovers out of the fridge!”

—Sharon

If you’re looking for a recipe for ground chicken meatballs, you’ve landed in the right place. This recipe stands out – so much so that it was crowned a Community Pick in a chicken recipe contest at Food52.

Praise for being “as refreshing as it is easy to pull together,” these Greek chicken meatballs have earned their place as a fan favorite.

I make these meatballs countless times each year, whether for a festive New Year’s Eve gathering, or as a frequent part of my weekly dinner rotation.

Their versalitity is unmatched: bake or air fry them to perfection, then pair with tangy feta, orzo pasta, or creamy tzatziki sauce for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy.

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Meatballs

  • They require just a simple list of ingredients, and most things you may already have in your fridge or pantry.
  • They freeze beautifully, so they’re a great option for meal prep.
  • Can easily kept warm for a party in a slow cooker on the “low” or “warm” setting with a bit of chicken broth or water in the bottom.
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Charcuterie Cup Ideas https://foxeslovelemons.com/charcuterie-party-cups/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/charcuterie-party-cups/#comments Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=4774 The options are limitless with these Individual Charcuterie Cups. Grab some plastic cups and load them up with meat, cheese, fruit and all sorts of garnishes. Perfect for holidays and game day! “I made these for a potluck and they were a huge success. I brushed the bottom of the cups with a little fig […]

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The options are limitless with these Individual Charcuterie Cups. Grab some plastic cups and load them up with meat, cheese, fruit and all sorts of garnishes. Perfect for holidays and game day!

Charcuterie cups built in small clear plastic cups, made with salami, ham, cheeses, fresh and dried fruit, breadsticks and herbs.

“I made these for a potluck and they were a huge success. I brushed the bottom of the cups with a little fig jam and added touch of high quality mustard on them after they were constructed. Delicious!”

—Diane

DIY Charcuterie Cups: A Single Serve Charcuterie Board

All the way from a Thanksgiving board to a charcuterie chalet and many stops in between, there’s no denying that this time of year is perfect for as many unique charcuterie board ideas as you can dream up.

Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or just having some snacks at home, this type of food is probably at its most popular during the holidays, but is a great idea for a gathering any time of year (bridal and baby showers, in particular).

I’ve made charcuterie cups for a ton of get-togethers, and below I’m sharing all of the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way, as well as recommendations for the best things to include in your cups.

Why You’ll Love These Individual Charcuterie Cups

  • Super customizable, so it’s easy to tailor each cup to suit dietary preferences. If you have one guest with an allergy, you can set aside a safe cup just for them.
  • No need for plates or utensils, making cleanup after your party a breeze.
  • You can build the cups with most of the elements up to a day in advance, allowing you more time to focus on other preparations for your party.
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Easy Baked Brie Recipes https://foxeslovelemons.com/savory-baked-brie/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/savory-baked-brie/#comments Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=25780 Baked Brie is the ultimate elegant-but-easy party food. From jam to bacon to nuts to pesto, these recipes will show you all the ways you can top this gooey, delightful cheese. You Will Love These Brie Cheese Recipes Baked Brie is the ultimate payoff for the smallest amount of work possible. In truth, you could […]

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Baked Brie is the ultimate elegant-but-easy party food. From jam to bacon to nuts to pesto, these recipes will show you all the ways you can top this gooey, delightful cheese.

The best baked brie recipe, topped with pesto and garlic cloves on a platter with charcuterie and crackers.

You Will Love These Brie Cheese Recipes

Baked Brie is the ultimate payoff for the smallest amount of work possible. In truth, you could simply pop a completely plain round of brie into the oven for a few minutes, pair it with a sleeve of crackers, and call it a party (and please invite me if you do).

But the great thing about brie is that even though it has that funky cheese flavor that so many of us love, it’s also a great cheese to pair with other flavors and textures.

The toppings are where you can get creative with this easy appetizer and add crunch, sweetness, spice, or a combination of all three.

The list of recipes I’ve compiled below are some of my favorites from around the internet. All involve a minimal amount of work for a huge flavor payoff.

I’m also including my own recipe for baked brie topped with the best homemade pesto and roasted garlic below.

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Charcuterie Board Ideas For Thanksgiving https://foxeslovelemons.com/thanksgiving-charcuterie-board/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/thanksgiving-charcuterie-board/#comments Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=36289 Use some shortcuts from the grocery store to put together everything on this Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board in 30 minutes or less, with the beautiful colors and flavors of autumn. Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board Ideas For Your Holiday Spread With years of experience crafting beautiful, seasonally inspired charcuterie boards, I know that it’s all about getting the […]

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Use some shortcuts from the grocery store to put together everything on this Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board in 30 minutes or less, with the beautiful colors and flavors of autumn.

A Thanksgiving charcuterie board, including cured meats, cheeses, nuts, olives, fruit and crackers, arranged on a large wooden cutting board.

Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board Ideas For Your Holiday Spread

With years of experience crafting beautiful, seasonally inspired charcuterie boards, I know that it’s all about getting the right combination of flavors and textures.

A beautiful Thanksgiving charcuterie board welcomes guests to the celebration and sets the tone for the rest of the meal.

Whether you’re a charcuterie enthusiast or beginner looking for ideas, I’ll guide you step-by-step through my approach to selecting, arranging and styling a charcuterie board perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall get-together.

Why You’ll Love These Thanksgiving Board Ideas

  • Lots of fall flavors and colors!
  • Easy to assemble and customize, and there’s something for everyone – sweet, savory, or a mix of both.
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Crab Stuffed Mushrooms https://foxeslovelemons.com/crab-stuffed-mushrooms/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/crab-stuffed-mushrooms/#comments Mon, 11 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/?p=62337 Treat yourself to elegant but easy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Packed with crab meat, the creamy filling is rich, super flavorful and never watery! “Sooooo delicious! I’ve made various fillings for mushrooms in the past, but crab was a first for me. YUM!!!!! I made no changes to the ingredients.” This Crab Stuffed Mushroom Recipe is […]

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Treat yourself to elegant but easy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Packed with crab meat, the creamy filling is rich, super flavorful and never watery!

Crab stuffed mushrooms on a gray platter.

“Sooooo delicious! I’ve made various fillings for mushrooms in the past, but crab was a first for me. YUM!!!!! I made no changes to the ingredients.”

—Cindy

This Crab Stuffed Mushroom Recipe is an Upgraded Classic

Stuffed mushrooms aren’t anything new on the appetizer scene, but in my opinion, they’ve needed improvement for a long time.

The biggest problems I’ve come across with other recipes – watery mushrooms and lack of flavor – are both easily addressed.

The watery situation can be fixed by understanding which mushrooms are the best choice for stuffed mushrooms, and knowing how to cook them to release any excess moisture before they get to the serving platter.

And you know that nothing around here lacks flavor. A few pantry ingredients like lemon zest and Old Bay seasoning go a long way to make these the absolute best crab stuffed mushrooms you’ve ever had.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab Meat

  • If you’ve ever had a wet, watery stuffed mushroom, don’t worry – this recipe solves that problem!
  • So. Much. Flavor. There’s lemon zest, Old Bay, Worcestershire, Parmesan and more.
  • Great hot from the oven or at room temperature, so they’re perfect for entertaining.
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Healthier Buffalo Chicken Dip https://foxeslovelemons.com/lightened-up-buffalo-chicken-dip/ https://foxeslovelemons.com/lightened-up-buffalo-chicken-dip/#comments Thu, 17 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000 https://foxeslovelemons.com/2013/10/11/lightened-up-buffalo-chicken-dip/ This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip made with Greek yogurt is a party food favorite that nobody has ever realized is a lighter version unless I’ve told them. It has reduced fat and calories but NOT reduced flavor. Is Buffalo Chicken Dip Healthy? Not Really, But We Can Improve It. Buffalo chicken dip is one of […]

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This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip made with Greek yogurt is a party food favorite that nobody has ever realized is a lighter version unless I’ve told them. It has reduced fat and calories but NOT reduced flavor.

A bowl of healthy buffalo chicken dip on a platter with cut veggies, crackers and tortilla chips.

Is Buffalo Chicken Dip Healthy? Not Really, But We Can Improve It.

Buffalo chicken dip is one of everybody’s favorite appetizers, made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, buffalo sauce and blue cheese. It’s so delicious, but to be honest, it’s kind of a calorie and fat bomb. So, I set out to create a healthier buffalo chicken dip recipe that is just as good as the original.

And look, I know we’ve all been there. Somebody shows up at a party with a “lightened up” dish that they insist is every bit as good as the real thing (brownies made from beans, anyone?). And it never is.

But I’ve been making this healthy buffalo chicken dip with Greek yogurt for game day parties for YEARS, and I promise you: nobody has EVER realized it’s a lighter version unless I’ve mentioned it.

I think the key here is that buffalo sauce has such a strong, delicious flavor. It completely masks the fact that this dip is made with lower fat ingredients. Give it a try yourself and let me know what you think!

Why You Will Love This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip

  • Focusing on protein? This dip has 15g of protein per serving!
  • With just a few simple steps and a handful of ingredients, it’s really quick to put together.
  • Gives you all the flavor you love with better-for-you ingredients.
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