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17 Appetizers So Good, You Might Forget There’s a Main Course

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Appetizers have a way of setting the stage for any meal, but what if they stole the show? This slideshow showcases 17 starters so delightful, the main course might just become an afterthought. From crispy chicken karaage to savory smoked salmon dip, each recipe packs a punch of flavor that’s hard to top. Whether you’re hosting a party or just spicing up dinner, these appetizers are guaranteed to leave your guests impressed. Get ready to discover dishes that might just become your new favorites.

Char Siu Bao

Low angle shot of two mantou buns filled with char siu filling.

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Char Siu Bao. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Char Siu Bao features sweet, barbecue-flavored pork tucked inside fluffy buns. This appetizer often steals the show with its rich flavors.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao

Samosas

Low angle shot of a samosa cut in half so that you can see the potato filling inside.
Samosas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crispy on the outside, stuffed with savory fillings, Samosas are a hit for any starter menu. These triangles are packed with flavor that pops in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Chicken Karaage

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Karaage offers bite-sized pieces of crispy, juicy chicken that’s marinated and fried to perfection, making it a must-have at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Smoked Salmon Dip

Smoked salmon dip in a bowl with crackers and veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Dip. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Smoked Salmon Dip combines rich, smoky fish with creamy ingredients, creating a spread that’s both sophisticated and irresistibly good.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings bring a simple yet bold taste that keeps everyone reaching for more. They’re a crunchy and delightful way to start a meal.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Low angle, closeup shot of spare ribs with hoisin glaze.
Instant Pot Spare Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Spare Ribs melt in your mouth with flavors that make you question if you even need a main course. They’re that good and that easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Thai Curry Puffs

Thai curry puffs filled with ground chicken, potatoes, peas, onions, garlic and spices are a mouthwatering snack.
Thai Curry Puffs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Thai Curry Puffs are little pockets of spicy, sweet, and savory, all wrapped in a pastry that’s perfectly golden. They’re a small bite with big taste.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curry Puffs

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Pakora is marinated chicken fried in a chickpea batter, delivering a crispy, flavorful appetizer that’s hard to pass up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

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Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are crisp on the outside with a spicy chicken filling, offering a crunch that’s perfectly paired with your favorite dip.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

Instant Pot Hummus

Hummus in a black bowl garnished with whole chickpeas, olive oil, and paprika.
Instant Pot Hummus. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Hummus is creamy, smooth, and ready to serve with your choice of crunchy veggies or warm pita, making a simple starter that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Hummus

Arepas con Queso

Close up shot of an arepa con queso split open to show the cheesy filling.
Arepas con Queso. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Arepas con Queso are warm, cheese-filled corn cakes that bring a touch of South American flair to your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Arepas con Queso

Har Gow

4 har gow shrimp dumplings in a bamboo steamer basket.
Har Gow. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Har Gow, with its delicate shrimp filling encased in a translucent wrapper, is a staple that often outshines the main dish at any feast.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow

Guacamole

Guacamole in a white bowl with limes, cilantro, and tortilla chips on the side.
Guacamole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Guacamole is a fresh mix of avocado, onion, and spices that’s always a crowd favorite, perfect for dipping or just spooning up on its own.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Mochiko Chicken, with its unique, sweet rice flour coating, offers a crispy texture and sweet-savory flavor that makes it unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Fried chicken in a basket lined with parchment paper.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken lets you enjoy the crispy, juicy flavors of fried chicken without the oil, serving up a guilt-free way to indulge.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon wrapped jalapenos on a white plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers are stuffed with cheese and wrapped in a crispy coating, delivering a spicy kick that’s both addictive and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites

Bowl of jalapeno popper bites.
Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites shrink down the classic popper into bite-sized pieces, perfect for popping straight into your mouth for a burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeno Popper Bites

By on September 25th, 2024
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About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind Eggs All Ways. She's a writer, recipe developer, photographer, and cookbook author with more than 40 books to her name, including the bestselling Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications, both print and digital, including MSN, Cooking Light, Fitness, Buzzfeed, and Eating Well.

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