Make as many of your starters ahead of time that you can. This will make the day of your party much less hectic and stressful. Clear out enough storage space in your refrigerator and freezer, as you need to keep your hors d’oeuvres ready. Those that need to be served hot can just be reheated right before the party.
When you choose your hors d’oeuvres, consider how they contrast in texture, temperature, and flavor. Your guests will most likely become restless if all your appetizers are similar. Offer some vegetarian options as well as some with meats and cheeses. For texture, consider offering some dishes that are creamy and others that are crunchy.
Take into account how large your party will be. For ten guests or less, prepare at least three or four different kinds of hors d’oeuvres. If your party will be larger and ranging up to 45 guests, think of at least six or seven kinds. For even larger parties, plan on eight or more dishes to keep your guests happy. It is much better to have too much food than to run out in the middle of the party.
If you are hosting a cocktail party, plan on at least twelve hors d’oeuvres per guests. If you make hot appetizers, they will get eaten faster, so plan accordingly. Hot starters will fill up your guests better than cold ones will. Providing both kinds will keep food on the table and your guests can choose what they want.
It is simple to find many appetizer recipes online. You can easily fill out your menu in a few moments of browsing the many recipe sites that exist. Do all of your shopping at least two days before the party.
Do not be afraid to use your imagination. You do not have to stick to conventional offerings like nachos and dip. Go ahead and spice things up a little with something exotic. Bacon wrapped seafood is simple to make and will be a hit with your guests. Make one or two dishes like this that will really wow your guests and keep them coming back to the table.
