20+ Simple Italian Appetizers for a Party

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These simple Italian appetizers are perfect for your next party. Choose from a variety of recipes that will fit your special occasion. Whether it’s an outdoor picnic, or if you’re hosting a dinner party, I think you’ll find some wonderful inspiration.

Each of these recipes are ones that I make and love to share with others. Some are from my family, while others are ones that I created or modified from old Italian cookbooks.

simple italian party appetizers list

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About Italian Appetizers

Italian appetizers range from finger foods to small dishes. Sometimes just a bowl of olives in an olive oil marinade is enough to satisfy before serving an Italian meal, while other times you want an entire spread that is perfect for a crowd.


Antipasto and Party Platters

Antipasto literally means before the meal. In Italy, the first course after the antipasto is the pasta itself, followed by a main dish. Here are some ideas for your upcoming party.

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Antipasto Platter

Follow this recipe to make the exact same antipasto tray I make for many of our family get-togethers. They are always a hit!
Check out this recipe
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Easy Antipasto Skewers

Enjoy these festive and colorful antipasto skewers served at your next party or gathering. Guests will love them!
Check out this recipe
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Antipasto Salad Recipe

This is one of my favorite recipes and can be served in a large serving bowl. It's also flexible and easy to modify.
Check out this recipe
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Healthy Caprese Salad

No Italian-themed party would be complete without some traditional caprese salad. It is a perfect pre-dinner appetizer!
Check out this recipe
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Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Sometimes I swap the caprese for the more modern cherry or grape tomato caprese salad to serve for family and friends. It's easy and quick, and can be made in advance!
Check out this recipe
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Tomato Mozzarella Basil Skewers

Here's a fun way to serve your caprese salad. Put everything on skewers and let the guests top it with their own olive oil!
Check out this recipe
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Marinated Roasted Sweet Peppers

Here is an authentic Italian antipasto that deserves a place on your table. These marinated roasted peppers can easily be made a day or two ahead of time!
Check out this recipe

Easy Finger Foods

Here are some ideas for snacks that are basic and hassle-free for your gathering.

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Prosciutto Wrapped Dates

If you want sweet and savory together, this is it! The sweet dates with the salty prosciutto is a match made in heaven!
Check out this recipe
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Stuffed Mini Peppers With Ricotta

For a healthy Italian appetizer, you've got to try these stuffed mini peppers. Filled with a delicious creamy blend, your party-goers will thank you!
Check out this recipe
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how to make Italian grissini breadsticks

Crunchy Breadsticks (Grissini)

Enjoy this fabulous Grissini breadsticks recipe that we use at home. These Italian breadsticks are thin and crispy.
Check out this recipe
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Fried Zucchini

Fried zucchini is one of my favorite ways to use zucchini in Italian cooking. For a quick reheat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes and this finger food will crisp right up again!
Check out this recipe
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Italian Fried Artichoke Hearts (from a jar!)

For this recipe, I keep it easy by using jarred artichokes. The breading is a recipe I received from my Sicilian mother-in-law.
Check out this recipe
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Italian Fried Cauliflower

I first had this recipe for fried cauliflower from my husband's mother and I finally mastered it. This appetizer is a great way to use up your cauliflower.
Check out this recipe

Bruschetta and Bread Appetizers

In our Italian family, we all love Italian bread! Here are some suggestions for not just bread, but also recipes that use tomatoes.

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Bruschetta Pomodoro

Delicious Italian Bruschetta Pomodoro is one of my favorite Italian side dishes. You don't have to go to a restaurant to eat it. This recipe is so easy to make you'll be surprised!
Check out this recipe
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Zucchini Bruschetta Recipe

A great healthy alternative to typical Italian bruschetta.  Swap the bread for the zucchini slices and everything else stays the same!   Easy, quick and healthy!
Check out this recipe
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Garlic Bread Recipe

I help you make the best garlic bread… without having to make the bread itself. It's quick and easy and a huge time saver!
Check out this recipe
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Ciabatta Bread Pizza

I never thought of pizza as finger food for parties until I had this recipe from my Italian sister-in-law. It's tasty and delicious!
Check out this recipe
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Stuffed Artichoke Hearts

Open-faced artichoke hearts stuffed with Italian breadcrumbs and seasonings, cooked to perfection with a moist inside and crispy outside.
Check out this recipe

Eggplant Appetizers

Eggplant can be used in so many ways! Here are some creative eggplant recipes that your guests will love.

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Fried Eggplant and Mozzarella Stacks

This stacked eggplant recipe is fun to make and eat. Serve with a delicious marinara dipping sauce if you can!
Check out this recipe
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Italian Fried Eggplant

Instead of stacks, you can also serve fried Italian eggplant slices. This is a classic Italian recipe and enjoyed all over Italy.
Check out this recipe
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Eggplant Pizza

Simple and delicious eggplant pizza. Why not top your pizza with eggplant and veggies? Here's how!
Check out this recipe
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Baked Crispy Eggplant Sandwiches

This is a healthier version of the fried eggplant stacks, where this time we bake them instead! One of my faves!
Check out this recipe

Mushroom Appetizer Ideas

If you love mushrooms, I recommend trying these recipes below. These can also double as delicious Italian side dishes.

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Easy Italian Stuffed Mushrooms

Easy Italian recipe for making stuffed mushrooms that taste great and impress everyone!
Check out this recipe
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Italian Marinated Mushrooms

This recipe can be served warm or hot. I like it both ways. So don't worry about them going cold because they'll still taste amazing.
Check out this recipe
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Italian Breaded Mushrooms

These party bites are delicious! The meaty button mushrooms are a great choice for finger foods, especially for any vegetarian friends attending your party.
Check out this recipe
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Steamed Mushrooms in Parchment

Delicious steamed mushrooms with breadcrumbs and herbs cooked in parchment pouches. Use as antipasto, side dish or appetizer.
Check out this recipe

More Menu Recipe Ideas

Here are some more recipe ideas for when planning a party menu!

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I hope you’ve enjoyed these recipes and will use them at your next summer party!

Liz

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Liz
Liz

My name is Liz, a 2nd generation Italian-American. I love sharing easy Italian recipes through my blog and videos to anyone who enjoys Italian cooking. Learn more about me.

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