75 Refreshing Cold Appetizers and Dips for Your Summer Bash
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Summer is here, and that means it’s time for outdoor fun! Do you need a great cold appetizer idea for your next backyard barbecue, pool party, or afternoon picnic? If so, you have lucked out! I have prepared a selection of recipes for 75 refreshing cold appetizers and dips for your summer bash.
Enjoy treating your guests to fresh flavors, crisp textures, and dishes that keep everyone cool in the heat. In this ultimate round-up, we’ve gathered my 75 mouthwatering recipes that will make your summer parties unforgettable. So, let’s head to the kitchen and create your new favorite summer appetizers!
Planning Your Summer Party
Planning your summer party is a breeze with the right cold appetizer recipes at your fingertips. Create a great spread of easy appetizers with a mix of textures and flavors to satisfy everyone at the gathering, including:
- Creamy dips made with cream cheese and sour cream are always a hit, especially when served with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
- Savory dips and bite-sized treats are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
- Make-ahead appetizers, such as cold appetizer finger foods and hors d’oeuvres can save you time and stress on the event day.
- Dessert dips make the best sweet treats for summer birthday parties, baby showers, or cocktail parties.
14 Easy Cold Appetizers
Easy cold appetizers are a great idea for summer! These simple yet delicious bites are perfect for keeping your guests satisfied and cool. With options like easy bruschetta, veggie pizza, and burrata caprese, you’ll have a great spread that’s sure to impress at your next party. Combine your favorites to make a fantastic charcuterie board.
1. Italian Sub Pinwheels
All the flavors of an Italian sub in a rolled into a tasty tortilla. Perfect for your next appetizer night or potluck.
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Photo credit: homemadeonaweeknight.com
2. Bruschetta with Fresh Tomato
Roma tomatoes, red onion, basil, and garlic mingle together to make a fresh, delicious topping for bruschetta, the famous Italian grilled garlic toast appetizer.
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3. Melon & Prosciutto Skewers With Greens
Are you on the lookout for a fresh and zesty summer appetizer? These melon and prosciutto skewers will be just the thing you need!
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Photo credit: inthekitch.net
4. Taco Pinwheels
Mexican Pinwheels are an easy, make-ahead appetizer that’s loaded with flavor. They’re made with the ingredients of your favorite taco!
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Photo credit: pumpkinnspice.com
5. Prosciutto and Melon (Prosciutto e Melone)
Create a beautiful Summer appetizer with an international flair — and with only five ingredients — in just minutes!
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6. Tex Mex Cucumber Boats
Tex Mex cucumber boats have a deliciously easy Tex Mex quinoa salad filling. Fresh and flavorful, this is a great lunch or dinner.
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Photo credit: spabettie.com
7. Burrata Caprese
This is how to make Burrata Caprese appetizer, salad or pasta. A light and tasty Italian dish with tomatoes, cheese and balsamic dressing.
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Photo credit: temeculablogs.com
8. Hearts of Palm Ceviche
Hearts of Palm Ceviche is a vegan version of the classic Peruvian seafood dish made with lime juice, red onion, and chili peppers.
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Photo credit: veggiessavvetheday.com
9. Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs
Tender blackened shrimp seasoned with New Orleans Cajun spices are nestled atop creamy egg yolks blended with mayo, mustard, and a hint of hot sauce. Deviled eggs are always a party favorite and they disappear fast at any gathering.
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Photo credit: thefoodblog.com
10. Crescent Roll Veggie Pizza
Crescent roll veggie pizza is a party staple for good reason! Enjoy a buttery, flaky crust topped with Ranch spread, veggies, and cheddar cheese.
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11. Antipasto Skewers
Antipasto Skewers are an impressive, easy appetizer that comes together in 15 minutes! They can be customized with your favorite ingredients and they can be made entirely in advance!
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Photo credit: flavorthemoments.com
12. Tortellini Caprese Skewers
Tortellini Caprese Skewers are a fun spin on the classic caprese salad. They’re an easy appetizer ready in just 20 minutes, bursting with fresh flavors.
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Photo credit: freshapron.com
13. Easy Everything Bagel Cream Cheese Peppers
These easy everything bagel cream cheese peppers are the perfect appetizer for game day or any time.
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Photo credit: twokidsandacoupon.com
14. Kool Aid Pickles
Kool aid infused pickles are addictingly delicious. They will make your taste buds dance with a hint of sweet and sour in every bite!
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Photo credit: razzledazzlelife.com
26 Cold Dips
Easy cold appetizers are a must-have for your menu when hosting a summer bash, and this is quite the list! Make your favorite dip the day before, store it in the fridge, and be ready for the festivities! With savory options like easy onion dip, chicken dips, and other cheesy dips, you’ll have a great spread that’s sure to impress.
15. Caramelized Onion Dip
After following my Caramelized Onion Dip recipe from scratch, I guarantee you will never take the shortcut with a store-bought version again. It’s so fresh and utterly delicious!
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16. Smoked Salmon Dip with Cream Cheese
This easy smoked salmon dip is made with hot-smoked salmon and cream cheese. It’s the perfect quick appetizer for any occasion.
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Photo credit: mittengirl.com
17. White Bean Dip
White bean dip made in just 5 minutes with a can of white beans, olive oil, lemon juice and some seasoning. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
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Photo credit: beyondthechickencoop.com
18. Yummy Cold Buffalo Chicken Dip with Rotisserie Chicken
THE BEST buffalo chicken dip (cold) with rotisserie chicken! 8 ingredients and about 15 minutes is all you need for this gluten free dip.
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Photo credit: mytherapistcooks.com
19. Neiman Marcus Dip
Neiman Marcus Dip is the ultimate bacon and cheese dip! Also known as Million Dollar Dip, this cold party dip is made with 5 ingredients.
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Photo credit: /justdiprecipes.com
20. Dill Pickle Cottage Cheese Dip
This high-protein Cottage Cheese Dip is a quick 10-minute recipe, ideal for daily snacking or as an appetizer for party platters.
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Photo credit: lifearoundthetable.ca
21. Corn Dip with Rotel
Corn dip with Rotel is an easy cold dip made with corn, Rotel tomatoes, sour cream, mayo, cheese, and green onions. It’s perfect for parties!
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Photo credit: justdiprecipes.com
22. Easy Whipped Feta Dip with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes & Garlic
This creamy whipped feta dip with blistered roasted tomatoes & garlic is amazing. Just one bite and you won’t be able to put it down.
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Photo credit: scratchmarket.co
23. Vegetable Dip
This classic Vegetable Dip recipe is creamy, perfectly seasoned with dried parsley and chives, and topped with hot pepper sauce.
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24. Easy Smoked Trout Dip with Lemon and Dill
Combining the delicate flavor of smoked trout with a creamy and tangy base and amazing flavors from the fresh herbs, this dip is a true delight.
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Photo credit: peaktoplate.com
25. Salsa Dip Recipe
Our easy Salsa Dip Recipe, made with basic ingredients and ready in just minutes,will be the hit of your Cinco de Mayo fiesta.rnrn
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Photo credit: swirlsofflavor.com
26. Buffalo Chickpea Dip
Why choose between spicy Buffalo wings and smooth hummus when you can have the best of both worlds? Perfect for game day or any appetizer spread!
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Photo credit: bigflavorstinykitchen.com
27. Easy Cheesy Chicken Dip
Easy Cheesy Chicken Dip is just the ticket for game days and party days when you need a super quick, boldly flavorful appetizer. This cheesy chicken dip needs only 5 ingredients and 5 minutes. No baking needed.
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Photo credit: chewoutloud.com
28. Easy Fried Pickle Dip
Whether you’re a fan of pickles or not, you won’t be able to resist trying this tasty Fried Pickle Dip Recipe. Perfect for any occasion!
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Photo credit: thecookinchicks.com
29. Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Dip
Easy to make in a food processor in 15 minutes, this creamy vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Dip uses white beans in place of cream cheese and sour cream. Enjoy it with raw vegetables, crackers, or crusty bread.
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Photo credit: veggiessavetheday.com
30. Cilantro Lime Dip
This Cilantro Lime Dip is delicious served with tortilla chips and margaritas, or used as a topping on fish, chicken, or burgers. #cilantrolimedip #cilantrodip #cilantrolime #cilantrolimesauce
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Photo credit: dizzybusyandhungry.com
31. Baba Ganoush Recipe
The best Baba Ganoush! Delicious and flavorful Middle Eastern Eggplant Dip made with roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Completely gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb, learn how to make this easy Baba Ganoush Recipe and enjoy with crunchy vegetables, warm pita bread, or your favorite crackers.
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Photo credit: theforkedspoon.com
32. Layered Taco Dip
Layered taco dip is easy to make and bursting with all of your favorite fiesta flavors. Serve with plenty of tortilla chips or veggie slices!
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33. Lipton Spinach Dip
This Lipton spinach dip is a classic recipe! This dip recipe is delicious and goes great with chips, veggies, or crackers.
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Photo credit: twopinkpeonies.com
34. Best Cowboy Crack Dip Recipe (Hot or Cold)
Mixed in minutes this Cowboy Crack Dip is cheesy, creamy, and easy—the perfect appetizer. This crack dip recipe is a classic appetizer ideal for your next party, game day, and holiday get-together.
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Photo credit: thefreshcooky.com
35. Skinny BLT Ranch Dip
Loaded with the classic toppings of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, this Skinny BLT Ranch Dip is made with Greek yogurt and swirled with hints of ranch dressing!
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Photo credit: pumpkinnspice.com
36. Spanakopita Dip Recipe
If you love the flavors of spanakopita, but don’t want to deal with phyllo dough, our Spanakopita Dip recipe is perfect.
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Photo credit: drugstoredivas.net
37. Delicious Smoked Salmon Dip Recipe
Smoked Salmon Dip is a delicious, creamy blend of smoked salmon, cheese, and herbs that will make this recipe a party favorite.
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: razzledazzlelife.com
38. Chipotle black bean dip (Trader Joe’s copycat)
Chipotle black bean dip is a tasty appetizer that’s perfect for parties and games nights. Scoop up this protein-packed spread with tortilla chips or crunchy veggies.
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Photo credit: cadryskitchen.com
39. Easy Cottage Cheese Dip with Ranch Seasoning
This whipped cottage cheese dip with ranch seasoning turns a container of cottage cheese and simple spices into a delicious, healthy snack!
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Photo credit: maryswholelife.com
40. Layered Pesto Appetizer Dip
This yummy Layered Pesto Appetizer Dip is so easy to make – in under 10 minutes! With simple ingredients you can easily keep on hand, it’ll be your go-to anytime you need an impressive appetizer FAST!
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: twohealthykitchens.com
Salsa and Guacamole Recipes
We can’t leave out classic appetizer dips like salsa made with cherry tomatoes and guacamole made with ripe avocado and zesty lime juice. With fresh produce abundant during the summer months, you’ll love making these salsa recipes from scratch!
41. Avocado Salsa
Try fresh Avocado Salsa as a topping for Chicken Enchiladas or serve as a dip with tortilla chips. Muy delicioso!
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42. Pineapple Pico de Gallo
For a zingy appetizer with fresh summery flavor, make this yummy Pineapple Pice De gallo! This dish is sweet and tart with a dash of spicy for a burst of tasty flavor.
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Photo credit: dizzybusyandhungry.com
43. Fresh Peach Jalapeno Salsa
7 ingredients, 15 minutes, fresh salsa! This version of peach salsa uses fresh OR canned peaches and includes instructions for mild/spicy.
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Photo credit: mytherapistcooks.com
44. Corn Salsa
Corn Salsa Recipe is a delightfully light and fresh summer side dish – and it is so easy!
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45. Easy Strawberry Mango Salsa Recipe
This Strawberry Mango Salsa is bursting with color, flavor and nutrients. Serve it up with tortilla chips, grilled chicken or fish!
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Photo credit: hauteandhealthyliving.com
46. Jicama Mango Salsa
Jicama mango salsa: A fiesta of flavors where crunchy jicama and sweet mango are accompanied by a lively mix of lime, jalapeño, and a hint of cilantro.
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Photo credit: peaktoplate.com
47. Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa. Green salsa with a rich, earthy flavor from roasted or grilled tomatillos, onions, garlic, and jalapeno pepper.
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48. Black Bean and Corn Salsa (with Grilled Corn)
The best and easiest Black Bean and Corn Salsa recipe! Transform canned beans with grilled corn, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and zesty lime!
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Photo credit: strengthandsunshine.com
49. Mango Pico de Gallo
Mango Pico de Gallo featuring tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and fresh lime juice marries traditional salsa with delicious fruity flavor.
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50. Ten-Minute Cherry Tomato Salsa
Serve my garden fresh cherry tomato salsa as a zesty dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
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51. The Best Guacamole Recipe
I absolutely love everything about Mexican Cuisine. And the Best Guacamole recipe is a habit I cannot seem to kick– So why try?
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Photo credit: soulfullymade.com
10 Homemade Hummus Recipes
Homemade hummus recipes are a fantastic addition to your summer party spread. A little healthier, these easy dips are perfect for pairing with fresh veggies, pita bread, and pita chips — and they fit perfectly into your list of party appetizers.
52. White Bean Hummus
This white bean hummus comes out just as creamy and flavorful as the ones made with chickpeas. Serve with homemade pita chips and your choice of seasonings!
Check Out the Recipe
53. Easy & Creamy Beetroot Hummus with Tahini (Dairy Free)
This vibrant and delicious beetroot hummus dip is made with tahini, so it’s super creamy but also dairy free & vegan! It’s easy to make, too.
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: fannetasticfood.com
54. Hummus Recipe
The very BEST Hummus Recipe is creamy, smooth, flavorful, and a million times better than even your very favorite store-bought version. Made using a handful of simple pantry ingredients, including chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon, and cumin, learn how to make hummus and enjoy it with all your favorite Mediterranean dishes and as a healthy snack.
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: theforkedspoon.com
55. Black-Eyed Peas Hummus Recipe (Creamy & Naturally Gluten-Free)
What’s one of the healthiest snacks on the planet? Black-Eyed Peas hummus! Ready to take your tastebuds to a whole new level? Give this delicious recipe a try and thank us later!
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Photo credit: ourplantbasedworld.com
56. Avocado White Bean Hummus with Lemon (Healthy Dip Recipe)
This avocado white bean hummus is the love child of guacamole and hummus. It makes a great healthy appetizer, snack, or sandwich spread!
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Photo credit: fannetasticfood.com
57. Loaded Greek Hummus Dip
Greek hummus dip combines a creamy spread with crunchy Greek salsa and plenty of salty toppings. Serve it with toasty baked pita chips!
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58. Spicy Mexican Avocado Hummus
Mexican-Inspired Hummus with Avocado combines creamy avocado and chick peas (don’t forget the tahini) with a jalapeño, fresh cilantro, olive oil, and a combination of citrus juices. Mexican meets Middle East!
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Photo credit: beyondmeresustenance.com
59. Broccoli hummus
How to make delicious fresh broccoli hummus in 15 minutes. A healthy vegan, dairy free dip recipe – great party food and for picnics
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Photo credit: madaboutmacarons.com
60. Irresistible Dill Pickle Hummus
Are you a pickle fan? You’re going to go wild for dill pickle hummus. It’s packed with pickle flavor, thanks to brine, fresh dill, and of course, crispy pickles.
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Photo credit: cadryskitchen.com
61. Creamy Hummus with Smoky, Spicy Walnut Topping
This recipe for flavorful and creamy hummus can be made in an instant pot or on stovetop. Smoky and spicy walnuts make a perfect topping to the hummus.
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Photo credit: nourishandnestle.com
6 Cold Spreads
These easy cold spreads offer a delightful variety of flavors and textures, perfect for spreading on toasted crostini or buttery crackers and with fresh veggies. For a unique twist, try serving a tuna pâté with vegetables and pesto on crostinis. Again, make-ahead appetizers like these allow you to prepare and refrigerate, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable gathering.
62. Pesto With Walnuts
An abundance of fresh basil leaves calls for classic—and versatile—Basil Pesto Spread! Serve it as an appetizer on toasted crostini or as the main meal tossed with angel hair pasta.
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63. Salmon Rillettes (French spread recipe)
I love serving this easy salmon rillettes recipe as a classic starter or a tasty snack at home. This recipe is incredibly delicious.
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Photo credit: lacuisinedegeraldine.fr
64. Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tapenade
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tapenade, or roasted red pepper dip, is a tasty 10-minute appetizer bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
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65. Healthy tuna pâté recipe
This is a delicious, balanced tuna pâté recipe with a creamy texture. Low-calorie alternative to butter-filled pâtés.
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Photo credit: thecinnamonjar.com
66. Homemade Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
My savory peppery Homemade Pimento Cheese is prepared with fresh ingredients — like hand-grated cheddar cheese, mild pimento peppers, white onions, silky cream cheese, and mayonnaise — combined into a cheesy, fluffy, spreadable texture.
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67. Garlic and Herb Cheese Spread
This creamy cheese spread or dip is loaded with fresh herbs, garlic and parmesan cheese. #GarlicHerbCheeseSpread #HomemadeCheeseSpread #HomemadeBoursin
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Photo credit: marcellinaincucina.com
8 Dessert Dips
Add a sweet twist to your summer events with these 8 dessert dips. Cold dessert appetizer recipes offer a unique and delicious way to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Serve them with bite-sized treats like cookies, graham crackers, or fresh fruits for a fun and unexpected combination.
68. No-Bake Brownie Batter Dessert Dip
Easy No-Bake Brownie Batter Dessert Dip is so simple, using boxed brownie mix and a handful of other ingredients, like silky cream cheese and whipped cream for a creamy, fluffy texture!
Check Out the Recipe
69. Marshmallow Fluff Fruit Dip
Make this easy 3-ingredient fruit dip recipe made with cream cheese, marshmallow cream and vanilla extract. Add flavorful mix-ins and serve with your favorite fruit, cookies, graham crackers, and more!
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: thefreshcooky.com
70. Oreo Fluff
Oreo fluff is an easy dessert salad that’s made with cream cheese, Oreo cookies, and whipped topping. This easy recipe is made with just 5 ingredients and takes just 10 minutes to make!
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: ihearteating.com
71. Cherry Cheesecake Dip
Cherry cheesecake dip is an easy way no bake dessert made sweetened cream cheese and delicious cherry pie filling. It’s the perfect make ahead dessert for potluck, summer parties, and holiday gatherings.
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: homemadeinterest.com
72. Healthy Vanilla Yogurt Fruit Dip
A delicious, healthy and incredibly easy Yogurt Fruit Dip! It’s made with just 4 simple ingredients you probably have on hand. A total hit at parties, yet easy enough for everyday snacks … with just 3 minutes total prep time!
Check Out the Recipe
Photo credit: twohealthykitchens.com
73. Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Tortilla Chips
A bright and colorful appetizer that’s easy to make! My fruit salsa recipe combines juicy strawberries, mango, and kiwi with a tart Granny Smith apple. Serve with crispy homemade cinnamon chips!
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74. Easy Cannoli Dip Recipe
Cannoli Dip is easy to make tastes just like the creamy filling of a traditional cannoli with mini chocolate chips mixed in. Just add dippers.
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Photo credit: soulfullymade.com
75. Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie Dip
This Pineapple Cream Cheese Pie Dip is the perfect appetizer or dessert for cookouts and holiday get togethers! Just 5 ingredients!
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Photo credit: missinthekitchen.com
Tips for Serving Cold Appetizers and Dips
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About Sheila Thigpen
Recipe Developer, Food Photographer, Food Writer
Sheila Thigpen is the publisher of Life, Love, and Good Food — a Southern food blog — and the author of Easy Chicken Cookbook and The 5-Ingredient Fresh and Easy Cookbook. After 20+ years in the publishing industry, she retired in 2018 to focus on her own creative endeavors full time. She and her husband live near the beautiful Smoky Mountains and have a precious little granddaughter who has stolen their hearts. As an influencer, Sheila has collaborated with brands like Creamette, Kroger, HERSHEY’S, Hamilton Beach, Garafalo Pasta, OXO, Smithfield, Valley Fig Growers, and more.
