A 5-Minute Party Starter Even Speedier Than Artichoke Dip

What can you do with just five minutes? Actually, way more than you think! Introducing Food52 in 5: your cheat sheet for speedy, delicious recipes, fun mini projects, and more.

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When I’m on the hunt for a party snack, I look for a couple of things: Can I balance eating it with a drink in hand? Is it self-contained for minimal double-dipping? How quickly can I throw it together? Oh, and does it taste delicious?

Not every party snack hits the mark, and while classics like guacamole, deviled eggs, or cheese balls are, well, classics for a reason, I like to surprise my guests with new, unexpected recipes. Which is why I’m holding on to this unicorn, a bold-flavored artichoke tapenade from Jessica Oldfield’s Vegetarian Party Food.

The no-cook recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, marinated artichoke hearts, romesco sauce, citrus zest, and roughly chopped pistachios, and takes only five minutes. Simply pulse the artichokes and zest with olive oil to make a chunky puree, then spoon on a sliced baguette or crackers with a dollop of the romesco, a Spanish sauce made of peppers, tomatoes, roasted nuts, garlic, and olive oil. The result, a bright, bold bite that will have everyone talking.

For the sake of speediness, I’m a fan of buying my marinated artichoke hearts and romesco sauce, but Oldfield gives instructions on how to make your own if that’s more your flavor. And for those of you non-procrastinators, the tapenade can be made at least a day in advance.

What's your favorite last-minute party snack? Share recipes in the comments section below!