favorite appetzier

My go-to appetizer is simple, light, and elegant. Slice English cucumber into 1/4 inch rounds, top with a sliver of smoked salmon, a dollop of creme fraiche, and a sprig of dill or chives. I like this because it takes less than 10 minutes to prepare, looks lovely on a nice platter, and ruins no appetites.

I love this easy peasy...mini philo cups, fig jam and Gorgonzola on top ...heat through till cheese melts ..oh wow!

Thanks to all for the great ideas!

A small wheel of baked brie with water crackers. I wrap it in puffed pastry, decorate the top with cutouts, brush with egg wash and bake until golden. Garnish with grapes both red and green seedless. BB

I like these Little Mushroom Pinwheels: https://food52.com/recipes/14656-little-mushroom-pinwheels
You can make them in advance and freeze the rolled up log well in advance, take out to defrost, and slice and bake on the spot. Very convenient and I try to keep a supply of the logs in my freezer for emergency requests for pot luck apps.

A nice charcuterie, what ever is left over you can wrap up. If you're not serving dinner this is even better. Get some wine and you're set.

Roasted Fennel And White Bean Dip https://food52.com/recipes/8908-roasted-fennel-white-bean-dip Always a big hit! Yogurt and Spinach Dip which was included in the first Food52 Cookbook. https://food52.com/recipes/3541-yoghurt-spinach-dip-borani-esfanaaj-in-the-persian-manner When Merrill and Amanda were in Seattle for the book launching we had a potluck for them and I made this and it was a hit.

This mini meatball appetizer recipe is my favorite on the site: https://food52.com/recipes/21537-spicy-korean-style-gochujang-meatballs

Also, mini potato pancakes with a side of sour cream with a dollop of apple sauce/jam mixed in.

Both are make-ahead, too. Small cheese plate with crackers, grapes/pear etc. and salami -easy & tasty.

For 4 people, keep it simple. A small bowl of spiced nuts, some crostini topped with pimiento cheese, or mini meatballs or lil smokies with some bbq sauce or honey mustard.

Just some suggestions. Don't make too much of it since you've got dinner ahead of you.

Bruschetta with chicken liver pate is one of my favorites.