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11 Easy Appetizers You Can Make That Are Ever Better Than The Main Course

We live in the age of apps, my friends. They are right at our fingertips, totally interactive and endlessly entertaining. With hundreds to choose from, it can be hard to pick a favorite. I'm talking about appetizers of course, but I can see where you got confused.

The ideal party is made up of good friends, great drinks, and awesome food. (I would add “good conversation,” but let’s be honest — all I really care about is the food.) Appetizers are the best part of any meal, and anyone who says otherwise is a monster. Unfortunately, these bite-sized bits are not enjoyed nearly enough, and all too often they end up playing second fiddle to the spotlight-stealing main course.

I can't think of the last time I cooked an appetizer for a dinner party. Possibly because I've never had a dinner party, but still the thought of making small, tasty plates hasn't crossed my mind. In an effort to correct this obvious problem, I suggest we start serving appetizers and small plates every day of the week. No longer reserved for Super Bowl parties, trips to Applebee’s, or tapas restaurants, appetizers can now be enjoyed by all in the comfort of our own homes. Since we can't download these surprisingly delicious treats from the app store (crazy right?!), here are 11 recipes to get you started.

Image: A Beautiful Mess

by Corinne Caputo

5 Minute Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits

Cooking for Keeps created this amazing 5 minute jalapeno cheddar biscuit recipe, which I would argue is perfect for breakfast or dinner.

Image: Cooking for Keeps

Asparagus in a Phyllo Blanket with Brie and Thyme

Turn the classic pigs in a blanket appetizer vegetarian with this tasty recipe from Big Girls Small Kitchen.

Image: Big Girls Small Kitchen

Toasted Coconut Onion Rings

This recipe from A Beautiful Mess is pretty much perfect. I mean, just look at them. How can you say no?

Image: A Beautiful Mess

Grilled Jalapeno Poppers

Keep that spicy flavor coming with this grilled jalapeno popper recipe from Adventures in Cooking.

Image: Adventures in Cooking

Brie and Red Pepper Crostini

If you are in the market for a more classic appetizer, look no further than this brie and red pepper crostini from Big Girls Small Kitchen.

Image: Big Girls Small Kitchen

Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

Never microwave frozen pizza rolls again. This recipe from Joy The Baker is here to save you.

Image: Joy The Baker

Avocado Fries with Cilantro Dipping Sauce

Just when I thought French fries couldn’t get any more delicious, Adventures in Cooking introduces these unbelievable avocado fries.

Image: Adventures in Cooking

Filled and Grilled Avocados

Let’s not stop there with the avocado. The Kitchen Alchemist has the perfect filled and grilled recipe.

Image: The Kitchen Alchemist

Fried pickles and Spicy Dill Mayo

Fried pickles are proof that if there is a god, s/he love us. Take this recipe from A Beautiful Mess for example. Just delicious.

Image: A Beautiful Mess

Chickpea Salad with Lemon Mint Vinaigrette

This super simple salad from Savory Sweet Life is tasty and quick to make — the perfect recipe to whip up for any last minute guests.

Image: Savory Sweet Life

Asian Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Try this surprising new twist on lettuce wraps from A Pretty Life In The Suburbs.

Image: A Pretty Life In The Suburbs

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