March Madness is the perfect excuse to gather friends and indulge in some game-time snacking. The key to a great watch party is a lineup of appetizers that are easy to eat and full of flavor. We’ve rounded up 17 simple yet delicious appetizers that will keep your guests satisfied from tip-off to the final buzzer.
Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe Vegan
Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe Vegan is a savory pastry that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the flakiness of puff pastry. Ready in about an hour, these bourekas use simple ingredients like mushrooms, onions, and vegan puff pastry. They have a satisfyingly crispy texture and are perfect for sharing during game time. Serve them warm for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both delicious and vegan-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe Vegan
Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant Tomato Stacks offer a fresh and colorful option for your March Madness gathering. With a prep time of 30 minutes, these stacks are made with roasted eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. The flavors are rich and complementary, creating a visually appealing and tasty bite-sized treat. They’re an elegant yet simple addition to your appetizer lineup.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Crispy Plantain Chips
Crispy Plantain Chips are a crunchy and slightly sweet alternative to traditional potato chips. In just 20 minutes, you can air-fry plantains with a touch of oil for a healthier snack. These chips are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. Their unique flavor and crisp texture will stand out among your game day snacks.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Plantain Chips
Colombian Baked Plantains Recipe with Guava and Cheese
Colombian Baked Plantains Recipe with Guava and Cheese is a sweet and savory combination that’s sure to be a hit. It takes about 30 minutes to bake ripe plantains with guava paste and mozzarella cheese, resulting in a gooey, caramelized treat. The contrast of flavors is delightful, offering a tropical twist to your appetizer spread. This dish is a comforting, indulgent option for any party.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Baked Plantains Recipe with Guava and Cheese
Spring Hummus with Crispy Chickpeas, Goat Cheese with Herbs, and Wine-Soaked Strawberries
Spring Hummus with Crispy Chickpeas, Goat Cheese with Herbs, and Wine-Soaked Strawberries is a multi-layered dip that’s ready in about 45 minutes. It combines creamy hummus with the tang of goat cheese and the sweetness of strawberries. Topped with crispy chickpeas for added texture, this appetizer is a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s a sophisticated choice that pairs beautifully with a glass of wine.
Get the Recipe: Spring Hummus with Crispy Chickpeas, Goat Cheese with Herbs, and Wine-Soaked Strawberries
Endive Spears with Celery Root Remoulade, Cranberries, and Pepitas (Paleo)
Endive Spears with Celery Root Remoulade, Cranberries, and Pepitas are a light and refreshing choice, ready in 20 minutes. This Paleo-friendly dish features crisp endive leaves filled with a tangy celery root remoulade, tart cranberries, and crunchy pepitas. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a delightful bite. It’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Endive Spears with Celery Root Remoulade, Cranberries, and Pepitas (Paleo)
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini is a creamy eggplant dip with a deep, smoky flavor. In just 45 minutes, you can roast eggplants and blend them with garlic, lemon juice, and spices. This version is tahini-free, making it lighter yet still rich in taste. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a robust, smoky dip.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe is a classic Middle Eastern dip that takes about 1 hour to prepare. It’s made with roasted eggplants, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, creating a creamy and smoky spread. This dip is perfect for scooping up with warm pita or fresh vegetables. Its authentic flavor will transport your guests to the heart of Lebanon.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
Homemade Labaneh Cheese Balls
Homemade Labaneh Cheese Balls are a tangy and versatile treat that can be ready in about 24 hours. This Middle Eastern cheese is made by straining yogurt until thick and rolling it into bite-sized balls. You can coat them in herbs or spices to suit your taste. Serve these cheese balls with crackers or bread for a unique and flavorful appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Labaneh Cheese Balls
Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Jalapeno
Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Jalapeno brings a kick to your appetizer table. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dip combines black-eyed peas with tahini, tomatoes, and spicy jalapenos. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish with a spicy punch that’s perfect for dipping. Guests will love the bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Black-Eyed Pea Dip with Tomatoes, Garlic, and Jalapeno
Holiday Charcuterie Board
Holiday Charcuterie Board is an impressive and customizable option that can be assembled in about 30 minutes. Select an array of cured meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit to create a board that caters to all tastes. The variety of textures and flavors will be a hit with your guests. It’s a visually stunning and delicious way to start the party.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Charcuterie Board
Irresistibly Smooth Garlic Hummus
Irresistibly Smooth Garlic Hummus is a creamy and flavorful dip that’s ready in just 10 minutes. Made with chickpeas, tahini, and a generous amount of garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser with a velvety texture. This hummus is perfect for dipping vegetables or spreading on warm pita. Its rich garlic flavor will have guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Irresistibly Smooth Garlic Hummus
Sweet Potato Hummus
Sweet Potato Hummus is a colorful and nutrient-rich dip, ready in about 45 minutes. This twist on traditional hummus includes roasted sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness and vibrant color. Paired with tahini, garlic, and spices, it’s a flavorful dip that’s perfect for health-conscious guests. Its creamy texture and sweet-savory balance make it a standout snack.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus
Air Fryer Fried Cheese Curds
These perfectly fried cheese curds are coated in crispy batter and fried in the air fryer for a gooey and melty snack! It’s hard to imagine a more addictive, more-ish appetizer for your game viewing party.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Cheese Curds
Asparagus and Ricotta Tart
Asparagus and Ricotta Tart is a savory and elegant dish that takes about 1 hour to prepare. It features a flaky pastry crust topped with creamy ricotta and fresh asparagus. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a sophisticated addition to your appetizer offerings. This tart is a beautiful and delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and Ricotta Tart
The Ultimate Middle Eastern Appetizer Platter
The Ultimate Middle Eastern Appetizer Platter is a feast for the eyes and the palate, ready in about 30 minutes. It includes an assortment of dips, fresh vegetables, olives, and warm bread. Each component offers a different taste and texture, allowing guests to mix and match. This platter is a great way to introduce a variety of Middle Eastern flavors to your party.
Get the Recipe: The Ultimate Middle Eastern Appetizer Platter
Festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Punchy Garlic And Herb Chermoula
Festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta with Punchy Garlic and Herb Chermoula is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer, ready in about 20 minutes. The tangy goat cheese and tart cranberries are balanced by the bold garlic and herb chermoula. Served on toasted slices of baguette, this bruschetta is both festive and delicious. It’s a quick and easy option that’s sure to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Festive Cranberry Goat Cheese Bruschetta With Punchy Garlic And Herb Chermoula