Who needs dinner when the pre-show is this good? These snacks step into the spotlight and command attention, proving that they’re far from just fillers before the main event. You might think you’re saving space for the next course, but by the time these showstoppers hit the table, that plan will be nothing more than a distant memory.
Air Fryer BBQ Wings
As soon as these hit the table, the crunch and smoky aroma of Air Fryer BBQ Wings immediately grab everyone’s attention. They’ve got that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat that makes them impossible to ignore. The bold, saucy flavor is enough to make people forget there’s even a main course coming. You might want to keep an extra batch ready because these have a way of disappearing before anyone realizes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Wings
Arepas Con Queso
Golden, warm, and stuffed with gooey, cheesy perfection, Arepas Con Queso bring a comforting vibe to any gathering. They’re the kind of snack that makes everyone pause and look twice, especially when that cheesy filling stretches just right. Each bite feels like a fulfilling treat that keeps people talking and reaching for more. Serve these up, and watch them quietly steal the spotlight before the main event even starts.
Get the Recipe: Arepas Con Queso
Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Crispy, golden shells with a flavor-packed center make Air Fryer Spring Rolls a clear pre-dinner favorite. They’ve got that rewarding crunch that echoes across the room, instantly making them the center of attention. Whether paired with dips or enjoyed solo, these rolls make waiting for dinner feel like a win. Just be prepared to explain why there’s none left by the time you sit down.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Chicken Pakora
Light, crispy, and spiced just enough to keep things exciting, Chicken Pakora knows how to keep the snack table lively. They’ve got that perfect mix of texture and flavor that has everyone reaching for just one more. Whether you’re serving them up for a crowd or just a small group, they bring an energy that’s hard to match. Don’t be surprised if people start asking for the recipe before dinner even hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora
Smoked Salmon Dip
Smooth, rich, and packed with savory goodness, Smoked Salmon Dip is the kind of snack that turns crackers into a full-blown appetizer moment. It’s creamy enough to feel indulgent but balanced enough to keep everyone coming back without hesitation. Whether it’s scooped up with bread, veggies, or even a spoon, this dip doesn’t last long. Make sure you’ve made enough because it tends to vanish in record time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip
Thai Chicken Satay
Perfectly grilled and loaded with flavor, Thai Chicken Satay brings a touch of smokiness and spice to the snack game. It’s the kind of handheld treat that works just as well for mingling as it does for keeping everyone occupied before dinner. Each skewer is packed with just enough flavor to stand out but not overpower the rest of the lineup. You’ll want to keep extras close because these always go faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay
Instant Pot Spare Ribs
Juicy, tender, and coated in a sticky glaze, Instant Pot Spare Ribs have a way of making everyone forget about napkins. The fall-off-the-bone texture keeps people coming back, while the flavor lingers just enough to make them crave another bite. These ribs are more than just a snack—they’re a statement that dinner might not even need to happen. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs
Chicken 65
Bold, crispy, and with just the right amount of heat, Chicken 65 manages to steal the spotlight without even trying. These bite-sized pieces bring enough flavor to the table to keep conversations lively and appetites whetted. They’re the perfect mix of texture and taste, making it nearly impossible to stop at just one. Keep a watchful eye on these because they tend to disappear faster than anything else.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65
Char Siu Bao
Soft, pillowy buns filled with a sweet and savory surprise, Char Siu Bao bring a quiet confidence to the snack lineup. Each bite offers a comforting mix of tender bread and rich filling that leaves everyone smiling. They’re the kind of snack that feels like a meal on its own, but light enough to keep people excited for what’s next. Just be ready for guests asking when they can have these again.
Get the Recipe: Char Siu Bao
Whipped Feta Spread
Creamy, fluffy, and packed with a tangy punch, Whipped Feta Spread is a snack that feels fancy without trying too hard. It pairs perfectly with crackers, veggies, or just about anything you can scoop it up with. The balance of richness and lightness makes it a crowd favorite that never overstays its welcome. Once it’s on the table, you’ll see why people keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta Spread
Thai Fish Cakes
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Thai Fish Cakes bring a burst of flavor that keeps everyone on their toes. They’ve got that rewarding texture that makes each bite feel like a mini celebration. Whether you serve them with a sauce or enjoy them plain, these cakes have a way of sticking in everyone’s memory. Be prepared for a lot of compliments and some very empty plates.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fish Cakes
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Crunchy, golden, and perfectly rolled, Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are the snack that keeps hands reaching across the table. They’re portable enough to enjoy on the go but fulfilling enough to hold their own among any spread. Each bite delivers a perfectly balanced mix of texture and flavor that makes them hard to resist. You might find yourself running out before anyone’s even had a chance to count how many they’ve had.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Paneer Rolls
Flaky, warm, and filled with savory goodness, Paneer Rolls bring an undeniable charm to the snack spread. They’re just the right size to grab and go, making them a favorite for mingling guests. Each bite feels fulfilling without being too heavy, keeping everyone happy as they wait for the main course. Serve these, and you’ll be hearing about them long after the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Paneer Rolls
Instant Pot Shrimp
Plump, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, Instant Pot Shrimp brings a refreshing change of pace to any snack lineup. They’re light enough to keep things casual but flavorful enough to feel like something special. Serve them chilled or warm, and they’ll hold their own in any crowd. Just make sure you’ve got enough because these disappear faster than you’d think.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp
Thai Curry Puffs
Golden, flaky, and bursting with flavor, Thai Curry Puffs are the kind of snack that makes people stop mid-conversation. Each bite offers a rewarding mix of textures and just enough kick to keep things interesting. They’re easy to grab, easy to love, and hard to forget. Watch how quickly these turn into the highlight of the snack table.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curry Puffs
Air Fryer Empanadas
Crisp on the outside, hearty on the inside, Air Fryer Empanadas are the snack that feels like a meal but doesn’t ruin your appetite. They’ve got just enough flavor to stand out without stealing the thunder from the rest of the spread. Perfectly portioned and endlessly rewarding, they make a strong case for skipping dinner altogether. Serve these, and you’ll see why they’re always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas
Bang Bang Shrimp
Lightly crispy and coated in a tangy, spicy sauce, Bang Bang Shrimp brings a fun twist to the pre-dinner routine. Each bite is the perfect mix of crunch and flavor, keeping everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s the texture or the kick of the sauce, these shrimp know how to work a crowd. Don’t be surprised if this snack ends up being the star of the evening.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp