We tend to be more mindful of the way we serve them these days – but nibbles are still the true hero of parties and get togethers.
Although most people put all their effort into the roast turkey or whole-baked snapper, you don’t want to underestimate a good starter.
They start the party like a culinary ice-breaker that gets everyone bonding by the food table and they help tide you over until the main meal (if you’ve got room left by then).
From seafood to delicious canapés, salads, dips, and more – we have all the finger food recipes you need to satisfy the hoard this Christmas.
Looking for more finger food ideas?
01
Sticky chicken wings
Who could resist a bowl of Asian-style sticky wings? Great for the barbecue, kids’ parties… any occasion, really.
02
Tomato and rocket tarts
These pretty little tomato and rocket tarts are a great vegetarian option for a platter of finger food. Rocket can be replaced with baby spinach. Add some baby basil leaves just before serving, if you like.
03
Field mushroom bruschetta
These big, meaty mushrooms topped with fetta make a delicious and protein-packed meal. Serve as a starter for a dinner party, finger food … or treat yourself to a quick nutritious lunch.
04
Bread crisps with confit tomatoes
Bread crisps with confit tomatoes
Looking for a new snack or canape? These slow-roasted tomatoes on bread crisps with ricotta and olive paste will impress your guests at your next party.
05
Prosciutto wrapped haloumi
Prosciutto and haloumi are a match made in nibble-platter heaven – or use this recipe to take this pumpkin, spinach and haloumi salad to the next level.
06
Marinated baby bocconcini with prosciutto
Marinated baby bocconcini with prosciutto
If you’re looking for a simple, tasty and appealing platter for a party then marinated baby bocconcini with prosciutto is your friend. Salty meat wrapped around mild, sweet cheese and spiked with basil. Perfect.
07
Salt and pepper squid
A slightly elevated version of the fish and chip staple, with za’atar for spice, and combined brown rice flour and breadcrumbs for satisfying crunch.
08
Zucchini koftas recipe with harissa yoghurt
Zucchini koftas recipe with harissa yoghurt
These flavourful vegetarian kofta are made with potatoes, grated zucchini, green onions, garlic, chilli, lemon and salt for a delicious starter.
09
Bruschetta
The beauty lies in the simple ingredients. Crusty toasted bread with fresh tomatoes. A popular addition to any antipasto plate, or perfect on its own.
10
Ham and cheese croquettes
The classic combination of oozy ham and cheese centre with a crunchy breadcrumb coating and served with a home-made tomato sauce.
11
Yoghurt and cucumber dip (tzatziki)
Light, fresh and creamy, this classic Greek tzatziki dip is beautiful enjoyed with vegetable sticks, crackers, bread and as part of a tasting plate when entertaining guests.
14
Marinated baby bocconcini with prosciutto
If you’re looking for a simple, tasty and appealing platter for a party then marinated baby bocconcini with prosciutto is your friend. Salty meat wrapped around mild, sweet cheese and spiked with basil. Perfect.
17
Smoked salmon sushi bites with pickled green onion
Smoked salmon sushi bites with pickled green onion
Perfect for passing around as finger food at a cocktail party or other celebration, these delicious little sushi bites are given added bite by their pickled green onion topper.
19
Smoked chicken canapes
Serve your guests this delicious canape that takes just 15 minutes to make. Just drizzle cranberry sauce over juicy chicken strips and serve on a crisp lettuce leaf.
21
Prosciutto wrapped haloumi
Prosciutto and haloumi are a match made in nibble-platter heaven – or use this recipe to take this pumpkin, spinach and haloumi salad to the next level.
22
Scallops with ginger and lemongrass
Scallops on the half-shell always make a spectacular dish, treat your friends to something special with these delicious ginger and lemongrass scallops.
23
Roasted parsnip hummus with warm spiced chick peas
Roasted parsnip hummus with warm spiced chick peas
The perfect healthy snack. This roasted parsnip hummus is topped with caramelised onions and chickpeas that will keep you reaching for more.
24
Oysters with chilli and ginger dressing
Oysters with chilli and ginger dressing
Fresh and full of flavour – oysters with chilli and ginger dressing. The perfect summer meal.
25
Fish scrolls with capsicum salsa
Fish scrolls with capsicum salsa
These delicious fish scrolls are beautiful topped with a zesty capsicum salsa – healthy, fresh and super tasty! They make the perfect finger food for dinner parties.
27
Dukkah prawn skewers
A Middle Eastern twist to grilled prawns with a nutty pistachio topping and creamy labne on the side.
28
Prawn cocktail with zucchini and mint salad
Since Christmas is all about indulgent fresh seafood, enjoy these delicious prawn cocktails with zucchini and mint salad. Perfect for the warm weather!
29
Beef carpaccio with rocket, parmesan and aioli
Beef carpaccio with rocket, parmesan and aioli
This light and full-of-flavour starter is the perfect way to start your five star meal.
30
Grape and apple salad with goat’s cheese
Grape and apple salad with goat’s cheese
An exotic salad with grapes, apples and goat’s cheese.
32
Warm spiced prawns with avocado salsa
Warm spiced prawns with avocado salsa
This light, fresh and flavoursome dish is perfect as a starter or finger food for dinner parties.
33
Five spice squid with lime mayonnaise
Five spice squid with lime mayonnaise
Excite your dinner guests with this crunchy, succulent and delicious five-spice squid, served with zingy lime mayonnaise. It makes the perfect share-plate for your next dinner party!
34
Kingfish carpaccio with tangy dressing
Kingfish carpaccio with tangy dressing
Sliced thin and served fresh with herbs and a lime and soy dressing, this seafood dish brings tang to a party appetizer.
36
Salmon quichettes
If you’re looking for a simple and tasty finger food to that will please a crowd, look no further than these salmon quichettes. They are delicious hot or cold and a also make a perfect after school snack.
