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29 Poolside Ready Cold Appetizer Recipes for Summer

Aug 29, 2022(updated Jun 2, 2023)

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Keep cool in the heat with these Poolside Ready Cold Appetizer Recipes for Summer. From creamy dips made with sour cream to refreshing tomato salsas, each one of these 29 recipes from around the internet is easy to make and packed with flavor!

A collage of three images. From the left, a bowl of creamy chunky artichoke dip with dill and pepper on top. The center is a white plate with a beige dip topped with green herbs and olive oil. On the right is a creamy pale green dip with cilantro and jalapeños on top.
These three Cup of Zest favorites are here to party for summer! From left to right: Chunky Artichoke and Jalapeño Dip, Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip (vegan-friendly!), and my favorite, a Jalapeño Greek Yogurt Dip!

Cool down while filling up on these cold appetizers for summer

Summer is all about celebrating! There are endless opportunities to soak in the gorgeous weather while enjoying a cocktail and handfuls of snacks. And when it comes to choosing the right snacks, you can always count on this list of Cold Appetizer Recipes for Summer! 

Explore the extensive list to find your next best recipe to serve at the pool party or for the Fourth of July. And don’t even think about going near an oven! Each one of these no-bake summer recipes is easy to make and bursting with bright and refreshing flavors. They'll keep you cool all season long!

The best time to serve cold appetizers 

You can always count on a cold appetizer to keep you feeling refreshed throughout the hot days of summer. They’re especially great when served during summer events and holidays, like pool parties, backyard BBQs, summer nights with friends, bridal and baby showers, garden parties, Fourth of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and more.

FAQs about cold appetizers for summer

There are a few things to know before you go looking for cold appetizer ideas:

What is a cold appetizer?

A cold appetizer is any bite-sized, shareable, and snack-like food that’s served cold or at room temperature. There’s no need for heat lamps or ovens here!

overhead image of multiple pieces of toasted baguette on a wooden cutting board topped with a tomato basil and balsamic mixture. there is a bowl of the mixture on the board as well
Summer ripe cherry tomatoes and a baguette come together to make these Tomato Basil Bruschetta Crostini that a crowd will love!

Why make cold appetizers for summer get-togethers?

When it’s hot outside, the last thing you might want is a hot plate of food because it’s only going to make you feel warmer. Cold appetizers can be made without turning the oven on, keeping both you and the house cool.

Can they be made ahead of time?

Yes, there are plenty of ​​easy make ahead cold appetizers to choose from. The storage and directions will vary from recipe to recipe. Check the notes in the linked recipes below before you get started.

What type of cold appetizers are there?

So many! There are a variety of categories to choose from, like:

  • Cold dips: These have a creamy dairy or non-dairy base and are enhanced with fresh flavor boosters. Give these cold dips time to chill in the fridge to help the flavors mingle together before serving with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
  • Skewers: Think kabobs, but without any cooking! Most cold skewer recipes are a breeze to put together. All you need to do is thread bite-sized snacks (like fresh fruit, vegetables, or cheese) onto wooden skewers and you’re done.
  • Elegant appetizers: These are what you want if you’re hosting a formal or close-to-formal event. Most ​​elegant cold appetizers feature homemade crostini, meaning they’re hand-held and can be eaten in two bites or less (no mess included). 
  • Finger foods: Just think of finger foods as elegant appetizers on vacation. They too can be eaten in one or two bites, but don’t need the refined flavors or a stylish presentation. Think deviled eggs and easy bites...casual is the name of the game!
  • Salsa: Salsa recipes are all about bringing fresh produce together into one bold and flavorful dip. You can make tomato-based salsas, fresh salsa from pineapple or mango, or a more hearty salsa from beans and corn. There are endless ways to enjoy this classic appetizer.
close up on a cracker with white herb ricotta dip.
10 minutes is all you need for this super easy Garlic and Herb Whipped Ricotta Dip.

How do you keep appetizers cold during summer?

You can learn how to keep the appetizers cool and crisp with this guide on How To Keep Food Cold During A Party. You don’t need special equipment - just ice, bowls, and serving platters!

Cold appetizer ideas for summer

Voila! A collection of refreshing and flavorful snacks for summer!

The list is broken down into the above categories for easy searching. Stick to one category or explore them all - there’s something for everyone here!

You’ll find 29 cold appetizer recipes from myself and other recipe content creators below. If you make one of their delicious recipes, please leave a comment on their blog post so they can hear what you think.

Dips

Close up of a glass jar full of dip with chives on top and chips on the side.
1

Small Batch Shallot Dip

You and your friends will love this Small Batch Shallot Dip. Golden-brown shallots are mixed together with rich sour cream and mayo to create a sweet and savory dip that’s perfect for small celebrations.
Get Recipe
Close up of a pink bowl holding white dip with green herbs on top
2

Easy Cold Smoked Salmon Dip

This Easy Cold Smoked Salmon Dip brings elegant flavors together in one simple 15-minute snack. So creamy, vibrant, and light, it’s an impressive appetizer for any occasion!
Get Recipe
jalapeno dip in a white bowl next to tortilla chips and sliced jalapenos
3

Jalapeño Greek Yogurt Dip

Looking for a zesty and creamy party dip? This Jalapeño Greek Yogurt Dip will do the trick! It’s easy to make ahead of time, uses simple ingredients, and is guaranteed to bring a little heat and excitement to the snack table. Serve the dip cold with tortilla chips or a plate of cut veggies.
Get Recipe
An oval bow filled with a creamy dip topped with walnuts, blueberries, cinnamon and honey.
4

Whipped Feta Dip with Honey

This creamy sweet and salty Whipped Feta Dip with Honey is a fantastic cold appetizer that is best served with apples, pineapple and fruit you like! (Recipe from Lynn's Way of Life)
Get Recipe

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    A pale green yogurt dip in a blue bowl next to a pie of cucumbers.
    5

    Cacik - Turkish Yogurt Dip

    A popular Turkish side dish made with yogurt, cucumbers and garlic, delicious as an appetiser or side dish and takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
    Get Recipe
    A shallow dish filled with a creamy and herby dip topped with roasted grapes and a piece of crostini being dipped into it.
    6

    Ricotta Dip with Roasted Grapes

    This 7 ingredient Ricotta Dip with Roasted Grapes is a quick and delicious appetizer. Every bite is a flavor bomb no one will be able to resist. (Recipe from Entirely Elizabeth)
    Get Recipe
    Overhead of a bowl filled with a creamy white dip, topped with a yellow sauce and chopped basil.
    7

    Whipped Lemon Ricotta

    This creamy lemon ricotta is whipped to perfection, then topped with honey and fresh herbs. It’s a delicious appetizer, especially when paired with crispy crostini or a fresh baguette. (Recipe from Food Banjo)
    Get Recipe
    A platter of crackers surrounding a bowl of white dip. Small plates with crackers and dip on the side.
    8

    Garlic and Herb Whipped Ricotta Dip

    This Garlic and Herb Whipped Ricotta Dip is almost too good to be true. Ricotta cheese, fresh garlic, and a handful of herbs quickly blend together and transform into a luscious party dip. Finish it with a few toppings and dig in!
    Get Recipe

    Dairy-free dips

    Close up of white creamy dip in a white bowl with herbs and oil on top
    9

    Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

    This irresistibly creamy snack is easy to make in minutes! All you need is roasted garlic, cannellini beans, and cashews.
    Get Recipe
    Overhead of a light orange dip toped with herb leaves in a white bowl with cucumber and red peppers next to it.
    10

    Dairy-Free Sun-Dried Tomato Dip

    Easy to make in a food processor in 15 minutes, this creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Dip uses white beans in place of cream cheese and sour cream.
    Get Recipe
    Best Roasted Beet Hummus Recipe
    11

    Best Roasted Beet Hummus Recipe

    A roasted beet hummus recipe choc-full of plant-based goodness & flavor. Pair it w/ fresh vegetables, whole wheat pita chips or slather it on toast. Yum!
    Get Recipe

    Pro Tip!

    • Picking out some recipes for your next Summer party? Make sure to serve an option or two that is dietary restriction friendly!
    • Just because you eat dairy doesn't mean all of your guests do!
    • This is supper important if you're hosting some new friends you don't know that well.
    a blue bowl of hummus surrounded by carrots, cucumbers, and pita bread.
    12

    Artichoke Hummus

    Artichoke hummus is a great way to mix up traditional hummus with a bright, tangy flavor that pairs well with vegetables or pita bread. Low carb and made without chickpeas, you’ll love this unique hummus recipe for parties, BBQ’s, or appetizers.
    Get Recipe

    Skewers

    Small skewers with classic salad ingredients on them, including lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, avocado and cucumber on it drizzled in a creamy dressing.
    13

    Wedge Salad Skewers Recipe | Princess Pinky Girl

    Salad on a stick is as fun way to switch up a traditional wedge salad recipe. Simply add your favorite salad ingredients to a skewer and top with dressing.
    Get Recipe
    A row of small skewers of cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze on a platter.
    14

    Caprese Skewers

    These Caprese Skewers are the perfect appetizers. No cook time required, and so easy and quick to assemble. Takes only 20 minutes or less.
    Get Recipe
    Cubes of watermelon topped with a piece of prosciutto and shredded greens on a skewer.
    15

    Melon & Prosciutto Skewers With Greens

    Are you on the lookout for a fresh and zesty summer appetizer? These melon and prosciutto skewers will be just the thing you need!
    Get Recipe
    Whole30 Cucumber Bites
    16

    Whole30 Cucumber Bites

    These Whole30 Cucumber Bites are healthy appetizers that are dairy free, gluten free, & paleo. An easy recipe to take your entertaining to the next level!
    Get Recipe

    Elegant

    A white plate with a crostini topped with herb cream cheese, cold smoked salmon, thinly sliced shallots and dill.
    17

    Smoked Salmon Appetizer Crostini with Cream Cheese

    These cute canapés layered with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and shallots will be loved by everyone at the brunch or garden party.
    Get Recipe
    close up of crostini topped with radishes and butter and chives
    18

    Radishes and Butter Crostini Appetizer

    Bring France to your home with this easy and colorful snack. The vibrant radishes are so inviting, while the butter, crostini, and salt complete each bite.
    Get Recipe
    Pieces of endive filled with chopped strawberries, goat cheese, and seeds on a white plate.
    19

    Endive Appetizer with Strawberry Relish

    Perfect as a cold summer appetizer or for a NYE party, these elegant endive appetizers are stuffed with goat cheese, pepitas, and strawberries (or other fruits like apples!). Easy to make in just 15 minutes and healthy, you’ll love these endive boats!
    Get Recipe

    Finger foods

    vertical close up of a piece of toasted bread topped with a tomato basil and balsamic mixture on top of a wooden cutting board
    20

    Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe

    My ultra-refreshing bruschetta is piled onto a crisp crostini, then topped with balsamic glaze. They’re an easy appetizer you can serve at any summer event.
    Get Recipe
    Six pieces of crostini on a white plate topped with ricotta, honey and thyme leaves with a honey dipper on the plate.
    21

    Whipped Ricotta Crostini

    This ​​Whipped Ricotta Crostini is the dreamiest and creamiest party appetizer ever! Full of garlicky flavors and topped with a drizzle of honey, this light and creamy snack is a playful toss-up between savory and sweet.
    Get Recipe
    A large bowl of plump cooked shrimp garnished with lemon wedges next to two bowls of sauce.
    22

    Easy Shrimp Appetizer with Dipping Sauces

    This delicious and decadent Easy Shrimp Appetizer comes with two creamy dipping sauces. A real crowd pleaser and so easy to make - its the perfect dish for relaxed entertaining!
    Get Recipe
    A small tortilla chip cup filled with avocado and topped with a well seasoned piece of shrimp.
    23

    Chili Lime Shrimp Cups

    These easy and fun chili lime shrimp cups are perfect for game day or for any party. Packed with flavor and very easy to assemble.
    Get Recipe
    One in thick rounds of cucumber topped with a creamy dip and dried tomato.
    24

    Avocado Goat Cheese Cucumber Appetizers

    These gorgeous cucumber appetizers are topped with a flavour-packed avocado and goat cheese mixture. The perfect healthy little bites for entertaining!
    Get Recipe

    Deviled eggs

    25

    Tangy Deviled Eggs

    My Tangy Deviled Eggs take the classic and kick it up a notch! They get their pop of tang from rice vinegar, Korean hot pepper flakes, and scallions.
    Get Recipe
    Deviled eggs with a light green filling on a small plate.
    26

    Avocado Deviled Eggs

    These avocado deviled eggs swap the mayonnaise for avocados, and are creamy, delicious, and healthier than the classic recipe! (Recipe from Urban Farmie)
    Get Recipe

    Salsas

    Overhead of a bowl of finely chopped peaches and tomatoes surrounded by tortilla chips.
    27

    Fresh Peach Salsa

    7 ingredients, 15 minutes, fresh salsa! This version of peach salsa uses fresh OR canned peaches and includes instructions for mild/spicy.
    Get Recipe
    Close up of a bowl filled with a salsa made of corn, tomatoes, red onion and peaches with a tortilla chip sticking into it.
    28

    Peach Salsa with Corn and Tomatoes

    Fresh peaches, tomatoes and corn are combined for a fresh and healthy salsa. Corn and Peach Salsa is a perfect summer appetizer.
    Get Recipe
    A glass bowl filled with a salsa made of tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and mango.
    29

    MANGO AND TOMATO SALSA

    Fresh mango and tomato salsa is sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy. A simple and colourful salsa recipe that is perfect as an appetizer with tortilla chips, on fish tacos, or with grilled chicken or pork.
    Get Recipe

    🎉 It's time to cook! 🎉

    Alright, friend! It's your turn to make one (or more!) of these delicious cold appetizers this summer.

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ When you do, please leave a comment and star rating below so we can hear what you think! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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