6. Don’t forget the fruit plate
While planning finger foods for a party, it’s easy to forget that the simplest foods are often the most delicious. In the summer months, head to your local market and pick up an array of seasonal fruit to cut and place artistically on a platter. Add a small container of toothpicks to keep the platter sanitary and your guests’ fingers clean!
7. Same goes for the veggie platter
The plant lovers in your life will delight in a veggie platter, but only if you spice it up a bit. Although you don’t need to get fancy with the vegetables—raw carrots, celery, mushrooms and cherry tomatoes will do—you should offer at least three dips to tempt any palate. One dip should be creamy, perhaps a Caesar or a ranch-style dressing. One should be a vinaigrette and to keep things interesting, the last one should include horseradish.
8. Sweet potato fries
Sweet potato fries are delicious and healthy. With just a touch of salt and pepper, they make the best finger food. To enhance them, throw in a little minced garlic and onion.
9. Crostini, crostini, crostini!
In Italian, crostini means “little toast.” Indeed, that’s pretty much all there is to this finger food. Brush each slice with a little olive oil before toasting and then add your favorite hot or cold topping. You can’t go wrong with either a rich pâté or a light topping made from fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella.
10. The perfect shrimp tray
Although peel-and-eat shrimp are a messy finger food, pre-peeled shrimp are a convenient option. The trick is to buy fresh shrimp, peel it before the party and then refrigerate until ready to serve. Make sure to place the shrimp over ice. Add a spicy, traditional cocktail sauce using ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce and a little hot sauce for a little kick. Don’t forget to add slices of lemon!
No matter which finger foods for a party you choose to make, make sure to have a variety that appeals to all eaters. Offer vegetarian options, at least three or four vegan options and meat choices as you see fit. Whip them all up before your party and then the only thing you’ll need to do after guests arrive is make sure to replenish trays as they start to empty. Enjoy!