100+ Fourth of July Appetizers You Have to Make This Year

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Here’s a fantastic way to deliver all that blazing jalapeno popper taste without the work. Whenever I bring this jalapeno popper dip recipe to a party, I’m always asked for the recipe. Serve with corn chips, tortilla chips or butter crackers. —Jennifer Wilke, Collinsville, Illinois

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Planning your menu for the Fourth? Check out our favorite Fourth of July recipes.

Nacho Triangles with Salsa-Ranch Dipping Sauce

These nacho bites are a fun fusion of Greek appetizers and flavors of the American Southwest. The simple dipping sauce is a perfect match—the ranch balances out the heat of the jalapeno and chipotle peppers—and takes the recipe to the next level. —Angela Spengler, Niceville, Florida

For a fun new appetizer tradition, bust out this 4th of July charcuterie board.

Mini Cheese Balls

These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for the Fourth of July. Roll them in toasted sesame seeds, fresh rosemary and/or paprika to add even more flavor. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina

Whether you’re looking for something traditional or fresh and different, you’ll love these Fourth of July menu ideas.

Slow-Cooker Sticky Chicken Wings

My neighbor once shared these slow-cooker sticky chicken wings with me at a potluck, and they have been a family favorite ever since. —Jo Vanderwolf, Lillooet, British Columbia

Looking for some festive desserts? Discover our favorite Fourth of July pies.

Watermelon Feta Flag Salad

Our family celebrates the Fourth of July with a watermelon salad that resembles the flag. Here’s an all-American centerpiece that’s truly red, white and blue. —Jan Whitworth, Roebuck, South Carolina

Throwing a big barbecue? Discover our best 4th of July recipes for a crowd.

Cheesy Meatball Sliders

These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Keep the seasonal sides coming! These summer side dishes are irresistible.

Rhubarb Bruschetta

Fresh rhubarb jam is spooned over cheese-topped bruschetta for a delightful Fourth of July appetizer. Spread the goat cheese on toasted bread slices as soon as they are removed from the broiler. —Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington

Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs

My daughter Sara loves spicy Buffalo chicken and deviled eggs, so I combined the two. Make and chill a day ahead so the flavors mingle. —Robin Spires, Tampa, Florida

Simmered Smoked Links

No one can resist the sweet and spicy glaze on these bite-sized sausages. They’re effortless to prepare, and they make a perfect Fourth of July appetizer. Serve them on frilled toothpicks to make them extra fancy.

Special Stuffed Strawberries

These sweet bites can be made ahead of time, and they look really colorful on a tray. I will sometimes sprinkle the piped filling with finely chopped pistachio nuts. —Marcia Orlando, Boyertown, Pennsylvania

Herbed Feta Dip

Guests can’t get enough of this thick, zesty dip that bursts with fresh Mediterranean flavor. The feta cheese and fresh mint complement each other beautifully, creating the perfect sidekick for crunchy carrots, toasted pita chips, sliced baguettes or any other dipper you fancy. —Rebecca Ray, Chicago, Illinois

Savory Cucumber Sandwiches

Italian salad dressing is an easy way to add zip to this simple spread. You can also use it as a dip with crackers and veggies or a sandwich filling. —Carol Henderson, Chagrin Falls, Ohio

If you like vintage recipes, discover Grandma’s all-time favorite Fourth of July recipes.

Spanakopita

I love having appetizers on hand in the freezer, especially when the holiday season is fast approaching. This easy spanakopita recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Everyone loves them, they're easy to prep and they bake up in about 20 minutes. —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta

Homemade Guacamole

Nothing is better than freshly made guacamole when you're eating something spicy. It is easy to whip together in a matter of minutes and quickly tames anything that's too hot. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Fried Lemon-Pepper Wings

These lemon-pepper wings are perfect as Fourth of July appetizers. Try these out if you’ve been stuck in a chicken wing rut. Add grated lemon zest to the butter mixture if you want a more pronounced lemon flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Fresh Shrimp and Avocado Nachos

I'm a fan of shrimp, and my family loves nachos. When I combined those favorites and added fresh avocado, the result was a cool yet satisfying snack. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Mozzarella Sticks

I'm particularly fond of these tasty mozzarella sticks because they're baked, not fried. Cheese is one of my family's favorite foods. Being of Italian descent, I cook often with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. —Mary Merchant, Barre, Vermont

For patriotic desserts, check out these spectacular Fourth of July desserts.

Lemon-Garlic Hummus

You'll need just five ingredients to blend together this smooth and creamy bean dip. It's delicious and quick to make. —Kris Capener, Ogden, Utah

Antipasto Skewers

This Fourth of July appetizer is quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for dinner parties, cocktail parties and everything in between! —Amanda Dekrey, Fargo, North Dakota

Discover more of our favorite healthy Fourth of July recipes.

Cajun Crab Poppers

My brother moved to New Orleans, and I love visiting him and his family whenever I can. These easy jalapeno poppers remind me of my time there. They are stuffed with crab, Cajun seasonings and bacon. —Elizabeth Lubin, Huntington Beach, California

Bacon Buffalo Chicken Dip

This Buffalo dip is a must-have appetizer at our annual Fourth of July backyard barbecue! It celebrates America’s love for Buffalo chicken dipped in heaps of creamy, tangy blue cheese dressing. And the bacon? That’s just a bonus! My kids aren’t big fans of blue cheese, but its strong flavor can be mellowed out by adding more mild cheddar in its place. —Katie O’Keeffe, Derry, New Hampshire

Pico de Gallo

This easy pico de gallo recipe is a classic for good reason. It pairs with just about everything! My tip is to let it chill for an hour or two before serving to help the flavors blend. Also, it's best to serve it the same day that it's made. —Jeannie Trudell, Del Norte, Colorado

Florentine Ciabatta

I came up with this Fourth of July appetizer because of my love for white pizza. I’ve served my ciabatta pizza at many holiday parties, and it’s always a big hit among both children and adults. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut

This pizza charcuterie board might also be a hit at any Fourth of July party.

Grilled Nectarines with Burrata and Honey

The classic caprese gets a sweet makeover with this inspired summer starter. Burrata, mint and honey are served over nectarine halves—or any stone fruit you like—in this creamy, dreamy dish. —Anthony Gans, Hawthorne, California

Dijon-Bacon Dip for Pretzels

With just four ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge, this quick appetizer comes together in a snap. If you like the zip of horseradish, start with a teaspoon or two and add more to taste. —Isabelle Rooney, Summerville, South Carolina

Grilled Teriyaki Beef Skewers

These beef skewers are easy to make and even easier to eat—perfect for a Fourth of July party! The horseradish cream sauce pairs well with the flavorful beef. —Linda Flaherty, Lake Worth, Florida

Chipotle Berry Fruit Salsa

Not too hot, but with a bit of a kick, this salsa is a perfect topping for grilled fish or chicken. It’s also a delectable chip dip—just double the recipe and watch it disappear. The spice is quite mild, but cut down on (or increase!) the chipotle peppers to suit your taste. If you like, add lime zest for an added twist. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

Chicken Cakes with Avocado Mango Sauce

These chicken cakes are a great Fourth of July appetizer. Or serve them for dinner tonight with a side of rice and your favorite vegetable! —Rachael Nodes, La Barge, Wyoming

Banh Mi Skewers

I love banh mi sandwiches but wanted to make them a little easier to serve for a party. These skewers are a really fun twist! For easier prep on the day of the party, make the meatballs in advance and freeze them. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Mini Burgers with the Works

I started preparing these mini burgers several years ago as a creative way to use up bread crusts accumulating in my freezer. They're delicious. —Linda Lane, Bennington, Vermont

Aunt Karen’s Shrimp Salad

When unexpected company calls during the holidays, this shrimp salad is the perfect fit. It’s quick to put together, too, leaving you more time to spend with your guests. —Karen Moore, Jacksonville, Florida

Southwestern Star Dip

I enjoyed this sensational dip at a holiday party and begged for the recipe. Now others are the ones begging me! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Peachy-Keen Halloumi Fritters

Use up the season’s juicy, sun-ripened peaches in this corn fritter recipe filled with gooey Halloumi cheese and sweet onions. These fritters are decadent and slightly sweet, and homegrown herbs add a fresh taste. The addition of prosciutto makes this recipe feel fancy with little effort. —Chainey Kuykendall, Richmond, Virginia

BLT Macaroni Salad

A friend served this BLT pasta salad, and I just had to get the recipe. My husband loves BLT sandwiches, so this has become a favorite of his. It's nice to serve on hot and humid days, which we frequently get during summer here in Virginia. —Mrs. Hamilton Myers Jr., Charlottesville, Virginia

Quick Tortilla Pinwheels

Prepare these easy, cheesy rollups several days in advance if desired. Serve with your choice of mild or hot salsa or picante sauce. —Barbara Keith, Faucett, Missouri

Smoky Jalapenos

When I make these Fourth of July appetizers, there are no leftovers. They can also be made with mild banana peppers or yellow chili peppers. —Melinda Strable, Ankeny, Iowa

Savory Stuffed Cherry Peppers

Our family’s holiday dinners include a giant antipasto, and my mom’s anchovy stuffed peppers are always the star dish. There isn’t a holiday that we don’t make them in her honor. Serve warm or cold with a nice loaf of Italian bread and a glass of wine. —Donna Scarano, East Hanover, New Jersey

Grilled Elote Flatbread

Here’s a fun twist on a classic Mexican dish! Keep your kitchen cooled down during the summer by grilling this fresh flatbread outdoors for a Fourth of July appetizer. —Amanda Phillips, Portland, Oregon

Spiced Sweet Potato Fries

A spicy homemade seasoning blend shakes up everyone’s favorite finger food in this rendition of sweet potato fries. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Coconut Chicken and Shrimp

I was looking for a fun, easy weeknight dinner based on our favorite shrimp dish that was healthier than fast food. This has become a favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York

Fresh Corn & Avocado Dip

I alter my sister's recipe by adding finely chopped jalapeno for a little heat. This is a different way of serving corn as a dip that can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. —Pat Roberts, Thornton, Ontario

Easy Fried Green Tomatoes

My grandmother came up with her own version of easy fried green tomatoes years ago. Our family loves it. It’s a traditional taste of the South that anyone anywhere can enjoy! —Melanie Chism, Coker, Alabama

Juicy Watermelon Salad

This fruit salad has such a surprising yet fabulous mix of flavors that friends often ask for the recipe. Combine seedless watermelon varieties in yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist. —Heidi Haight, Macomb, Michigan

Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket

For New Year’s, I used to make pigs in a blanket with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin

Spicy Pickled Grapes

I love sweet and spicy flavors, so I created these pickled grapes. They are excellent as a Fourth of July appetizer, a sneaky addition to salads or a topper in your favorite Bloody Mary. —Carla Hinkle, Memphis, Tennessee

Chili Queso Dip

I’ve had this recipe for more than 42 years and have updated it from time to time. This is an easy party favorite, and everyone loves the taquito dippers. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Pizza Puffs

What’s more fun than a pizza puff? Skip the kind sold in the frozen-foods aisle and try this homemade version. You can substitute any meat or vegetable for the pepperoni and any cheese for the mozzarella. —Vivi Taylor, Middleburg, Florida

Garden Tomato Salad

For as long as I can remember, Mom made a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers. Now I make it whenever beautiful tomatoes are in reach. —Shannon Arthur, Upper Arlington, Ohio

Mini Pizza Cups

Served hot or cold, these little pizzas are wonderful. Their small size makes them ideal as a Fourth of July appetizer. Plus, they’re so easy to make that little ones can help you in the kitchen! —Jane Jones, Cedar, Minnesota

Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls

My husband loves Buffalo wings, but they are so messy! These Buffalo chicken rolls are mess-free and always go fast at parties—and they’re much tastier than regular Buffalo wings, if you ask me. —Tiffinie Cichon, Gulfport, Mississippi

Sauteed Tarragon Radishes

Who says radishes only belong in salads? These sauteed radishes are cooked in wine and tarragon, and may just change the way you look at radishes forever. They can be served on their own, or added to your favorite au gratin recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Grilled Loaded Potato Rounds

My go-to recipe for Fourth of July appetizers is an awesome potato side. I prep everything beforehand, then assemble and grill at the party. Serve with sour cream, cheese, bacon and chives. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas

Sticky Sesame Cauliflower

Sesame chicken is one of my favorite takeout dishes, but I’m doing what I can to cut unnecessary calories and fat. This sticky sesame cauliflower recipe gives me an alternative that uses fresh vegetables and never compromises on flavor. —Anthony Ashmore, Bohemia, New York

Loaded Baked Potato Dip

I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota

Stuffed Baked Tomatoes

I make this baked stuffed tomatoes dish often because my family really likes it. Besides being flavorful, the tomatoes make a colorful, zesty addition to any dinner. —Edna Jackson, Kokomo, Indiana

Miniature Corn Dogs

Fun-sized corn dogs add a little "wow" factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them, so expect them to disappear fast. —Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana

Hawaiian Kielbasa

Looking for a fun Fourth of July appetizer? Salty, savory sausage teams up with juicy, tangy pineapple for a winning combination that you can prep in a flash. The sweet barbecue-style sauce is a tasty way to tie them together.

Brat & Bacon Appetizer Pizza

Chopped bratwurst and maple bacon are a fabulous way to start a pizza. I jazz up this treat even more with apricot preserves and honey mustard. The snack-sized slices win over even the toughest critics. —Colleen Vrooman, Waukesha, Wisconsin

Fruit and Cheese Board

Who says cheese and sausage get to have all the fun? Make this fruit charcuterie board a party go-to with any that are in season. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Honey and Ale Pulled Chicken Sliders

Score big with your guests with a little bit of sweet heat! This recipe works well for a football party—the extra liquid in the slow cooker keeps the chicken nice and juicy all day long. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland

Zucchini Pico de Gallo Salsa

I love veggies and fresh ingredients this time of year. I make big bowls of this salsa, which we eat with pretty much everything in the summer when tomatoes are bountiful. My kids love it, though I leave out the jalapeno when making it for them. —Amy Gattuso, Madison Heights, Michigan

Chicken & Bacon Roll-Ups

My children like these so much that they ask for them every day for lunch during the summer. Whenever I have leftover chicken or turkey breast, this is a delicious way to use it up. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Valley, California

Smoked Gouda & Roast Beef Pinwheels

Our local deli makes terrific roast beef sandwiches. This pinwheel appetizer re-creates the taste. My family says the pinwheels have so many flavors for such a little treat. —Pamela Shank, Parkersburg, West Virginia

Mini Mac & Cheese Bites

Young relatives were coming for a Christmas party, so I wanted something fun for them to eat. Instead, the adults devoured my mini mac and cheese. —Kate Mainiero, Elizaville, New York

Herbed Steak Fries

Seasoned to perfection, these herbed steak fries from our Test Kitchen make a quick and tasty Fourth of July appetizer. A great way to dress up frozen fries in a hurry!

Bacon Cheddar Jalapenos

Take these cheesy, fiery Fourth of July appetizers straight to the grill so you can add a touch of smoke. We pass them with bowls of guacamole and sour cream. —Wayne E. Barnes, Montgomery, Alabama

Baked Sweet Corn Croquettes

These delicious corn croquettes are baked like muffins instead of fried. They can be served with butter, but my family prefers salsa as an accompaniment. —Karen Kuebler, Dallas, Texas

One-Bite Tamales

Clever little meatballs deliver the flavor and rich sauce of a traditional tamale in a bite-sized portion. They’re a delightfully different addition to a holiday spread. —Dolores Jaycox, Gretna, Louisiana

Gentleman's Whiskey Bacon Jam

You can slather this smoky bacon jam on pretty much anything. It lasts only a week in the fridge, so I freeze small amounts for a quick snack with crackers. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Greek Ouzo Pork Kabobs

Eat dinner as the Mediterraneans do with these delightfully different kabobs. Ouzo and the tzatziki dipping sauce give you a real taste of the Greek islands. —Francine Lizotte, Surrey, British Columbia

Watermelon Cups

This lovely Fourth of July appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Slow-Cooker Meatballs

This idea came to me while sitting on the back porch. The combination of meats and ingredients in the sauce produce slow-cooker meatballs unlike any I’ve ever had. —Justin Boudreaux, Walker, Louisiana

Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini Peppers

Mini peppers are so colorful and are the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. —Christine Hanover, Lewiston, California

Makeover Deviled Eggs

This updated version of a classic Fourth of July appetizer uses only half the egg yolks of the original recipe and calls for soft bread crumbs to help firm up the filling. We replaced the mayo with fat-free mayonnaise and reduced-fat sour cream. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Healthy Spinach Dip

I needed something healthy and low in fat to take to a get-together, so I experimented and came up with this dip. It's packed full of flavor and color. Served with assorted veggies, bread or crackers, it's always a hit. People ask for the recipe every time. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota

Mini Chicken Chimis with Jalapeno Cream Cheese

These zippy chicken chimi bites bring a little heat to any fiesta. Serve them on their own as appetizers, or with rice and black beans for a satisfying meal. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona

Nacho Tots

This is an easy, versatile party appetizer that everyone loves. If you can't find chorizo, ground beef or ground chicken are wonderful, too. Top with anything you like! —Connie Krupp, Racine, Wisconsin

Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing

A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois

Chive Crab Cakes

These tasty crab cakes are perfect for Fourth of July appetizers, or try them with a salad for a light meal. —Cindy Worth, Lapwai, Idaho

Air-Fryer Empanadas

I entertain a lot, so I appreciate make-ahead recipes. These air-fryer empanadas are easy and delicious. I recommend making a few extra batches—they go fast! —Lynn Scully, Rancho Santa Fe, California

Quick Watermelon Salsa

On hot days, this sweet combo of watermelon, pineapple and fresh cilantro has everything you want. The flavors blend beautifully, it’s pretty, and it comes together in no time. —Betsy Hanson, Tiverton, Rhode Island

Ham Pickle Pinwheels

My mom introduced me to this ham pickle pinwheels appetizer a number of years ago, and I’ve been making them for parties ever since. They are easy to make and are always well received by guests. —Gloria Jarrett, Loveland, Ohio

Grilled Kiwi-Chicken Kabobs with Honey-Chipotle Glaze

When guests bite into these juicy grilled kabobs, their eyes always widen with satisfaction. Our four kids are crazy about the spicy-sweet sauce. —Joni Hilton, Rocklin, California

Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Chips

This air-fryer sweet potato chips recipe is so quick and easy. Be sure to give the sweet potato slices a quick soak in cold water to help remove some of the excess starch. —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois

Bacon-Encased Water Chestnuts

My husband and I do lots of entertaining and always start off with appetizers like these tempting morsels.—Midge Scurlock, Creston, Iowa

Puff Pastry Apple Strudel

This puff pastry apple strudel is such a fun recipe. It can be served alone or with a side salad. Different types of cheese, like goat, feta or jack, can be used in this dish. —Donna-Marie Ryan, Topsfield, Massachusetts

Homemade Pierogi

Pierogi, dumplings stuffed with a filling, make for a wonderful change-of-pace Fourth of July appetizer. —Diane Gawrys, Manchester, Tennessee

Chocolate Chip Dip

Is there a kid around (or a kid at heart) who wouldn’t gobble up this cookie dough dip with graham crackers? It beats dunking them in milk, hands down! You can also try it with apple wedges. —Heather Koenig, Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin

Roasted Veggie Quesadillas

This veggie quesadilla recipe gets its unique flavor from a special blend of roasted vegetables. They’ll be a popular finger food at any gathering.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Cucumber-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Besides being tasty, these little tomato poppers are extra awesome because you can make them ahead of time. At parties, I often triple the recipe because they disappear fast. —Christi Martin, Elko, Nevada

Lemony Bacon-Artichoke Dip

Move over, spinach-artichoke dip—bacon adds much more flavor. You might want to double the recipe because there are never any leftovers. —Heidi Jobe, Carrollton, Georgia

Creamy Crab Wontons

How about a fast Fourth of July appetizer just for two? These hot, crispy crab wontons boast a rich and creamy filling. They simply melt in your mouth. —Robin Boynton, Harbor Beach, Michigan

Barbecued Meatballs

Grape jelly and chili sauce are the secrets that make these meatballs so fantastic. If I’m serving them at a party, I prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and reheat them right before guests arrive. —Irma Schnuelle, Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Blue Cheese & Bacon Stuffed Peppers

Whenever I put out a plate of these cute little Fourth of July appetizers, people come flocking. Good thing there are lots of peppers in each bag. —Tara Cruz, Kersey, Colorado

Eggplant Parmesan Sliders

These party-ready eggplant parmesan sliders are easy for guests to grab (and are vegetarian-friendly!). The lemon-ricotta spread really adds a level of flavor to these delicious bites. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas

Garden-Fresh Seafood Cocktail

For something cool on a hot day, we mix shrimp and crabmeat with crunchy veggies straight from the garden. Look for adobo seasoning in your grocery’s international section. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Hot Cheese Dip

When a colleague brought this cheesy dip to school for a teachers potluck, I immediately gave it an A+. I had to have the recipe for this irresistibly creamy recipe to make for my family! —Ardyce Piehl, Poynette, Wisconsin

Orange-Pistachio Quinoa Salad

Add this fresh and healthy quinoa recipe to your holiday spread. Its citrusy, nutty taste is simply delicious. —Jean Greenfield, San Anselmo, California

Bruschetta from the Grill

Dijon mustard, mayonnaise and oregano make a savory spread for chopped tomatoes, garlic and fresh basil in this fun twist on a favorite appetizer. This grilled bruschetta gets rave reviews every time I serve it. —Mary Nafis, Chino, California

Pressure-Cooker Cheddar Bacon Ale Dip

My tangy, smoky dip won the top prize at our office party recipe contest. Use whatever beer you like, but steer clear of dark varieties. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Eggplant Flatbread Pizzas

I'm now a professional chef, but I loved making this recipe for the family on Friday nights as a home cook. We like to shake pizza up with unique, fresh toppings. —Christine Wendland, Browns Mills, New Jersey

Caprese Salad Kabobs

Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

9-Layer Greek Dip

Instead of serving the same taco dip at every family event or potluck, try this light, cool and refreshing Greek dip. It looks and tastes healthy—and it is. —Shawn Barto, Winter Garden, Florida

Chili-Lime Roasted Chickpeas

Looking for a lighter Fourth of July appetizer that’s still a crowd-pleaser? You’ve found it! This zesty, crunchy chickpea recipe will have everyone happily munching. —Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina

Fresh Fruit Bowl

The glorious colors of the fruit make this a festive salad. Slightly sweet and chilled, it makes a nice accompaniment to a grilled entree. —Marlon Kirst, Troy, Michigan