It’s fun to entertain in the summer, but it’s also nice to take a break from your hot kitchen. So, with that in mind, we’ve rounded up 15 easy, summer appetizers that don’t require any cooking at all — letting you spend more quality time outside. These simple recipes are big on flavor, and look beautiful, thanks to all that in-season summer produce. Most of these recipes can be made ahead of time, and stored in the fridge so that they’re perfectly chilled (and you’ll be too!) when it’s time to serve.
Mango, Peach and Pineapple Salsa
COOKIN4MYFAMILY
Jalapeño and lime give this fresh summer salsa just the right amount of zing. Serve with some crisp tortilla chips and an ice-cold beer.
Caprese on a Stick
KGora
If you’re looking to impress without too much effort, these cute Caprese sticks are exactly what you need. Opt for multi-colored cherry tomatoes for an even more vibrant presentation.
Basic Ceviche
Gerald Wilson
This fancy fish appetizer definitely has that wow factor, but it’s actually pretty simple to put together. Serve scooped over salad or with crispy chips for dipping.
Prosciutto e Melone (Italian Ham and Melon)
Buckwheat Queen
It doesn’t get any easier than this — sweet sun-ripened melon and salty Prosciutto. Serve with a glass of sparkling Prosecco, and you’ll feel like you’re in Italy.
Baby BLT
KGora
Just like the sandwich, but without the bread! Serve with some bread sticks on the side for a little extra crunch. Use prepared bacon to keep this recipe no-cook.
Chef John’s Gazpacho
Jennifer Baker
This deliciously cool gazpacho is spicy, sweet, and salty, and so refreshing for a summer picnic or barbeque. If it’s particularly warm out, chill your serving bowls in the freezer for a few minutes before dipping out the gazpacho.
Peaches with Burrata, Basil, and Raspberry Balsamic Syrup
foodiedelicious
Ripe, juicy peaches snuggle into creamy Burrata cheese, with a sweet and tart balsamic drizzle over the top. Scoop up this easy and impressive appetizer with slices of Italian bread. Use pre-made balsamic syrup, often found in the vinegar section of grocery stores, for a no-cook recipe.
Herb Watermelon Feta Salad
Kim’s Cooking Now
One of the best ways to enjoy watermelon this summer is this bold salad. The sweet fruit is balanced out with salty feta and herbaceous mint.
Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad
chibi chef
If you like your salads a little more protein-packed, you can’t beat this crunchy garbanzo bean salad with summer veggies. It stays crunchy even after a few days in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time.
Israeli Tomato and Cucumber Salad
France C
The key to this recipe is the mint, which makes the tomatoes and cucumber taste extra sweet and delicious. This is the perfect starter dish to serve alongside falafel, hummus, and freshly baked pita.
Pulled Chicken Pretzel Sliders
bd.weld
The beloved slider gets a crunchy twist by using pretzels as the base. Each bite is loaded up with barbeque chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon.
Jicama Appetizer
Soup Loving Nicole
Delightfully tangy, and just a little spicy, these crisp cuts of jicama are a refreshing appetizer for the summer months.
Cherry Tomatoes Filled with Goat Cheese
jnh7070
Cherry tomatoes are just right for a bite-sized treat. Here they’re loaded up with creamy goat cheese and vibrant fresh basil to create a summery appetizer.
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls
gielastic
Spring rolls make for an easy and filling appetizer. Simply stuff the rice paper with cooked shrimp, fresh herbs, and lettuce before rolling and serving with two flavorful sauces.
Mozzarella and Tomato Appetizer Tray
Bobby Sherwin
If you need an appetizer that’s eye-catching for your next summertime event, this is the recipe for you. Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes are layered together with roasted red peppers, capers, and herbs. Serve with bread for scooping.
Find More Summertime Appetizer Ideas
Chef John