Summer is a time for outdoor gatherings, pool parties, and barbeques, and what better way to enjoy the sunny weather than with some delicious finger foods? While chips are a classic snack option, they can often be greasy and unhealthy. If you’re looking for fresh and healthy alternatives to chips for your summer entertaining, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore some fantastic finger food options that are perfect for summer entertaining.
Veggie Platter
A veggie platter is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a fresh and healthy snack option. It’s easy to put together and can be customized to suit your tastes. Start by selecting a range of veggies, such as carrots, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and celery, and arrange them on a platter. You can also add some hummus or tzatziki for dipping.
Fruit Skewers
Fruit skewers are a great way to add some sweetness to your summer entertaining. Choose a selection of colorful fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwi, and thread them onto skewers. You can even drizzle them with some honey or yogurt for added flavor.
Caprese Salad Skewers
Caprese salad skewers are a fresh and flavorful alternative to traditional chips. Simply skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a tasty and refreshing snack.
Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian dish that makes for a perfect summer finger food. Toast some baguette slices, top them with chopped tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, and serve for a light and delicious snack.
Sushi Rolls
Sushi rolls may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of finger foods, but they are an excellent option for summer entertaining. You can make them with a variety of fillings such as cucumber, avocado, and smoked salmon, and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.
Guacamole and Salsa
Guacamole and salsa are both delicious and healthy dips that pair perfectly with fresh veggies or tortilla chips. To make guacamole, mash ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and diced tomatoes, and serve with some chopped cilantro. For salsa, chop tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro, and mix with lime juice and salt.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic party food that can be made in advance and served at room temperature. Simply boil some eggs, remove the yolks, mix with mayonnaise, mustard, and paprika, and spoon back into the egg whites for a tasty and easy snack.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Grilled vegetable skewers are a healthy and delicious option for summer entertaining. Simply skewer some veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender. Serve with some balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Cheese Platter
A cheese platter is a classic party food that is perfect for summer entertaining. Choose a selection of cheeses such as cheddar, brie, and goat cheese, and serve with some crackers, fresh fruit, and nuts.
Hummus and Pita Chips
Hummus and pita chips are a healthy and delicious option for summer entertaining. You can make your hummus by blending chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor, and serve with some pita chips or fresh veggies for dipping.
Smoked Salmon Bites
Smoked salmon bites are an elegant and delicious option for summer entertaining. Simply top a slice of cucumber or baguette with cream cheese and a slice of smoked salmon, and garnish with dill for a beautiful and tasty snack.
Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a refreshing and healthy summer soup that can be served in small shot glasses for a unique and flavorful finger food. Simply blend together tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, garlic, and olive oil, and serve chilled with a small spoon.
Edamame
Edamame is a healthy and easy-to-prepare snack that’s perfect for summer entertaining. Simply boil or steam some edamame pods and sprinkle with salt for a delicious and protein-packed finger food.
Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are a great finger food option that can be customized to suit your tastes. You can make them with a variety of fillings such as spinach, bacon, and cheese, and serve them warm or at room temperature for an easy and delicious snack.
Watermelon and Feta Skewers
Watermelon and feta skewers are a refreshing and unexpected flavor combination that’s perfect for summer entertaining. Simply skewer cubes of watermelon and feta cheese, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful and delicious snack.
Chicken Satay
Chicken satay is a flavorful and protein-packed finger food that’s perfect for summer entertaining. Marinate chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and peanut butter, and grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with a side of peanut sauce for dipping.
Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Stuffed cherry tomatoes are a cute and flavorful option for summer entertaining. Simply scoop out the seeds from cherry tomatoes and fill them with a mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices for a delicious and bite-sized snack.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a tasty and easy-to-prepare option for summer entertaining. Simply skewer some shrimp and brush with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Grill until cooked through, and serve with a side of cocktail sauce for dipping.
Cucumber Cups
Cucumber cups are a refreshing and healthy finger food option that’s perfect for summer entertaining. Simply hollow out cucumber slices and fill them with a mixture of hummus, chopped veggies, and herbs for a delicious and easy snack.
Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips
Fruit salsa and cinnamon chips are a fun and tasty option for summer entertaining. Simply chop up a variety of fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple, and mix together with lime juice and honey for a sweet and flavorful salsa. Serve with cinnamon-sugar coated tortilla chips for dipping.
In conclusion, there are plenty of fresh and healthy finger food alternatives to chips that are perfect for summer entertaining. Whether you prefer veggies, fruits, or protein-packed snacks, there’s sure to be a finger food option that will impress your guests. So next time you’re planning a summer get-together, consider one of these delicious finger foods to serve alongside your favorite beverages and cocktails.