Wine and appetizers – a match made in heaven! If you’re like me, you enjoy sipping on a glass of red wine while nibbling on some tasty bites before dinner. I’ve got the ultimate list for you – 42 mouth-watering appetizers that pair perfectly with your favorite red wine. From the rich history to the bold flavors, it’s no wonder people love pairing red wine with small plates. The question is, which ones go best together?
If you’re sipping on a Pinot Noir, try something light and creamy like Black Truffle Brie. For Cabernet Sauvignon, spice things up with Bacon Ciabatta Crostini With Pimiento Cheese & Jalapeño – it’s a game-changer! And if you want a starter that will complement any type of red wine, look no further than #41. Whether you’re enjoying Merlot, Shiraz, Zinfandel, or a blend, this one won’t disappoint. So, are you ready to elevate your red wine experience?
Let’s get started and take it to the next level!
Ham & Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
These Ham and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups are the ultimate party pleasers. Not only do they require minimal effort to prepare, but their compact size belies a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. The combination of savory ham and creamy cheese is reminiscent of a breakfast sandwich, albeit with a more indulgent twist. As such, they’re an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and more formal dinner parties, as they’re sure to impress without requiring too much fuss.
Mini Grilled Cheese Sandwich Appetizers
These miniature grilled cheese sandwiches, crafted with aged cheddar and a sliced baguette, offer a delightful combination of cuteness, cheesiness, and tastiness. What truly sets them apart is their size – just large enough to satisfy your guests’ cravings without overwhelming them.
Smoky Beef Jerky Dip
Experience the rich flavors of this delectable dip, crafted from straightforward ingredients. Its savory, smoky, and meaty notes make it an ideal accompaniment to satisfy your cravings. What’s more, its versatility knows no bounds – not only is it a perfect pairing for chips, but it also complements veggies or crackers with equal aplomb.
Marinated Cheese
Indulge in the rich, savory flavor of Marinated Cheese, which only gets better with time. While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy it immediately, the longer you let it marinate, the more depth and complexity it develops. Pair this delightful cheese with your go-to snacks like crackers, celery sticks, or a crusty French baguette for an unparalleled culinary experience that will leave your taste buds singing in harmony.
Sweet & Sour Meatballs
Indulge in the luscious flavor of Sweet, and Sour Meatballs, a starter so divine it’ll leave you wondering, ‘What’s for dinner?’ This delectable dish is sure to put a smile on your face and leave you craving more. When it comes to pairing wine with this culinary delight, look no further than Cabernet Sauvignon – its dry, rich notes perfectly complement the sweet and sour flavors of the meatballs.
Black Truffle Brie
Indulge in a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to a state of pure ecstasy. The harmonious blend of mascarpone, truffle paste, and French brie creates a rich, creamy, and utterly decadent experience that justifies its premium price tag. Skeptics may wonder if the indulgence is worth the splurge, but trust us when we say it absolutely is. Once you’ve savored this Black Truffle Brie wheel for yourself, you’ll be convinced of its sublime magnificence.
Roast Beef Stackers
Indulge in the flavors of Roast Beef Stackers, the perfect companion for a night out with friends. These delectable appetizers are sure to delight, combining tender roast beef piled high with a tangy and creamy horseradish sauce and a burst of briny-sour pickle flavor. As you savor each bite, the rich flavors will leave you wanting more – so be prepared for seconds (or thirds, or fourths…!).
Paired with a glass of full-bodied red wine, this delightful combination is sure to elevate your evening.
Mini Calzones
Savoring each bite of these Mini Calzones is akin to indulging in a slice of authentic pizza, minus the need for a full-sized pie. The harmonious combination of juicy salami, rich ricotta, and provolone cheese nestled within the crispy crust creates an unparalleled snacking experience. Pair them with a glass of fruity red Italian wine that complements the sauce’s tanginess, allowing its subtle nuances to shine through.
Cheesy Sausage Wontons
Indulge in the delightful combination of crispy exterior and tender interior of these Sausage Wontons. Each bite-sized morsel is carefully crafted to contain a generous helping of savory sausage filling, perfectly balanced by a subtle seasoning that allows the natural flavors of the sausages to shine through.
Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Cucumber Appetizer
Kick off your next gathering with this delightful appetizer. Boasting a perfect blend of textures – crispy and creamy – it’s a treat that’s as visually stunning as it is deliciously flavorful. Not only will you appreciate the ease of preparation, but also the way it effortlessly brings together two seemingly opposing qualities: refined presentation and indulgent taste.
Bacon Ciabatta Crostini With Pimiento Cheese & Jalapeno
This elegant appetizer, Bacon Ciabatta Crostini with Pimiento Cheese and Jalapeno, is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Its simplicity belies its impressive flavor profile, which arises from the harmonious combination of crispy bread brushed with savory bacon grease, toasted to perfection, and topped with a sweetly candied jalapeño. The resulting bite is a masterclass in textures and tastes, making it an excellent companion to a rich red wine.
Chorizo, Manchego, & Olive Skewers
The star of these skewers is the chorizo, packed with a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors. It’s skillfully paired with Manchego cheese, which brings a rich nuttiness to the table. The combination is elevated by a sweet drizzle of honey and a crunchy sprinkle of silvered almonds, creating a truly festive experience on your palate.
Pigs In A Blanket
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of sausage-wrapped bites that will revolutionize your snack game. By simply enveloping sausage with a layer of flaky crescent rolls and baking until golden, you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying treat that’s anything but ordinary. The perfect accompaniment to this delightful appetizer is a tangy dipping sauce – try pairing it with spicy mayo or maple-dijon for an added layer of excitement.
Mini Quiche
Indulge in the convenience and versatility of Mini Quiche recipes, which effortlessly deliver quiche satisfaction without the commitment of a full-sized dish! These bite-sized marvels combine a buttery, flaky pie crust with a straightforward egg filling, making them perfect for any time of day – from morning breakfast to afternoon brunch or evening dinner.
The beauty lies in their adaptability, allowing you to add an array of flavors and ingredients such as ham, bacon, spinach, Swiss cheese, scallions, mushrooms, peppers, and many more, opening up a world of possibilities.
Potstickers
Potstickers offer a savory and satisfying twist on traditional dumplings. Their pan-seared preparation yields a delightful combination of crispy exteriors and tender interiors. A personal favorite is using pork for the filling, which results in an exceptionally juicy and flavorful outcome. However, feel free to experiment with chicken or beef if those options are more readily available.
Dried Beef Cheese Ball
Indulge in this mouthwatering cheeseball, a harmonious blend of sharp cheddar, savory Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic spices. The real showstopper, however, lies in its outer layer: a satisfying crunch provided by chopped pecans and crispy chipped beef. This delightful combination is sure to have everyone reaching for another piece.
When paired with a glass of Merlot, the cheeseball’s subtle saltiness perfectly complements the wine’s smooth, velvety texture, making it an ideal accompaniment to your next gathering.
Blueberry & Goat Cheese Crostini With Herbs & Honey
Indulge in the perfect combination of flavors with this delectable crostini! The creamy goat cheese offers a tangy contrast, while the juicy blueberries add a burst of tartness. A sprinkle of thyme subtly contributes earthy and lemony notes, harmonizing with the sweetness of the honey drizzle. This delightful blend is masterfully balanced, ensuring each bite is a symphony of flavors.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
If you’re seeking a delectable and effortless dish that can be prepared ahead of time, Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms should be your go-to choice. This mouthwatering recipe combines spicy-salty sausage with rich cream cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs to create a delightful treat that’s sure to impress everyone. With more sausage than breadcrumbs, you don’t have to worry about overfeeding your guests before the main course.
Bittersweet Roasted Radicchio With Ricotta & Dates
If you’re enamored with the complex flavors of bitter foods, this recipe will be a revelation. The roasted radicchio yields to a natural sweetness, which is beautifully offset by the creamy richness of ricotta and sweet dates. This harmonious balance makes for a truly unique culinary experience. When it comes to pairing wine with such a bold flavor profile, a dry and rich red wine like Valpolicella Ripasso or Amarone from Italy’s Veneto region proves an excellent match.
The wine’s sharp notes are perfectly poised to cut through the bitterness of the radicchio, creating a delightful symphony on the palate.
Caramelized Onion Tarts With Blue Cheese
Indulge in the sweet and savory harmony of Caramelized Onion Tarts, featuring succulent fig jam, pungent blue cheese, and buttery puff pastry crust. Baked to perfection and drizzled with honey, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress. The best part? They’re just as delicious served fresh from the oven or at room temperature. Perfect for pairing with a glass of red wine or adding a touch of elegance to your next dinner party, these treats will quickly become a new favorite.
Margherita Pizza Phyllo Bites
While the classic Margherita pizza is a timeless favorite, what if I revealed a secret that elevates this beloved dish to new heights? Enter: Margherita Pizza Phyllo Bites! These bite-sized morsels pack all the flavor of a traditional Margherita in a convenient, easy-to-enjoy package. But what pairs even more harmoniously with this iconic pizza? A glass of Pinot Grigio, of course! Specifically, a light-bodied Pinot Grigio that complements the subtle herbal notes and bright acidity of the pizza.
The wine’s floral and slightly tangy flavors meld seamlessly with the aromatic essence of the Margherita, creating a match made in culinary heaven.
Antipasto Kabobs
Imagine whipping up a plate of Antipasto Kabobs that’s so effortless, you’ll feel like a culinary pro! All you need is a mix of cheeses, some colorful veggies, and toothpicks. Begin by threading cherry tomatoes, followed by cheese tortellini, mozzarella balls infused with the bold flavors of Italian seasoning, basil, and juicy cold meat. Top it off with a pungent kalamata olive or a briny green olive for added depth.
This tasty treat is essentially an antipasto platter in snackable form – perfect for grabbing and going!
Crispy Baked Cheesy Salami Appetizer Bites
Indulge in the irresistible delight of crispy, cheesy bites, perfect for any appetizer spread or social gathering. These sweet and tangy morsels are sure to impress your guests with their harmonious blend of flavors. The star of the show is a succulent salami cup filled with pepper jelly, fragrant basil, and melted cheese, topped with a crunchy bagel toast crouton. The outcome? A bite so addictively delicious that you’ll be compelled to recreate it time and again.
Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Dip
Get ready to impress your guests with the ultimate Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Dip! This mouthwatering creation is a masterclass in flavor and texture, featuring succulent shrimp scampi blended with an abundance of creamy cheeses. The result is a rich, velvety dip that’s sure to be the star of your next gathering. Serve it warm alongside herbed crostini, crunchy bagel chips, torn bread, or crackers for a match made in heaven.
Meatball Poppers With Marinara Sauce
Wowing your guests with an impressive culinary display is easily achievable by serving Meatball Poppers with Marinara Sauce. This mouthwatering combination of savory, juicy meatballs, velvety marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese is sure to leave a lasting impression. To elevate the experience further, I recommend pairing these bite-sized treats with bold, dry, and fruity red wines. Specifically, Cabernet Sauvignon, Côtes du Rhone, or Zinfandel are excellent choices.
A dry red wine brings out the best in this dish, offering a depth of flavor that will leave your guests in awe.
Creamy Prosciutto Cracker
Elevate your gatherings with the simplicity and sophistication of Creamy Prosciutto Cracker. This show-stopping appetizer requires mere minutes to prepare, yet exudes refinement. The harmonious union of crispy crackers, rich cream cheese infused with savory seasonings, delicate curls of smoky prosciutto, and a touch of sweetness from honey, all perfectly balanced by the freshness of parsley, makes for an irresistible combination.
Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party or a casual afternoon soiree, this indulgent treat is sure to delight your guests.
Spicy Pork Tenderloin Crostini With Lime Crema
Indulge in the flavors of the Southwest with our show-stopping Spicy Pork Tenderloin Crostini. This bold and exciting appetizer is sure to impress your guests whether you’re entertaining or simply cheering on your favorite team. The combination of juicy, meaty pork tenderloin slices paired with a tangy lime crema on toasted French bread is a match made in heaven.
Dark Chocolate Seasalt Almonds
Indulge in the rich flavors of Dark Chocolate Seasalt Almonds as the perfect accompaniment to a glass of full-bodied red wine. These savory treats offer a delightful combination of bitter, nutty, and salty notes that complement the bold characteristics of a warm climate Merlot. The fruity flavors of this wine style beautifully balance the dark chocolate’s depth without accentuating its bitterness.
Experience the harmony of big flavors by pairing these indulgent almonds with a glass of decadent Merlot.
Mahon-Menorca Pinwheels
Reinventing the appetizer game, Mahon-Menorca Pinwheels with fig jam and serrano ham presents an unexpected harmony of flavors. The smoky, salty essence of the ham is beautifully tempered by the subtle sweetness of the fig jam, creating a delightful contrast that will redefine your notion of a first course. But what truly sets this dish apart is its textural allure: the crispy, buttery pastry shell provides a satisfying crunch on the outside, while remaining soft and inviting on the inside.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these delectable pinwheels are sure to start your meal off on the right note.
French Onion Fillo Bites
Indulge in the unparalleled flavor combination of these French Onion Fillo Bites. The onion filling, carefully caramelized to bring out its natural sweetness and savory notes, forms the foundation for a truly irresistible snack. As you top it with sharp cheese, the result is an ooey-gooey, melty delight that pairs exquisitely with a glass of rich red wine, making them the perfect accompaniment to any social gathering or casual evening in.
Beef Steak Sushi With Teriyaki Sauce
Savvy foodies seeking to combine two beloved dishes into one mouthwatering creation will find joy in this recipe. By cooking tender beef slices with teriyaki sauce, you’ll infuse your dish with a savory and umami flavor profile that harmonizes beautifully with an oak-aged Mendoza Malbec. As the sauce mingles with the wine, it will subtly tame the tannins, allowing the rich fruit and spice notes to take center stage.
Mini Cheeseburgers
Mini cheeseburgers bring a delightful touch to your holiday party spread. Their compact size makes them an ideal choice for red wine-paired appetizers, whether enjoyed during a happy hour or a social gathering with friends. The beef patty is grilled to succulent perfection, ensuring each bite is a flavorful experience that will leave you wanting more.
Peking Duck With Mandarin Pancakes
A delectable culinary experience awaits when indulging in Peking Duck with Mandarin Pancakes. This gastronomic masterpiece is a must-try for anyone who savors the rich flavor of duck. The dish’s crowning glory is the artful presentation of thin, crispy shavings of duck skin and meat, carefully carved to perfection and served alongside fluffy Mandarin pancakes. To elevate the experience, condiments like sweet and savory sauces and an assortment of vegetables are thoughtfully provided.
Bacon Mushroom Risotto Bites
Risotto, the ultimate comfort food, just got a whole lot cozier. Imagine taking your classic risotto recipe and transforming it into bite-sized morsels of creamy, savory goodness. That’s exactly what you can do by adding smoky bacon and earthy mushrooms to the mix. The result is a mouthwatering treat that pairs perfectly with full-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo.
By turning your risotto into little bundles of joy, you’ll be able to savor each creamy, umami-packed bite all on its own – no need for utensils or plates necessary. It’s the perfect solution for a quick snack or easy dinner that’s sure to hit the spot.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin Lollipops
Pork tenderloin’s rich flavor can be fully appreciated by grilling it on skewers, eliminating the hassle of dealing with bones. This approach allows you to savor all the roasted meat flavors without the mess. What takes it to the next level is dipping the lollipop in a savory soy-ginger sauce. The combination is truly impressive.
Peppered Ribeye Sliders With Red Onion Jam
Elevate your steakhouse experience by transforming your go-to appetizer into a mouthwatering treat. Our Peppered Ribeye Sliders with Red Onion Jam recipe is a game-changer, whether you’re hosting an evening out with friends or a family night in. These bite-sized morsels deliver on flavor, boasting juicy, tender textures and a subtle sweetness that complements the bold taste of red wine perfectly.
Seared Pepper Beef Carpaccio
Savoring the tender and succulent Pepper Beef Carpaccio, it’s clear that the chef has mastered the art of searing. The beef is perfectly cooked, its natural flavors enhanced by the subtle peppery notes. Paired with peppery arugula and salty parmesan, each bite is a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. What may surprise you is the mildness of the beef, making it an excellent canvas for a variety of wine pairings.
For this dish, we recommend a light red such as Rosé or Pinot Noir, or a medium to full-bodied red like Grenache or Gamay, which will complement its delicate flavor without overpowering it.
Lamb Chop Bruschetta
Step into your own Mediterranean oasis as the first bite transports you to a cozy restaurant. The harmonious union of tender lamb, rich hummus, and tangy cranberries creates a match made in heaven, with the sweetness of orange perfectly complementing the meat’s savory flavor. What’s more, you’ll be thrilled at how effortlessly this dish can be prepared at home, yielding a taste that far surpasses anything you might order.
Prosciutto Wrapped Stuffed Dates
Indulge in the ultimate sweet and savory delight – a twist on traditional dates that will leave your taste buds singing. These aren’t your ordinary dates, as they’re packed with a luscious blend of goat cheese, mascarpone, and basil that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. But that’s not all – these delectable morsels are then wrapped in crispy prosciutto and finished with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and a pinch of freshly cracked pepper.
The result is a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new. It’s an experience that will leave you wanting more, so be prepared to devour these Prosciutto Wrapped Stuffed Dates in one sitting – your taste buds won’t regret it!
Baked Brie With Figs, Walnuts, & Honey
The harmonious union of baked Brie, figs, walnuts, and honey creates a match made in heaven. The sweetness of honey is beautifully complemented by the fruity essence of figs, while the earthy undertones of brie are elevated by the nutty flavor of walnuts. As for pairing, Pinot Noir proves to be an excellent choice, as its subtle acidity and lightness won’t overpower the distinct flavors of the baked Brie, allowing each component to shine in perfect balance.
Steak Bites With Chimichurri Dipping Sauce
While these steak bites are undoubtedly packed with flavor, they’re even more enjoyable when savored with a glass of rich, full-bodied red wine. The bold, savory taste of the steak is beautifully balanced by the bright, herbaceous notes of the chimichurri sauce, which is elevated by the pungency of garlic. For this reason, it’s best to pair these bites with a fruity red wine like Malbec, whose sweet and tart flavors complement the dish nicely.
However, Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon also make excellent pairing options, as their subtle tannins and dark fruit flavors enhance the overall dining experience.
Blue Cheese Fig Flatbread With Balsamic Sauce
Combining three favorite things – cheese, red wine, and bread – seems like a match made in heaven. And that’s exactly what this Blue Cheese Fig Flatbread with Balsamic Sauce achieves. This exquisite appetizer is perfect for showcasing your culinary skills to friends and family. The flatbread itself is delightfully soft and chewy, while the figs and balsamic sauce add a satisfying crunch and tanginess respectively.
Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated brunch or a cozy dinner at home, this dish sets the tone perfectly – it’s a mouthwatering way to begin any meal.
The bottom line
Ultimately, the perfect pairing of red wine and appetizer comes down to personal taste. The beauty lies in the numerous options available, each catering to a unique preference. Whether it’s cheese, meats, or other savory delights, there’s a type of red wine that complements any dish you can imagine. The key is discovering what you enjoy and exploring the possibilities. This journey of discovery begins with experimentation and learning early on.
As you embark on this adventure, remember to stay open-minded and willing to try new combinations. With time and patience, you’ll develop a keen sense of what pairs well with red wine. In the end, the most important thing is finding what you love and indulging in it. And if you’re still craving more, be sure to explore the many related articles on this site for plenty of inspiration.
