Everyone loves appetizers and it's no wonder: the tasty tidbits offer a great prelude to a meal or stand alone as a party snack. Appetizers are also a simple delight that you can prepare easily and bring to a get-together with friends.

There are many easy appetizer recipes to choose from. Some involve more assembly than cooking, while others may use an oven or stove to prepare ingredients. Here are some great basics to consider when you need a few quick ideas:

• Dips. Spinach dip, onion dip and ranch dip are all favorite party dips and are very easy to make. All you need is some sour cream and/or cream cheese and a packet of flavoring. Stir them together, chill and serve with chips or vegetables.
• Cocktail franks. These delicious "mini dogs" can be served with a biscuit wrapping or on their own. Cook the little hot dogs and biscuits and wrap, or just serve plain with toothpicks and dipping sauce.
• Nachos. Simple and delicious, nachos are a great appetizer that is easy to make. Combine chips, seasoned ground beef and cheese for a base and then add toppings such as lettuce, peppers, tomatoes and sour cream.
• Bruschetta. This great appetizer looks fancy but is actually quite easy to make. Slice some Italian or French bread and toast, then add toppings such as olive oil, basil, chopped tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
• Guacamole. This time-tested favorite is a staple appetizer. Simply combine avocado with seasonings such as fresh pepper, salt, lime juice, onion and jalapeno and serve with toasted corn chips.

There are endless amounts of appetizer recipes out there, but these are some popular ones that are very easy to make. Keep an eye out for different variations on the recipes above and you will soon have a wide range from which to choose if you need to whip something up in a hurry.

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Easy Recipes