5 Hors D'oeuvres that will Wow your Guests

Few foods are as versatile as the hors d’oeuvre; these dishes can fit around the needs of an event like no other. Whether it’s an issue of time or space, these delectable finger foods have you covered. It’s no accident that the name for this style of food translates to ‘outside the work,’ highlighting the way they easily fit around the logistics of other dishes.

Hors d’oeuvres come in both hot and cold varieties, rarely require silverware or individual plates, and can be eaten standing, walking, or sitting. Being so good at adapting to almost any event, it’s no wonder these little treats are such a hit. Below are some of our favorite hors d’oeuvres that we just know you and your guests will love.

BRIE BITES - onion marmalade, granny smith apple, herbed crostini

BRIE BITES - onion marmalade, granny smith apple, herbed crostini

These cousins of the bruschetta are an ideal dish to offer your guests in any season. The herbed crostini provide a flavorful, crunchy base, while the onion marmalade infuses it with a sweet but mild taste. Granny Smith apples top the flavors off with a subtle weaving of tart and sweet. Light and airy, yet full of complexity, this dish is a natural crowd pleaser.

CAPRESE BITES - cherry tomato, fresh mozzarella, balsamic reduction, pesto

CAPRESE BITES - cherry tomato, fresh mozzarella, balsamic reduction, pesto

With tastes of spring and summer, this little hors d’oeuvre is sure to amaze. The cherry tomatoes, with their high sugar and low acidity, create a smooth juicy sweetness that is at the heart of this dish. When you bite into this treat, you’ll notice the fresh mozzarella blending a savory richness into the sugariness of the tomatoes. The Caprese Bites are topped with a dab of pesto and a light glazing of balsamic reduction, creating an incredible blend of earthy pepper and tart sweetness.

SALMON LOX ON EVERYTHING BAGEL CRISP - chive cream cheese

SALMON LOX ON EVERYTHING BAGEL CRISP - chive cream cheese

Be prepared to see happy faces when you serve these delicious crisps. The overall experience is one of rich tenderness, but the crisp provides a subtle complexity of taste and a crunchy texture to close each bite with. While the salmon provides its renowned buttery richness and smooth feel, the chive cream cheese heightens this richness and adds a burst of flavor.

SPICED BEEF EMPANADA - chimichurri, cotija

SPICED BEEF EMPANADA - chimichurri, cotija

Delicately cooked beef rests at the center of this fried pastry. A gentle spread of chimichurri and cotija crown this dish with a subtle yet potent flavor that speaks of Hispanic herbs and chilis. Both elegant and practical, this hors d’ouvre is a favorite of those looking to provide equal parts sustenance and beauty.   

TRUFFLE DEVILED EGG - parmesan, smoked sea salt

TRUFFLE DEVILED EGG - parmesan, smoked sea salt

The strong flavor of deviled eggs is softened in this mouth-watering hors d’oeuvre by the smoothness of truffle oil, yet accentuated by the sharp and subtly smoky taste of smoked sea salt. If you and your guests are interested in classics but still want to bring something new to the table, this dish is a perfect blend of both worlds.  

We’d love to help you create the perfect menu for your next event! Learn more about our menu and offerings here.

Evan Wei-Haas