Appetizers are finger foods usually served prior to a meal, or in between mealtimes, and are also called hors d’oeuvres, antipasti, or starters, and may range from the very simple to the very complex, depending on the occasion and the time devoted to making them. They’re a common accompaniment to aperitifs, cocktails served prior to a meal.

At dinners, banquets and the like, appetizers may be served prior to a meal. This is especially common at weddings, when it takes time for the wedding party and guests to get to a reception after the marriage has taken place.

Appetizers may be served at long parties that occur after a regular meal time. A mid-afternoon party where there is no intent to serve dinner, or an evening party that occurs after dinner may feature appetizers so that guests can have the opportunity to snack. They’re an especially good idea when guests are consuming alcohol, since they help to cut down on alcohol absorption. Additionally, many restaurants feature a range of appetizers that are ordered just prior to a meal as a first course.

A simple plate of cheese and crackers, chopped vegetables (called crudités) served with dip, or sliced or small fruits can all be considered appetizers. Other popular appetizers include canapés, finger sandwiches, crab cakes or crab puffs, small sausages that can be eaten in a bite or two, and any type of dumplings such as dim sum. The goal is to make the food easy to handle with just a napkin, and easy to eat in one to two bites. This way guests can continue to visit, dance, chat or mingle without needing to be encumbered by plates.

When you’re deciding to serve appetizers, think about foods that will go well together, but vary in flavor and taste appeal. For example, perhaps you would like to serve grilled jumbo shrimp. This is a great choice, but some guests may be allergic to seafood or shellfish. In addition to the shrimp, consider other appetizers such as stuffed mushroom caps, a nice cheese plate, and fruits and vegetables in easily handled sizes.

Because appetizers are frequently served at large parties, try to keep foods to which people have common allergies either easily recognizable or off the menu. If you choose to serve a shellfish appetizer, don’t disguise it, and make sure the shellfish doesn’t come into contact with other appetizers you are serving. Avoid common allergens like peanuts, too, and be certain if you do serve these, to keep them in a separate bowl or serving dish.

It is appropriate to serve both hot and cold appetizers, but perfectly fine to serve all cold or all hot dishes. If you are planning a long party, or guests have a long time to wait before eating a meal, do consider that hot food tends to be more satisfying and can stave off hunger pains. Especially if guests are tripping the light fantastic for several hours, this can provoke a great deal of hunger, best satisfied by plenty of appetizers.

Whatever you plan to serve, know that there are virtually thousands of appetizers you can choose from. There are cookbooks devoted to appetizers, and you’ll find numerous recipes online. Consider imaginative food you haven’t seen before to delight your guests with new flavors and appetizer ideas.