The Best Appetizer Ideas That Are Always In Season
We’re passionate about all the wonderful things our sun-kissed state has to offer. But we have a real soft spot for our produce! California grows more than 400 different commodities, which correlates to more than a third of our country’s vegetables and two-thirds of the fruits and nuts. It’s probably no surprise that we have some incredible recipes to share, but we think the appetizer ideas below are special because they’re made with fresh, vibrant, delectable produce available year-round in the Golden State.
Green and Thriving: Delving into California’s Sustainable Agriculture
California is the leading agricultural state in the nation; that means our farmers, ranchers, and farm workers work 24/7, 365 days a year to provide food, fiber, and foliage for the world! Click on any of the links and images below to learn more about the bounty of the Golden State.
- Always in season: Here’s what’s available year-round in California!
- California Grows More of These Crops Than Any Other State!
- 19 Crops That Are Grown Only in California!
Appetizer Ideas To Enjoy Year-Round
The California Grown team has gathered a collection of our favorite appetizer ideas below that are perfect for any time of the year. The seasons blend seamlessly in these recipes, allowing you to enjoy the freshest ingredients in delicious new ways whether it’s the height of summer or the depths of winter.
Baked Brie with Olive Tapenade
Starting with a bang, California Ripe Olives Baked Brie with Olive Tapenade is a real crowd-pleaser.
This recipe combines the creamy decadence of brie with the robust flavors of olive tapenade, made from olives that thrive in California’s climate.
This elegant yet easy-to-prepare appetizer idea pairs perfectly with crisp crackers or artisan bread.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Raisin Rosemary Crackers
Speaking of crackers, why not make your own? These Rosemary Raisin Crackers from California Raisins are homemade and infused with the flavors of California-grown raisins and fragrant rosemary.
These crackers are a perfect pairing for cheeses and dips, adding a rustic charm to your appetizer spread.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Smoky Mushroom and Oaxaca Quesadillas
These Smoky Mushroom and Oaxaca Quesadillas from Real California Milk offer a fusion of flavors. Featuring succulent mushrooms and melted Oaxaca cheese, these quesadillas are a testament to California’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. They’re smoky, cheesy, and irresistible.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Mini Peppers with Jalapeno Pepper Jack and Olives
For a pop of color and flavor, try our Mini Peppers with Jalapeno Pepper Jack and Olives. This dish combines sweet mini peppers with the spicy kick of jalapeno pepper jack cheese and the briny taste of olives. It’s a vibrant, bite-sized treat that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Cheese and Olive Stuffed Mushroom Caps
Mushrooms are a versatile and beloved ingredient in Californian cuisine. Our Cheese and Olive Stuffed Mushroom Caps are a testament to this love, offering a mouthful of umami-rich flavors complemented by the creaminess of cheese in every bite. They’re a sophisticated yet simple addition to your appetizer table.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of Bacon-Wrapped Dates. This appetizer marries the natural sweetness of dates with the savory, smoky flavor of bacon – a combination that’s hard to resist and always in season in California.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Oven-Roasted Rosemary Olives
Simple yet flavorful, these Oven-Roasted Rosemary Olives from This Mess is Ours are a testament to the versatility of olives. Roasted with aromatic rosemary, these olives are a great addition to any appetizer spread, bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Roasted Shrimp with Lemon and Garlic
Seafood lovers, rejoice! G Free Foodie’s Garlic and Lemon Roasted Shrimp is a light and zesty appetizer, perfect for California’s coastal vibe. The shrimp are roasted with garlic and lemon, offering a fresh and flavorful start to any meal.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Green Deviled Eggs and Ham
Revamp a classic with G Free Foodie’s Green Deviled Eggs and Ham. This version adds a California twist with fresh herbs and a touch of avocado, making them a delicious and visually stunning addition to your appetizer selection.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Smashed Green Olive And Pistachio Burrata Bruschetta
No appetizer list is complete without Bruschetta, and this recipe from Salt and Wind uses ripe olives to add a unique twist. This bruschetta is a true rcelebration of California’s year-round produce.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Prosciutto Wrapped Prunes
For a touch of elegance, try G Free Foodie’s Prosciutto Wrapped Prunes appetizer. The sweetness of prunes pairs beautifully with the salty prosciutto, creating a sophisticated and delicious bite-sized treat.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Queso Fundido with Shiitake Mushrooms and Anaheim Chiles
Queso Fundido is a warm, melty cheese dish that’s a surefire hit. Our version incorporates shiitake mushrooms and Anaheim chiles, highlighting California’s love for bold flavors and fresh produce.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Loaded Sweetpotato Skins
Sweetpotatoes are a versatile and nutritious staple in California. This appetizer idea from California Sweetpotatoes is packed with flavor and perfect for sharing, making them an ideal appetizer for any gathering.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Sweetpotato Toast Bites with Figs, Blue Cheese, Flaked Salt, and Honey
Continuing our love of sweetpotatoes, these Sweet Potato Toast Bites are a unique and delightful appetizer idea. These bites are a memorable treat topped with figs, blue cheese, and a drizzle of honey.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
California Figs in a Blanket
A playful take on a classic appetizer idea, California Figs in a Blanket wraps sweet figs in pastry, offering a sweet and savory experience that’s uniquely Californian.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
California Fig, Gorgonzola, and Pecan Terrine
For those who love bold flavors, this appetizer idea from California Figs is a must-try. This dish combines the sweetness of figs with the sharpness of gorgonzola and the crunch of pecans, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
Wild Rice Cakes with Smoked Mozzarella and Pecans
Lastly, these Wild Rice Cakes from Williams Sonoma are topped with smoked mozzarella and pecans, which makes them a hearty and satisfying appetizer idea any time of the year. They embody the health-conscious and flavor-rich spirit of California cuisine.
Click here for this easy, always-in-season appetizer idea.
This collection of appetizer ideas showcases the best of California’s year-round bounty. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these dishes will surely become go-to’s in your kitchen.