Appetizers are popular all over the world. In fact, in some countries appetizers can make up a style of eating. What this means, of course is that we can take appetizer recipes from all over the world, and enjoy them all. You can even combine cuisines and make fusion appetizers. It is easy to use your imagination when you make appetizers.

Dim sum is the form appetizers take in China. Dim sum is the name for a wide range of small dishes. When you order dim sum, you choose dishes from a cart that is pushed around by the wait staff. Some people offer dim sum as appetizers at their parties. You could treat sushi the same way and offer it as appetizers. Each piece of Japanese sushi is only a bite or two. You can also use Indian satay as an appetizer. Other Indian appetizers may be made from fish, chicken or spicy vegetables.

Italian appetizers fall under the heading of antipasto. This means “before the meal.” Antipasto or antipasti usually consists of cheeses, dried meats, salads or sun dried tomatoes. You can also find bread dipped in olive oil or olives on the table before an Italian meal.

In Spain, appetizers are served almost everywhere. Known as tapas, these delicious appetizers are made of olives, cheeses, cured meats and many other delicious ingredients. Restaurants known as tapas bars are everywhere. The story goes that King Alfonso X invented tapas after he had to nibble food while drinking wine between meals when he was convalescing. He decreed afterward that all establishments serving wine must also serve food to prevent drunkenness.

Appetizers have many names in different countries. The UK calls them starters. France calls them canaps, amuse-bouche, or hors d’oeuvres. In Sweden, appetizers make up the smorgasbord. You may find appetizers made of salmon, herring or eel as well as butter, cheese and bread. The tradition in Sweden is to eat cold foods, and then alternate with hot foods until the meal is done.

In Greece and the Middle East, appetizers are known as “meze.” They like deep fried foods served with creamy dips that are based on yogurt. In South and Central America, seafood is one of the choice ingredients. Shrimp is one of the most popular choices for appetizers. Tortillas are often served with dips. In the Caribbean, you can often find coconut chips as appetizers.

When you are choosing from all the different recipes from around the world, you can find some great party food appetizers that everyone will love. Do not spend all your time in the kitchen when you have a party… use appetizers! They can be served before a meal or be the only source of food at a party.

Using recipes from many different cuisines allows you to use your favorite ingredients for your appetizers. You will find that preparation is practically stress free and you can enjoy your own party. Your guests will love trying foods from all over the world one bite at a time.

If you want to learn some fancy appetizer recipes you can study the works of Julia Child or you can simply look online. Take your time when you are learning. Once you know how to do the recipes you like, you can whip them out quickly without any stress at all.