When the sun is out and the air is breezy, why not bring the party outdoors? Certain occasions, whether it a birthday or a barbecue, demand an exterior party setting. Celebrating outside allows guests ample room to socialize while still allowing younger guests to run around and play.
If you’re hosting an outdoor party, you’ll want a menu to match theme. This list provides good appetizers for parties hosted outside; pick and choose your favorites for the ultimate celebration.
Barbecue Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are the perfect combination of messy and delicious, making them good appetizers for parties that are more carefree. Chicken wings can be purchased in advanced, bought pre-made, or cooked from scratch. While any of these options will work, we’ve got a great recipe for some finger-lickin’ fun.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of chicken wings
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Combine the flour and seasonings in a shallow bowl or pie tin. Coat the chicken wings in the flour and seasoning mixture and set aside.
- In a dutch oven, deep pot, or fryer, heat the oil until it reaches 350 degrees. Toss the wings in the flour a second time and shake off any extra flour.
- Working in batches, fry the wings until golden brown, or for about 8 minutes. Using a spider strainer or slotted spoon, remove the wings and place on a tray lined with paper towels to drain. Repeat until all of the wings have been fried and place the wings in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the BBQ sauce and vinegar to a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until bubbles form, then remove from heat. Pour the sauce over the wings and stir to coat.
Homemade Hummus and Veggies
If you’re throwing a party outdoors, you’re likely enjoying some good weather. To match the sunny atmosphere, be sure to have something a little lighter on the menu. Some of your guests will love the healthy treat, and it will help prevent people from feeling too lethargic. With garlic and lemon juice, this homemade hummus packs great, fresh flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp tahini
- ½ tsp of cumin juice
- ½ tsp of salt
- ½ tsp of paprika
Directions
- Pour the chickpeas, lemon, salt, cumin, paprika, and 2 tbsp of olive oil into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is smooth. Test for taste and add more seasoning, if desired. For a creamier texture, add a bit of water or extra olive oil.
- Arrange the hummus in a bowl or on a platter. Serve with fresh veggies and pita chips.
Cowboy Caviar (AKA Chips and Salsa)
Nothing says fresh like a big bowl of salsa. This recipe is bright, outdoorsy, and full of flavor. The combination of various colors and textures make it one of our good appetizers for parties hosted outdoors. Grab some beer, pour a bag of corn chips, and enjoy the sunny weather with this addicting dip.
Ingredients
- 2 (15oz.) cans of black-eyed peas
- 1 (15oz.) can of black beans
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- 5 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Juice of one lemon
- Juice of one lime
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Directions
- Add all of the ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. Chill for at least one hour, though two to three is preferred, as this allows the flavors to marinate. Taste and adjust seasoning, as desired.
- Serve with chips, pita chips, or use to top grilled meats and salads.
Regardless of the occasion, these fresh recipes will add just the right amount of flavor to your outdoor celebration.
