When you’re making plans for your big day, keep in mind that your guests come for two main reasons – the happy couple and the food. After all – eating is one of life’s greatest pleasures! And, although your main course will steal the show, you want your apps during cocktail hour to wow your guests and set the culinary tone off on a high note. So if you’re looking to please them with some wonderful appetizers for your summer wedding, here are a few favourite creative ideas to consider. Depending on your theme and level of elegance, some or all of these may be suitable choices.
Fried Mac & Cheese Lollipops
Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Indulging in pasta that’s smothered in gooey, cheesy goodness is what these special occasions are all about! By creating little mac and cheese lollipops, you can make them even more delectable and suitable for your summer wedding.
Gazpacho Soup Shots
Gazpacho is cold, blended vegetable soup that originated in Spain. If you’re looking for something refreshing on a hot day, this will do it. It isn’t convenient to sit down with a bowl of soup while people are walking around and talking, however, so serve it in shot glasses instead. It looks classier and, because it’s easier to hold and transport, there’s less chance of something spilling. It doesn’t matter if you’re having a big or small wedding, or how fancy it is – gazpacho always fits the tone.
Mini Corn Dogs & Beer
Take your guests by surprise with this satisfying pairing. Mini corn dogs on a stick served with a dollop of ballpark mustard is a throwback that almost everyone will surely love. You can serve this on a small white plate with a shot glass of ice-cold refreshing beer to finish it off. It’s a delicious combination that is guaranteed to make your guests pleasantly surprised.
Mini-Pretzels
We aren’t talking about the little hard pretzels that come in a bag from the grocery store. We’re talking real pretzels. Soft, doughy pretzels with sea salt sprinkled on them, that you dip in mustard. It’s a casual appetizer that you can eat while carrying on a conversation and having a beer, which makes it an ideal summer wedding treat.
Fish & Chip Cones
Crispy pieces of battered haddock with fresh-cut fries are another excellent appetizer to serve during your cocktail hour. To put a creative twist on this classic dish, stick with the miniature theme and serve these up in cute little newspaper cones.
Caprese Garlic Bread
Up your garlic bread game with a fresh take on it. This upgraded version has melted mozzarella, tomato, fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and a little bit of olive oil. Pairing this with white or pink wine will leave your guests clamouring for more. It’s just a little touch of luxury at your fingertips.
Tacos
Tacos are the perfect unexpected appetizer for your summer wedding because they’re so versatile. You can top them with just about anything you choose, making them a great choice for satisfying dietary needs of all kinds. Set up a make-your-own-taco station to make it a fun activity and a filling meal at the same time!
Fried Green Tomatoes
The idea of eating a tomato that hasn’t ripened on the vine might seem bizarre to some, but it’s the main ingredient of a very popular southern dish called ‘fried green tomatoes’, and they’re rave-worthy. Dipped in egg and breadcrumbs and then fried, it’s easy to make and even easier to eat. We doubt you’ll want to stop at just one!
Mini Lobster Rolls
They’re rich, creamy, fresh, and delicious. Lobster rolls are another comfort food staple that’s always a winner for any special summertime occasion.
Bacon Apple Jalapeno Poppers
Sweet, salty and spicy with a little bit of cheese, this ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s healthier than your traditional fried jalapeno poppers. Baked in the oven, the peppers are then halved. Each half is filled with light cream cheese, scallions and apple slices, then wrapped in bacon. They’re an absolute culinary delight.
Mashed Potato Martinis
Dress up your favorite side dish by serving up mashed potatoes in a martini glass. You can top them with scallions, bacon bits, sour cream, and whatever else you might enjoy. Your guests will undoubtedly love these!
Prosecco Grapes & Melon Chunks
Don’t let the kids near these appetizers – these are for adults only. Soaked in vodka and prosecco for at least an hour, the fruit is then covered in sugar and served either in a bowl or on skewers. They make great summer appetizers for a wedding as they’re refreshing and sweet. They’re bound to be a fan favourite.
Looking for a catering service for your wedding? At St. Elias Centre, we know that every detail matters, especially when it comes to food. That’s why we come equipped with an in-house catering service that includes an executive chef and fully trained kitchen staff. Allow us to create a dream feast for you and your guests – we tailor our services to fit your exacting culinary needs!. Explore our menus online today, or contact us to learn more about how we can help you build your dream wedding day.