cold appetizer Recipes
10 delicious cold appetizer recipes from around the world
Holodets (Russian Meat Jelly)
A traditional Russian winter celebration dish, Holodets is a savory meat jelly made from slow-cooked pork and beef, infused with aromatics, and set into a firm, flavorful aspic. It's a testament to slow cooking and the natural gelatin released from the bones and connective tissues.
Kholodets (Russian Meat Jelly)
Kholodets, a savory meat jelly or aspic, is a traditional Russian delicacy often served as a centerpiece on New Year's Eve tables. It relies on the natural gelatin from slow-cooked bones and meat to set, creating a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dish.
Pâté de Campagne
A rustic and flavorful French country pâté, this pork terrine is studded with liver and fragrant herbs, making it an essential addition to any charcuterie board. Its coarse texture and rich taste are best appreciated after a proper resting period.
Terrine aux Herbes (Herbed Vegetable Terrine)
A vibrant and light French vegetable terrine, bound with eggs and fresh herbs. Perfect as a refreshing starter for a summer meal.
Filipino Embutido
A classic Filipino festive meat roll, typically enjoyed during Christmas. This steamed pork loaf is studded with hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickles, and cheese, creating a colorful and flavorful cross-section when sliced. It is traditionally served cold.
Pi Dan Dou Fu (Century Egg with Tofu)
A refreshing and elegant no-cook appetizer featuring cool silken tofu topped with the unique flavor of century eggs, a savory soy-sesame dressing, and fresh herbs. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare and showcases contrasting textures and flavors.
Zui Ji (Drunken Chicken)
A classic Shanghainese cold appetizer, this dish features tender poached chicken infused with the aromatic essence of Shaoxing wine. The chicken is gently cooked, then marinated in a generous amount of wine, resulting in a deeply flavorful and succulent dish perfect for any occasion.
Causa Limeña
Causa Limeña is an elegant and flavorful Peruvian layered potato terrine. It features a vibrant yellow potato base seasoned with lime juice and ají amarillo, layered with a creamy filling, often chicken or tuna salad, and garnished with avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and olives. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a light main course.
Ceviche Colombiano
A refreshing and vibrant Colombian ceviche, featuring tender fish or shrimp 'cooked' in lime juice and tossed with fresh vegetables and a hint of ketchup for a unique regional twist. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Lengua a la Vinagreta (Argentine Beef Tongue in Vinaigrette)
A classic Argentine cold appetizer, Lengua a la Vinagreta features tender, slow-cooked beef tongue marinated in a zesty vinaigrette. It's often served as a side dish during asados (barbecues) and is even better made a day in advance.