18 Irresistible Happy Hour Bites

By Jenn Segal

Summer is all about cool cocktails and easy eats on the back patio. From crab cakes to bruschetta, these delicious happy hour recipes will have you counting down the minutes to 5 PM.

Maryland Crab Cakes with Quick Tartar Sauce

A Maryland staple, these crab cakes are made from fresh lump crab meat and just enough filler to bind the crabmeat together.
Salsa (Restaurant-Style)

Whip up a restaurant-style, chip-worthy salsa in just 10 minutes using canned tomatoes and a blender.
L’Auberge Chez François Herbed Cottage Cheese Spread

This blend of cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic and fresh herbs makes an irresistible spread.
Salsa Verde

Bursting with tanginess, smokiness, and a hint of fiery heat, this salsa verde elevates everything it touches, from crunchy chips to sizzling fajitas and beyond.
Union Square Cafe Bar Nuts

Once you start snacking, there’s no stopping: these rosemary-infused nuts from one of New York’s most beloved restaurants are seriously delicious!
Pimento Cheese

Pimento cheese is a tangy and creamy cheese spread that’s often referred to as the pâté of the South. It’s wonderful on crackers, crudités, sandwiches, or even burgers.
Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a refreshing and good-for-you yogurt and cucumber dip. Serve it with pita, grilled meats, gyros, or just eat it with a spoon!
Bruschetta

In this summery bruschetta, briny olives and a splash of balsamic vinegar liven up the classic tomato and basil topping.
Baba Ganoush

Baba ganoush is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, garlic and spices.
Guacamole

Learn to make the ultimate chip-worthy guacamole, rivaling the irresistibly scoopable guac made tableside at the best Mexican restaurants.
Broiled Feta with Garlicky Tomatoes & Capers

Broiled feta with burst cherry tomatoes and capers makes a surprisingly addictive and flavorful spread. Perfect for summer!
Hummus

Say farewell to mediocre store-bought hummus—my hummus recipe guarantees a creamy, whipped, flavor-packed spread, ideal for scooping with pita or as a standout on any Middle Eastern table.
Grilled Pesto Shrimp

Whether you serve this grilled shrimp for dinner or as an appetizer, it disappears in a flash. Make extra!
Zucchini Fritters with Feta and Dill

These crispy zucchini fritters make a wonderful starter or side dish, and they’re a delicious way to use up your summer zucchini.
Whipped Feta Dip

Similar to htipiti, the salty and tangy Mediterranean mezze spread, this feta dip is fabulous with toasted pita or veggies.
Epic Hummus Board

Get ready for ‘wows’ at your next party with this gorgeous and good-for-you hummus board with creamy hummus, fresh veggies, crispy chickpeas, and a garlicky yogurt sauce.
Blistered Shishito Peppers (Broiler or Stovetop Method)

Whether you sizzle them in a skillet or give them a quick char under the broiler, blistered shishito peppers make a fun and tasty snack. Only one in ten is spicy, so you never know when you’ll encounter the spicy one in the bunch, making each bite a fun surprise!
Beef Empanadas

Crispy, cheesy beef empanadas: perfect for a snack or a meal, and loved by both kids and grown-ups alike!