Turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, and it's particularly wonderful for appetizers. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and easy snack, these turkey appetizer ideas will surely impress your guests.
1. Turkey Meatball Sliders
Start by combining 500g of ground turkey with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 beaten egg, and a mix of breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Use this mixture is to form small meatballs. Bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.
Prepare slider buns by slicing them horizontally and lightly toasting them. Spread a layer of garlic butter on both halves. To assemble, place a spoonful of creamy sauce (such as BBQ or Alfredo) on the bottom bun, top it with a meatball, add some lettuce leaves for crunch if desired, and place the top half of the bun back in place.
2. Turkey Cucumber Bites
Slice 1 large cucumber into thick rounds. Smother each round evenly with about 50g thinly sliced turkey breast. Top this with a little dollop of cream cheese mixed with chives or dill.
3. Turkey Pinwheels
Spread a layer of herbed cream cheese (about 100g) on a large flour tortilla (ideally about 25cm in diameter). Lay thinly sliced turkey (around 120g) over the cream cheese, and then sprinkle finely chopped lettuce or spinach evenly on top. Tuck in all sides and roll tightly to form a pinwheel shape.
To serve, slice the rolled tortilla into rounds about 2cm thick. Each bite-sized appetizer will reveal layers of flavor as your guests enjoy them at your gathering!
4. Turkey Stuffed Mushrooms
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove stems from about 20 large mushrooms and set aside. Finely chop the stems and mix with 100g ground turkey, 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs, 1 egg yolk, minced garlic, a sprinkle each of oregano and thyme for added flavor.
Stuff the mushroom caps generously with this mixture and bake in a greased baking dish for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve warm as part of your appetizer selection!
5. Turkey Caprese Skewers
Cut turkey breast into bite-sized pieces, about 30g each.
Thread alternating pieces of cherry tomatoes (around 2 per skewer), fresh mozzarella balls (about 60g total for 10 skewers), and the turkey onto small skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves.
These appetizer ideas are perfect for any occasion, whether you're having an intimate gathering or a large party. They can be prepared ahead of time to save you stress on the day of your event.