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    The 28 BEST French Appetizers

    Are you ready to wow your family and friends with some gourmet French Appetizers?

    With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create delicious starters that will set the tone for an amazing evening.

    From savory to sweet, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

    Discover this collection of delectable French appetizers today, and let us show you how easy it is to transform ordinary dishes into culinary masterpieces!

    french appetizers pin

    French Appetizers:

    1. Olive Tapenade

    Let’s begin this list of amazing Appetizer Recipes with a French favorite, Olive Tapenade!

    This classic appetizer is simple, quick, delicious, and addictive. The robust olives, capers, garlic, and other flavorings make it outstanding, but the star here are the briny olives.

    Serve this fantastic appetizer with crostini or crudites at your next get together. It will be the hit of the party!

    Get the Recipe


    2. Cherry Tomato Gratin

    Cherry Tomato Gratin is a colorful, rustic dish that will be the favored appetizer of your next party.

    This irresistible dish features slightly blistered cherry tomatoes with crispy cubes of a French baguette. Doused with olive oil, fresh herbs, and a light shaving of parmesan, the result is simply incredible.

    A delicious choice when you’re serving “heavy” appetizers at your next wine party.

    Get the Recipe


    3. Easy Baked Brie with Nuts and Honey

    This Baked Brie with Nuts and Honey is the ultimate show-stopper appetizer for your next special event!

    To make this gorgeous classic French appetizer, you’ll need 15 minutes of your time and a few flavorful ingredients to create this simple yet fancy dish.

    Serve it immediately after it pops out of the oven with lots of crackers, crostini, or some fruits like grapes, apples, and pears.

    Enjoy!

    Get the Recipe


    4. Cherry Tomato Confit (Under 30 Minutes)

    Make the most of the summer’s bounty by cooking up this Cherry Tomato Confit.

    For this fabulous dish you’ll need bunches of cherry tomatoes, lots of olive oil, a handful of garlic cloves, and a few herbs. And in a mere 30 minutes of your time, this amazing French appetizer will be ready to serve!

    This cherry confit can be eaten in many different ways and all the delectable ideas are included in this amazing recipe.

    Get the Recipe


    5. Ratatouille

    Ratatouille is a classic Provencal dish that is simple, rustic, and full of hearty Mediterranean flavors.

    This recipe will make good use of your garden’s summer bounty. Veggies like squash, eggplant, tomatoes, and bell peppers go into the pot and make the best vegetarian appetizer.

    It’s super quick and easy to make and delicious served with slices of crispy French bread.

    Get the Recipe


    6. French-Style Zucchini Fritters 

    This summer, make use of your garden’s zucchini by creating these French-Style Zucchini Fritters at home.

    To whip up this popular snack, you need lots of zucchini, onion, garlic, and Gruyère cheese. Just follow the tips to make it perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

    Pair this healthy appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce and a good glass of wine!

    Get the Recipe @ pardonyourfrench


    7. Asparagus Mimosa

    Asparagus Mimosa, a classic French dish, is a perfect appetizer for springtime!

    This tempting and tangy dish of asparagus is served with a light vinaigrette dressing and hard-boiled eggs. It’s super quick and easy to make and needs less than 10 minutes from start to finish.

    A perfect appetizer for an Easter dinner or a special Sunday meal.

    Get the Recipe @ larderlove


    8. Salmon Rillettes

    Create this restaurant-worthy gourmet dish, Salmon Rillettes, at home and you will become a huge fan of this French classic.

    A delicious blend of lightly poached fresh salmon, diced smoked salmon, mayo, and seasoning with sliced chives makes this one divine dish.

    Serve this French dish as an appetizer with toasted baguette slices and enjoy!

    Get the Recipe @ mission-food


    9. French Cheese Puffs

    Introduce these French Cheese Puffs as pre-dinner nibbles and watch everyone devour these super addictive puffs!

    This fantastic appetizer is absolutely easy to make and is perfectly crusty on the outside and soft and hollow inside. And they taste very, very cheesy. Yum!

    Just follow the recipe and you can replicate this ultimate French appetizer right at home. Enjoy.

    Get the Recipe @ recipetineats


    10. Canapés

    Canapés are an excellent choice to impress your guests, as they look gorgeous and taste amazing. And, they are absolutely easy to make and perfect when you need a spur of the moment appetizer.

    This easy appetizer highlights fresh ingredients and is super customizable, so you can easily make it your own.

    So, invite the neighbors over, open a couple of bottles of wine and whip up this French favorite.

    Get the Recipe @ preppykitchen


    11. Roasted Red Pepper Dip from Provence (Poivronade)

    Roasted Red Pepper Dip from Provence, Poivronade, is a classic appetizer from the south of France.

    This elegant dip features blistered roasted bell peppers blended with feta, parmesan, pine nuts and fresh basil leaves.

    Serve as a spread on toast or as a dip with your favorite crackers and enjoy with wine and good conversation.

    Get the Recipe @ pardonyourfrench


    12. French Potato Salad

    If you’re looking for a non-mayo version of potato salad, then this super delicious French Potato Salad is just for you!

    This simple, quick and mayo-free salad is made with potatoes tossed with an easy lemon dressing and lots of fresh herbs. It ‘s perfect for picnics, cook-outs and also as a heavy appetizer for potluck wine parties.

    Enjoy!

    Get the Recipe @ gimmesomeoven


    13. Leeks in Vinaigrette

    Leeks in Vinaigrette is a glorious French starter dish that lets you experience the true flavors of France with this super easy recipe.

    Start this delicious dish by pre-cooking the leeks. Next, let them cool down and simply serve them with a super flavorful French vinaigrette, minced shallots and chives. That’s it, your classic French veggie starter/ appetizer is ready to serve.

    It’s simple, yet very classy!

    Get the Recipe @ myparisiankitchen


    14. Coquilles St. Jacques

    Get ready to explore new flavors from France, with this classic dish, Coquilles St. Jacques!

    It highlights delicate scallops, shrimp, and mushrooms in a rich gruyere and white wine sauce that is topped with breadcrumbs and then broiled to golden perfection.

    Serve in small individual dishes for a gourmet appetizer with slices of French bread

    Get the Recipe @ valerieskeepers


    15. Petit Croque Monsieur

    Looking for a new appetizer? Then look no further, as this French classic, Petit Croque Monsieur, will be your new favorite!

    This finger food is a bite-size pasty that is topped with creamy béchamel sauce and crispy diced ham. It’s as simple as cutting, assembling, baking, and serving. Just follow the simple recipe and enjoy at your next get together.

    Get the Recipe @ thestarvingchefblog


    16. Swiss Chard Pancakes (Farçous)

    Swiss Chard Pancakes, from the Aveyron region of France, are known as Farçous. Popular at markets and street fairs, they make a great starter, appetizer or a simple meal alongside a salad.

    Though there are many recipes for them, this simple recipe uses only Swiss chard, a few parsley sprigs, and other easy ingredients. They are perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy and delicious on the inside.

    Serve with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dip for a tantalizing appetizer.

    Get the Recipe @ pardonyourfrench


    17. Sardine Rillettes 

    Need a fancy appetizer for your unexpected company? Then this Sardine Rillettes is a delicious Mediterranean nibble that everyone is going to remember!

    Popular in France, Sardine Rillettes are super easy to make using panty staples and takes literally 10 minutes of your time. Serve this must- try appetizer recipe with lots of crackers and chilled white wine.

    Enjoy!

    Get the Recipe @ imagelicious


    18. Chickpea Flatbread from Provence (Socca)

    Introduce this popular street food from France ,Chickpea Flatbread from Provence, at your next wine gathering.

    To make this delicious appetizer, you’ll need just 3 ingredients: chickpea flour, water, and olive oil. And, just 10 minutes of your time to cook.

    Enjoy this easy dish warm with some cheese, cured olives and a glass of crisp rosé.

    Get the Recipe @ thekitchn


    19. French Pate

    If you’re a fan of chicken liver, then this classic French Pate is the perfect appetizer for you!

    This traditional French dish is super creamy, rich, and delicious. Follow this easy recipe and use the serving ideas to make it the best appetizer every time.

    Make a huge batch of this Pate as it’s also freezer-friendly and always ready for a party.

    Get the Recipe @ daringgourmet


    20. French Tomato + Goat Cheese Tart

    Yet another smashing recipe to celebrate beautiful summer heirloom tomatoes, French Tomato + Goat Cheese Tart!

    This tart is super flavorful and satisfying. Just imagine a crispy, buttery crust, Dijon mustard, perfectly ripe tomatoes, fresh thyme, chopped chives, and big balls of goat cheese. All baked to perfection; sounds yummy, right?

    It’s makes a great appetizer for entertaining served with wine and a crusty French baguette.

    Get the Recipe @ coleycooks


    21. Wild Mushroom Galette

    Wild Mushroom Galette is a classic French tart that will wow your guests and make a stunning appetizer for any event.

    This gourmet tart is basically a one crust pie that can easily be made at home. And the filling of mushrooms, onion, creme fraiche, gruyere cheese, egg and spices is unbelievably delicious!

    A perfect appetizer for a cocktail or wine party.

    Get the Recipe @ themodernproper


    22. Lyonnaise salad 

    Lyonnaise Salad is a traditional French salad that is famous in most bistros in France for a very good reason.

    This simple yet super flavorful salad is made with a combination of slightly bitter frisée greens, smoky bacon and toasted croutons. It is then drizzled with an easy mustard vinegar dressing and topped with a poached egg for a creamy delicious taste.

    Serve with slices of crusty bread for a sensational appetizer.

    Get the Recipe @ carolinescooking


    23. Pissaladière

    Learn how to make this classic French tart, Pissaladière, at home with this excellent recipe. It may even become your new favorite on pizza night!

    This Pissaladière or Provencal tart is made with caramelized onions, anchovies, olives, and tomatoes and and is similar in shape and looks to a pizza. Cut into wedges or squares, it makes the perfect finger food for appetizers.

    Enjoy this tempting appetizer at your next party or drinks night.

    Get the Recipe @ alexandracooks


    24. Cheese Soufflé

    Cheese Soufflé, an elegant and classic French dish, has been one of the most popular French dishes of all time.

    Though souffles have a reputation for being temperamental, they are actually very easy to make. Buttery, cheesy and fluffy, they are the ultimate comfort food of French cuisine. Just follow this excellent recipe and in one hour your gourmet dish will be ready!

    Pair with salad for a delicious meal or serve in small dishes for an elegant appetizer.

    Get the Recipe @ onceuponachef


    25. Fromage Fort (French Style Potted Cheese Spread)

    Fromage Fort (French Style Potted Cheese Spread) is the perfect appetizer for all you cheese lovers!

    This classic French spread uses whatever leftover cheese you have in the frig combined with white wine, garlic, butter and salt and pepper. It’s super quick and easy to make and is delicious spread on French bread and crackers.

    You’ll need a large batch, as this spread is super addictive!

    Get the Recipe @ larderlove


    26. Niçoise Salad

    Niçoise Salad is a classic French-style salad that is super simple to make but is incredibly delicious.

    To make this quick and easy dish, you’ll need fresh veggies and hard-boiled eggs. Drizzle with a flavorful Dijon dressing and that’s it. Your beautiful salad is ready to serve.

    Enjoy with rustic French bread and white wine.

    Get the Recipe @ themediterraneandish


    27. French Cake Salé (Ham Cheese and Olive Bread)

    This French Cake Salé is a very popular French bread that is often served as an appetizer at get-togethers or as a snack.

    This Ham, Cheese, and Olive Bread is a cross between bread and a savory cake. And this salty and flavorful bread features a cheesy tender crumb that’s loaded with dried herbs, ham cubes, and briny olives.

    Give this addictive French snack a try, you’ll love it!

    Get the Recipe @ pardonyourfrench


    28. Escargot Recipe

    Let’s wrap up with this very unique and popular French appetizer, Escargot. This savory, gourmet recipe may take you out of your comfort zone but it is so worth it!

    In this classic French dish, snails are cooked in a butter, garlic, and parsley sauce and then served over a toasted baguette. It is buttery, scrumptious and unbelievably delicious!

    Be bold and give this appetizer a try!

    Get the Recipe @ foreignfork


    So there you go, twenty eight great French Appetizers. The only question now is, which will you try first?

    Pin or bookmark this collection of amazing recipes so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new easy recipes for you!

    Check out these other great recipe collections:
    French Recipes
    French Desserts
    French Chicken Recipes
    Asian Appetizers
    Greek Appetizers
    Spanish Appetizers
    Mexican Appetizers
    Italian Appetizers
    Indian Appetizers

    featured image for french appetizers post

    28 BEST French Appetizers

    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 10 minutes

    This collection of easy French Appetizers will add a touch of class and sophistication to your starter spread.

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups pitted olives, chopped (mix of black, green and kalamata)
    • 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes in a jar, chopped
    • 2 Tbsp capers, chopped
    • 1 garlic, minced
    • 1/2 fresh lemon, juiced
    • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
    • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
    • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
    • 8-10 basil leaves, chopped
    • Salt to taste (just a pinch as olives and capers are salty)
    • Pepper to taste

    Instructions

    1. Finely chop olives, capers, sun dried tomatoes and fresh herbs.
    2. Mix all together with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, chili flakes.
    3. Drizzle in olive oil and stir.
    4. Taste and adjust for lemon juice and garlic.

    Did you make this recipe?

    Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

    Picture of Alpana, blogger and recipe developer at GypsyPlate

    Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.

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