Appetizers are popular all over the world. In fact, in some countries appetizers can make up a style of eating. What this means, of course is that we can take appetizer recipes from all over the world, and enjoy them all. You can even combine cuisines and make fusion appetizers. It is easy to use your imagination when you make appetizers.

Dim sum is the form appetizers take in China. Dim sum is the name for a wide range of small dishes. When you order dim sum, you choose dishes from a cart that is pushed around by the wait staff. Some people offer dim sum as appetizers at their parties. You could treat sushi the same way and offer it as appetizers. Each piece of Japanese sushi is only a bite or two. You can also use Indian satay as an appetizer. Other Indian appetizers may be made from fish, chicken or spicy vegetables.

Italian appetizers fall under the heading of antipasto. This means "before the meal." Antipasto or antipasti usually consists of cheeses, dried meats, salads or sun dried tomatoes. You can also find bread dipped in olive oil or olives on the table before an Italian meal.

Tapas is the name for appetizers in Spain. They have truly elevated appetizers into an art form in this country. Tapas bars are very popular for their fabulous appetizers that are served with their alcoholic beverages. Some people even eat these appetizers as a full meal. It is said that tapas were developed when King Alfonso X made a law that wine must be served with food to prevent drunkenness.

In the United Kingdom, appetizers are called starters. France calls appetizers hors d'oeuvres, canapes, or amuse-bouche. In Sweden, the word smorgasbord refers to appetizers. They may be made of herring, salmon or eel as well as cheese, butter and bread. It is traditional in Sweden to eat cold foods, then hot foods and to keep the meal alternating back and forth between the two types of dishes.

Greek and Middle Eastern appetizers are known as "meze." Many are deep-fried and served with creamy dips made from fresh yogurt. In South and Central America, you can find seafood in many appetizers. Shrimp is often used, as it is already bite sized and delicious. Tortillas are also very popular, especially with dip. In the Caribbean, coconut chips are a common appetizer.

When you look at all the recipes from around the world, you can find lots of easy party appetizers to try. There is no reason to spend too much time in the kitchen when you are entertaining. Appetizers can be used as the sole source of party food or they can come before a meal.

It is lots of fun to use recipes from all over the world. You get to use your favorite ingredients and cuisines. Preparing for your party will be practically stress free so you can enjoy yourself. You and your guests can work your way around the world one bite at a time.