Appetizers to Go with Prime Rib Dinner: A Feast for the Senses

A juicy, tender prime rib dinner has an undeniable power to unite family and friends around the table. However, to truly elevate the dining experience, one must not overlook the importance of appetizers.

In this blog post, I’ll share with you some of my favorite appetizers that flawlessly complement a prime rib meal, tantalizing your guests’ taste buds and setting the stage for the main event.

Here, I’ve considered not just the flavors, but also the textures and presentation, to ensure that each dish adds something special to the table. So, without further ado, let’s embark on this culinary adventure!

1. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: A Flavorful and Eye-catching Appetizer

The delightful fusion of smoky bacon and earthy asparagus creates a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer that will entice your guests. This simple yet sophisticated dish combines the rich, smoky aroma of bacon with the tender, slightly bitter taste of asparagus, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

As an added bonus, the vibrant green hue of the asparagus spears contrasts beautifully with the warm, golden-brown tones of the bacon, creating an eye-catching presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

To prepare this delectable appetizer, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 lb thinly sliced bacon
• Toothpicks

Optional: Olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Rinse and trim the asparagus spears, removing any woody ends.
3. Optional: Drizzle the asparagus spears with a small amount of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cut the bacon slices in half, lengthwise, to create thinner strips.
5. Wrap each asparagus spear with a strip of bacon, ensuring that it overlaps slightly as you wrap it around the spear. Start at the base of the asparagus and work your way up, leaving a tip exposed.
6. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
7. Arrange the wrapped asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. Keep an eye on the asparagus during the final minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking, which can result in a mushy texture.
9. Remove the bacon-wrapped asparagus from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

This mouthwatering bacon-wrapped asparagus appetizer is not only simple to prepare but is also sure to be a hit at your prime rib dinner. The combination of flavors and textures, as well as the striking presentation, will make this dish an unforgettable part of your dining experience.

2. Stuffed Mushrooms: A Classic Appetizer with a Savory Twist

Stuffed mushrooms have long been a favorite appetizer choice for their enticing combination of flavors and textures. Featuring large mushroom caps filled with a luscious blend of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs, these scrumptious bites offer a delightful balance of creamy and savory elements. Baked to golden-brown perfection, this appetizer not only looks impressive but also primes your guests’ palates for the main course.

To prepare this delectable appetizer, follow the steps below:

Ingredients:

• 24 large white button mushrooms or baby portobello mushrooms
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems, and set the caps aside. Finely chop the stems and reserve for the filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, and chopped mushroom stems. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Using a small spoon, carefully stuff each mushroom cap with the cream cheese mixture, mounding it slightly on top of the mushroom.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
6. Drizzle the stuffed mushrooms with olive oil, which will help them achieve a beautiful golden-brown color during baking.
7. Bake the stuffed mushrooms for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

By offering these heavenly stuffed mushrooms at your prime rib dinner, you’ll provide your guests with a savory appetizer that’s both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. The rich, creamy filling perfectly complements the meaty, earthy taste of the mushrooms, creating an irresistible morsel that will leave your guests eagerly anticipating the main event.

3. Caprese Skewers: A Celebration of Fresh Flavors and Vibrant Colors

Caprese skewers pay homage to the beauty of fresh ingredients and the joy of simple, yet exquisite flavors. These delightful skewers showcase the vibrant colors and tastes of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mini mozzarella balls, all drizzled with tantalizing balsamic glaze and olive oil. This appetizer is not only light and refreshing but also a true feast for the eyes, making it an irresistible addition to your prime rib dinner.

To create these captivating Caprese skewers, follow the steps outlined below:

Ingredients:

• 24 cherry tomatoes
• 24 fresh basil leaves
• 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 24 small skewers or toothpicks
• 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Gently rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Drain the mini mozzarella balls from their liquid and pat them dry as well.
3. Assemble the Caprese skewers by threading a cherry tomato, a basil leaf (folded in half if large), and a mini mozzarella ball onto each skewer or toothpick. Repeat this process until all the skewers are assembled.
4. Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze and olive oil mixture evenly over the Caprese skewers, taking care to achieve an attractive and appetizing presentation.
7. Serve the Caprese skewers immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

With these refreshing, visually stunning Caprese skewers, you’ll provide a delicious taste experience that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients during your prime rib dinner. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella, all enhanced by the tangy balsamic glaze and rich olive oil, creates a harmonious medley of flavors that will delight the senses and perfectly complement the main course.

4. Mini Crab Cakes: A Delectable Seafood Treat for Your Prime Rib Dinner

For those who appreciate the delicate flavors of seafood, these bite-sized crab cakes are a dream come true. These mini appetizers feature tender crab meat combined with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, creating a flavorful and elegant dish that pairs wonderfully with the robust prime rib. Each bite of these exquisite crab cakes will delight your guests and add a touch of sophistication to your dinner.

To prepare this delightful appetizer, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1 cup breadcrumbs, divided
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Optional: Lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, 1/2 cup of the breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until well combined, taking care not to break up the crab meat too much.
2. Shape the crab mixture into small patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 24 mini crab cakes.
3. Place the remaining 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Gently press each crab cake into the breadcrumbs, coating both sides.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, fry the mini crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the crab cakes to become soggy.
5. Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve the mini crab cakes warm, accompanied by lemon wedges and tartar sauce for dipping, if desired.

Delicate crab meat enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb coating and seasoned with a delightful mix of herbs and spices, these crab cakes provide a taste sensation that elevates the dining experience. Your thoughtfulness in offering such a well-rounded appetizer will leave a lasting impression, making your dinner party a truly memorable occasion.

5. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: A Delightful Harmony of Sweet and Savory Flavors

This elegant and easy-to-prepare appetizer marries the delicate, salty taste of prosciutto with the luscious sweetness of the melon, creating a delightful contrast that excites the palate. Prosciutto-wrapped melon is not only a visually appealing dish, but it also offers a refreshing and satisfying balance of flavors that perfectly complements a prime rib dinner.

To make this sophisticated appetizer, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon
• 8-10 thin slices of prosciutto

Instructions:

1. Begin by cutting the melon in half and removing the seeds with a spoon. Then, use a melon baller to scoop out small, uniform balls of melon, or slice the melon into small, bite-sized wedges.
2. Take a slice of prosciutto and gently wrap it around the melon ball or wedge. You can experiment with different wrapping styles, such as folding, twisting, or draping, to create an eye-catching presentation.
3. Secure the prosciutto in place with a toothpick, ensuring that it doesn’t unravel as guests enjoy the appetizer.
4. Arrange the prosciutto-wrapped melon on a serving platter or tray, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and ensure that the appetizer is refreshingly cool when served.

As your guests savor the harmonious blend of sweet melon and savory prosciutto, they will be captivated by the simplicity and refinement of this appetizer. The delightful interplay of flavors and textures sets the stage for the sumptuous prime rib dinner to come, making the entire meal an unforgettable experience.

6. French Onion Soup Shooters: A Sophisticated Spin on a Classic Comfort Dish

Transform the traditional French onion soup into a refined appetizer with these elegant French onion soup shooters. By serving this rich, savory soup in small shot glasses, you’ll add a touch of sophistication to a classic dish. The flavors of caramelized onions, hearty beef broth, and gooey melted cheese come together to create a warm, comforting starter that perfectly sets the stage for the delectable prime rib dinner that lies ahead.

To prepare this enticing appetizer, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup dry sherry or white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into thin rounds
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become caramelized and golden brown. This process may take 30-40 minutes, but be patient, as caramelization is crucial for developing the rich flavors in the soup.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the beef broth, dry sherry or white wine (if using), and chopped thyme. Season the soup with salt and pepper, to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until they become slightly crisp.
5. Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven and sprinkle each one with a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese. Return the baking sheet to the oven and broil the baguette slices for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. To assemble the French onion soup shooters, carefully pour the hot soup into small shot glasses, filling them about 3/4 full. Top each shooter with a cheesy baguette slice, allowing it to rest on the rim of the glass.
7. Serve the French onion soup shooters immediately, while they are still warm and the cheese is gooey.

These French onion soup shooters offer a novel and stylish approach to a timeless comfort dish, creating an appetizer that is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. The combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese is a warm and welcoming introduction to the hearty prime rib dinner, making your gathering an event to remember.

7. Charcuterie Board: A Stunning Display of Flavors and Textures

A beautifully arranged charcuterie board is an impressive appetizer that can steal the spotlight at any gathering. Featuring a diverse assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and artisanal bread or crackers, a well-curated charcuterie board is both visually captivating and delicious. As guests mingle and explore the various flavor and texture combinations, it encourages conversation and builds anticipation for the main course.

To create a remarkable charcuterie board that complements your prime rib dinner, follow these tips and suggestions:

Selecting Ingredients:

• Cured meats: Choose a variety of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, coppa, and soppressata, to offer a range of flavors, textures, and visual appeal.
• Cheeses: Incorporate an assortment of cheeses, including soft (e.g., Brie, Camembert), semi-hard (e.g., Gouda, Cheddar), and hard (e.g., Parmesan, Manchego) varieties, to cater to different tastes and preferences.
• Olives and pickles: Add a selection of olives, cornichons, or pickled vegetables to provide acidity and balance out the richness of the meats and cheeses.
• Nuts and dried fruits: Include a mix of nuts (e.g., almonds, pistachios, walnuts) and dried fruits (e.g., apricots, figs, cranberries) for added texture and sweetness.
• Bread and crackers: Offer an assortment of fresh, crusty bread and artisanal crackers for guests to use as a base for their charcuterie creations.

Assembling the Board:

1. Choose a large, sturdy board or platter as the foundation for your charcuterie display.
2. Start by arranging the cured meats in small piles or rows, with each type of meat grouped together. You can fold, roll, or fan the slices to create visual interest.
3. Place the cheeses at intervals around the board, allowing enough space between them for guests to cut or slice the cheese easily.
4. Fill in the remaining gaps on the board with olives, pickles, nuts, and dried fruits, creating a visually appealing and balanced layout.
5. Finally, arrange the bread and crackers around the edge of the board or serve them separately in a basket or on a separate platter.

You’ll wow your guests with a stunning charcuterie board with an array of flavors and textures. As they mix and match their favorite combinations, the shared exploration of tastes and textures will foster conversation and camaraderie, setting the perfect stage for the prime rib dinner to follow.

8. Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A Rich, Flavorful Appetizer to Satisfy Every Guest

This sumptuous spinach and artichoke dip never fails to impress, offering a velvety, cheesy indulgence that keeps guests coming back for more. Combining the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and grated cheese, this delectable dip becomes a bubbling, golden masterpiece when baked. Paired with crusty bread or crackers for dipping, it serves as a mouthwatering appetizer that perfectly sets the tone for a prime rib dinner.

To prepare this irresistible spinach and artichoke dip, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 14 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Season the dip with salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish, and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
7. Serve the spinach and artichoke dip with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

The enticing combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese provides a rich and satisfying appetizer that pairs beautifully with the hearty main course to follow. This crowd-pleasing spinach and artichoke dip is sure to leave your guests eagerly anticipating the prime rib dinner that awaits them.

9. Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Bites: A Refreshing and Elegant Appetizer

Introduce a light and refreshing touch to your prime rib dinner with these delightful smoked salmon and cucumber bites. This elegant appetizer features small rounds of crisp cucumber topped with a dollop of herbed cream cheese and a sliver of silky smoked salmon. The harmonious balance of flavors and textures will tantalize your guests’ taste buds and leave them eagerly anticipating the next bite.

To prepare this vibrant appetizer, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 English cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced

Optional: Fresh dill sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Begin by washing and slicing the English cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the cucumber slices on a serving platter, leaving some space between each slice for easy serving.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped dill, chopped chives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, to taste, and mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the herbed cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, or use a plastic bag with one corner snipped off.
4. Pipe a small dollop of the herbed cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber round. Alternatively, you can use a small spoon to place the cream cheese mixture on the cucumber slices.
5. Cut the smoked salmon into small slivers, roughly the same size as the cucumber rounds. Place a piece of smoked salmon on top of each dollop of cream cheese.
6. If desired, garnish each cucumber bite with a small sprig of fresh dill to add an extra touch of elegance.
7. Serve the smoked salmon and cucumber bites immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

These smoked salmon and cucumber bites bring a burst of freshness to your appetizer selection, offering a delightful contrast to the rich and hearty prime rib dinner. The combination of crisp cucumber, silky smoked salmon, and tangy herbed cream cheese creates a culinary experience that will impress your guests and set the stage for a memorable dining experience.

10. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: A Symphony of Colors, Flavors, and Textures

This vibrant Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad offers a delightful blend of colors and flavors, making it an exquisite addition to your prime rib dinner. Featuring tender, earthy roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, peppery arugula, and crunchy walnuts, this salad is a feast for the senses. Drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey-balsamic vinaigrette, this appetizer provides a symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your guests.

To prepare this colorful and flavorful salad, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 4 medium beets, scrubbed and trimmed
• 4 cups arugula
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast the beets for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the beets from the oven and let them cool completely.
2. Once the beets are cool, remove the foil and peel off the skins using a paper towel or your fingers. The skins should come off easily after roasting. Slice the beets into thin rounds or wedges, as desired.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the honey-balsamic vinaigrette.
4. To assemble the salad, arrange a bed of arugula on a serving platter or individual plates. Scatter the roasted beet slices over the arugula, followed by the crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts.
5. Drizzle the honey-balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring that all components are lightly coated.
6. Serve the Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad immediately, allowing your guests to enjoy the fresh, contrasting flavors and textures.

Want to hear my opinion? Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a true celebration of colors, flavors, and textures. The combination of earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, spicy arugula, and crunchy walnuts creates a well-rounded appetizer that pairs beautifully with the prime rib dinner. The sweet and tangy honey-balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, ensuring that each bite is a delightful experience that your guests will savor.

Conclusion 

These ten appetizers offer a variety of flavors, textures, and visual appeal to create a memorable dining experience. By selecting a mix of these starters to accompany your prime rib dinner, you’ll not only whet your guests’ appetites but also set the stage for an unforgettable meal. Remember, the key to a successful dinner party lies in the thoughtful selection of dishes that complement each other and showcase your culinary creativity. Happy cooking!