A Mediterranean-style dinner party centres on warmth, flavour, and simplicity. You don’t need complicated recipes to make an impression; it’s more about a few beautiful ingredients served with care. Imagine colourful plates of food that invite people to gather and share: a generous grazing board with hummus and roasted peppers, mini Caprese skewers with basil and mozzarella, roasted cherry tomatoes on toasted sourdough, or baked feta drizzled with honey. These vegan and vegetarian appetisers are easy to prepare, naturally full of flavour, and designed to suit every guest at the table. Each dish looks inviting, feels effortless, and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the evening without fuss. One of the essential ingredients to keep in your kitchen cupboard is a good-quality extra virgin olive oil. We favour the selection of Albanian extra virgin olive oils from a brand called Little Olive Oil.
Ten Easy Mediterranean Appetisers
1. Mediterranean Grazing Board: A stunning centrepiece that brings everyone together. Arrange bowls of hummus, marinated olives, and roasted peppers alongside sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and warm flatbreads or focaccia. Add cubes of feta or a plant-based cheese, and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
2. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes on Sourdough: Slowly cook cherry tomatoes in extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and thyme until they are soft and glossy. Spoon onto toasted sourdough, topped with vegan cream cheese or basil pesto, for a simple yet flavorful appetiser.
3. Mini Caprese Skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella or vegan cheese balls onto small skewers. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a touch of balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
4. Warm Beetroot and Walnut Salad: Mix roasted beetroot with rocket, walnuts, and crumbled goat’s cheese or a vegan alternative. Add a squeeze of fresh orange juice and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for a vibrant, tangy dressing.
5. Padron Peppers with Sea Salt: Sauté Padron peppers in a hot pan with extra virgin olive oil until the skins start to blister and the peppers are tender. Generously sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve warm as a rustic, shareable dish.
6. Courgette Ribbons with Lemon and Mint: Use a peeler to create long ribbons of raw courgette, then combine with lemon zest, fresh mint, and extra virgin olive oil. Top with pine nuts or toasted seeds. Light, refreshing, and vibrantly colourful.
7. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill halved mini sweet peppers with whipped feta or a vegan cashew blend. Garnish with chopped herbs, a pinch of chilli flakes, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
8. Baked Feta with Honey and Oregano: Bake a small block of feta or a plant-based alternative with extra virgin olive oil, honey or agave, and oregano until soft and warm. Serve with toasted pitta or crackers and scatter a few thyme leaves on top.
9. Herby Couscous Cups: Spoon couscous mixed with parsley, mint, lemon juice, and roasted vegetables into small bowls or lettuce leaves. Serve at room temperature for a fresh, easy appetiser and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to finish.
10. Marinated Artichokes with White Beans and Lemon: Combine artichoke hearts with cooked white beans, chopped parsley, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon zest for a delicious and refreshing dish. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a simple but satisfying starter.
Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil Is Your Key Ingredient
Every Mediterranean meal features high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It enhances the flavour of fresh salads, roasted vegetables, grains, and warm appetisers, adding richness and a smooth, balanced finish that makes even simple dishes feel special. Whether you’re layering tomatoes and basil, drizzling over couscous, or finishing a plate of roasted peppers, extra virgin olive oil brings harmony and depth to every meal. Little Olive Oil is made from carefully selected Albanian olives, cold-extracted to preserve their natural freshness and character. It’s the essential ingredient for every relaxed dinner. Discover more easy-to-make recipes at the Little Olive Oil website.
This article is a paid guest contribution. The views and information expressed are those of the contributor and not of My Notes For Living.
Full disclosure, this website owner is a shareholder in Little Olive Oil.