Get ready to snack all holiday long with these Fourth of July appetizers. From refreshing fruit salads to succulent chicken wings, these apps will make this Independence Day the most delicious yet.

Appetizers are often overlooked, but they’re the food that guests snack on most throughout the party. If you’re throwing an Independence Day party this year, set out a few Fourth of July appetizers to hold everyone over until the meats make it off the grill. Even then, these apps are so delicious that people will definitely keep adding them to their paper plates as sides. From classic dishes like chicken wings to some more daring dishes like BLT macaroni salad, we have all the best summery apps for your backyard barbecue.

We’ve included all kinds of on-theme foods, like flag-shaped recipes, quintessentially American desserts and patriotic-themed foods. I love that these recipes are really familiar to guests and are approachable for all kinds of cooks, but they are also genuinely standout delicious among a spread of snacks and apps. There are even a few no-cook recipes if this July is particularly hot and turning on the oven is simply not an option. (In that case, I’d suggest a few no-bake desserts too.)

A lot of these summery recipes utilize what’s in season, like watermelon, berries, peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers and much more. Remember: In-season produce always tastes best, no matter the season! Plus, many of these apps are inherently gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian or vegan, too, which is a relief when catering to guests of all diets. It’s nice to make everyone feel welcome at your party.

Taste of Home