These Cuban appetizers and snacks are perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or just snacking. Our collection of Cuban appetizer recipes includes favorites like crispy empanadas, golden tostones, yuca frita, and classic Cuban sandwiches. Whether you're planning a game day spread or just looking for something good to snack on, you'll find plenty of ideas here.
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Serving ideas for Cuban appetizers
If you're serving several Cuban appetizers for a party or gathering, group similar foods together on platters or set up a few different stations. Here are some easy ways to put everything together.
Classic Cuban Sandwich Platter
Cut Medianoche or Cuban sandwiches into 2-3 inch pieces and secure them with toothpicks. Arrange them on a large platter or board with small bowls of pickles, olives, and mustard. Add plantain chips or tostones around the edges for extra crunch.
Crispy Bites Platter
Combine tostones, yuca fries, malanga chips, and frituras de malanga on a large tray. Serve with cilantro garlic sauce, mojo, and a garlic aioli for dipping.
Handhelds Platter
Group beef and chicken empanadas with pastelitos de carne on a platter. Serve with hot sauce on the side for anyone who wants a little heat.
Build-Your-Own Tostones Bar
Set out freshly fried tostones with toppings in separate bowls, such as ropa vieja, garlic shrimp, roast pork (lechon), and picadillo. Guests can choose their favorites and build their own.
Empanadas
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These crispy Cuban-style beef empanadas are filled with savory picadillo and make a fantastic handheld appetizer for parties and get-togethers.
Pastelitos de Carne
Pastelitos de carne are flaky puff pastry filled with savory meat and topped with a touch of honey. They're easy to make and always a hit.
Tostones
Tostones are twice-fried green plantains that are crispy, savory, and great as an appetizer. Top them with shrimp or ropa vieja to dress them up.
Cuban Sandwich
The iconic Cuban sandwich is layered with ham, roast pork, pickles, and Swiss cheese, then pressed until hot and toasty. Slice into strips or triangles for an easy crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Cuban Sliders
These Cuban sliders are a mini take on the classic sandwich, stacked with pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles. A favorite addition to any party spread.
Medianoche
Medianoche sandwiches are a classic late-night Cuban favorite. Cut them into triangles and secure with pretty toothpicks to create easy mini party sandwiches.
Yuca Frita
Yuca frita (yuca fries) are crispy on the outside and soft and creamy inside. Serve with cilantro garlic sauce for dipping.
Frituras de Malanga
Frituras de malanga are crispy fritters made with grated malanga, garlic, parsley, and a touch of vinegar. They're crisp on the outside and tender inside.
Chicken Empanadas
These shredded chicken empanadas are filled with a savory tomato-based chicken mixture. They're perfect for parties or afternoon snacking.
Chicharrones de Pollo
Chicharrones de pollo are bite-sized pieces of chicken that are seasoned, coated, and fried until golden and crispy. They make a great Cuban appetizer or snack.
Malanga Chips
Malanga chips are thinly sliced, baked until crispy, and full of mild, earthy flavor. A crowd-pleasing snack that's easy to make.
Cuban Style Meatballs
These flavorful Cuban meatballs (albóndigas) are seasoned with traditional spices and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Serve them as a hearty appetizer with toasted bread slices.
Camarones al Ajillo
Camarones al ajillo are shrimp sautéed with plenty of garlic in olive oil. They come together quickly and make an easy appetizer with toasted bread or toothpicks on the side.
I hope you found a few Cuban appetizers and snacks to try for your next party, game day spread, or casual get-together. Thanks for reading, and remember to save your favorites for later.
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Sheryl Secory
I am from Key West. And I love Cuban food.