Looking for a tasty and unique appetizer to serve at your next party? Consider trying some delicious Latin appetizers!
From empanadas and tostones to ceviche and bacalaitos, there is a wide variety of mouthwatering options to choose from.
These latin appetizers not only taste great, but they also offer a colorful and festive touch to any gathering.
50 Best Latin Appetizers
Whether you’re a fan of Mexican, Cuban, or South American cuisine, here are 50 Latin appetizers that are sure to delight your taste buds and impress family and friends.
1. Empanadas
Empanadas are small, savory pastries that are popular throughout Latin America, most notably in Argentina.
They are made by folding the empanada dough over a filling, such as meat, cheese, or vegetables, and then baking or frying them until they are crispy and golden.
Empanadas can be eaten any time of the day and are a popular street food found throughout Latin America.
2. Coxinhas
Coxinhas are a type of Brazilian snack that is made from shredded chicken and dough.
The chicken is cooked until it is tender and flavorful, and then mixed with a dough made from flour, eggs, and milk.
The mixture is then shaped into a ball and fried until it is crispy and golden.
Coxinhas are often served with a dipping sauce, such as hot sauce or ketchup, and are absolutely delicious!
3. Chorrillana
Chorrillana is a popular Chilean dish that is made from fried onions, potatoes, and beef.
It is a hearty appetizer that is perfect for sharing or enjoying on its own.
Chorrillana is often served with a fried egg on top, and is a tasty way to start any meal.
4. Tamales
Tamales are a popular Costa Rican dish that is made from corn dough that is filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or vegetables.
The tamale is then wrapped in a banana leaf or corn husk and steamed until it is cooked through.
5. Gallo Pinto
Gallo Pinto translated into spanish means “spotted rooster”. It is a traditional Costa Rican dish that is made from rice and beans.
It is is often served as a breakfast or side dish but can be enjoyed as an appetizer as well.
6. Arepas
Arepas are a type of Colombian corn cake that is made from ground corn and water.
The dough is formed into a ball and then flattened into a disc shape, and is then cooked until it is crispy and golden.
Arepas are often filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables.
7. Croquetas
Croquetas are a popular Cuban appetizer that is made from ground meat, cheese, or vegetables mixed with a béchamel sauce.
They are then rolled in breadcrumbs and fried until they are crispy and golden.
Croquetas are usually served with ketchup and/or mustard for dipping.
8. Pão de Queijo
Pão de Queijo is a popular Brazilian food that is made from cheese and tapioca flour.
The dough is formed into small balls and then baked until it is crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside.
Pão de Queijo is perfect for dipping in sauces or enjoying on its own.
9. Chicharrón
Chicharrón is a popular Latin American appetizer that is made from fried pork rinds.
The pork rinds are seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs, and are then fried until they are crispy and golden.
10. Llapingachos
Llapingachos are a type of Ecuadorian potato cake that is made from mashed potatoes, cheese, and eggs.
The Ecuadorian mixture is formed into patties and fried .
Llapingachos are often served with a variety of toppings, such as fried eggs or avocado.
11. Provoleta
Provoleta is a type of grilled cheese that is a popular food in Argentina.
It is made by slicing a block of provolone cheese and grilling it until it is melted and crispy on the outside.
Provoleta is often served with chimichurri sauce or other condiments, and is a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
12. Ensaladilla Rusa
Ensaladilla Rusa or simply ensaladilla, is an appetizer popular throughout Latin America and Spain.
This salad is made with a mix of cooked vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots and peas which are then diced and mixed with a tangy mayonnaise dressing.
Some variations of ensaladilla may also include tuna, eggs, or other protein sources, making it a satisfying and complete meal.
Ensaladilla is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a vegetarian or non-vegetarian option.
13. Empanadillas
Empanadillas are a type of turnover or pastry that is popular in Puerto Rico and other Latin American countries.
They are handheld pastries made with a dough that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, seafood, vegetables, or cheese.
The dough is then folded over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and is sealed and fried or baked until crispy and golden.
They are smaller than your typical empanadas, hence the “illas”, meaning smaller in spanish.
14. Chuchitos
Chuchitos are a traditional Guatemalan food that is similar to a tamale.
It is made from corn dough that is filled with chicken, pork, or beef.
The chuchitos are then wrapped in corn husks and steamed until they are cooked through.
15. Cazuela
Cazuela is a traditional Chilean soup that is made from beef, vegetables, and corn.
It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day.
16. Baleadas
Baleadas are a popular Honduran dish that is made from a flour tortilla that is filled with refried beans, cheese, and other toppings.
The baleada is then folded over and grilled until it is crispy and golden.
17. Alcapurrias
Alcapurrias are a popular Puerto Rican appetizer or snack made with mashed green bananas and yautía (a type of root vegetable).
The bananas and yautía are boiled until tender, and then mashed together with herbs and spices to form a dough.
The dough is then shaped into small balls or cylinders, and is fried in hot oil until crispy and golden.
18. Feijoada
Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian stew that is made from black beans, pork, and sausage.
It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is often served as an appetizer or main course.
Feijoada is typically served with rice, collard greens, and farofa, and is a fantastic way to start any meal.
19. Guacamole
Guacamole is a popular Mexican dip that is made from avocados, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
It is a creamy and flavorful dip that is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or other snacks.
20. Queso Fundido
Queso Fundido is another popular Mexican dish that is made from melted cheese that is served in a skillet or other baking dish.
The traditional Mexican cheese dish is often flavored with chorizo, onions, or other ingredients, and is a tasty and satisfying appetizer.
Queso Fundido is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or other snacks.
21. Pica Pollo
Pica Pollo is a popular Dominican dish that is made from chicken that is marinated in a variety of Dominican spices and herbs.
It is then fried until it is crispy and golden brown.
Pica Pollo is a popular Dominica street food as well as appetizer.
22. Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a popular Mexican dish that is made from flour or corn tortillas that are filled with cheese, chicken, or other ingredients, and then grilled until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy and golden.
Quesadillas y can be topped with a variety of ingredients, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole, and are a delicious and satisfying way to start any meal.
23. Choripán
Choripán is a popular Argentine sandwich that is made with chorizo sausage and bread.
The sausage is grilled until it is crispy and flavorful, and is then served on a piece of bread with chimichurri sauce and other toppings.
Choripán is a tasty and satisfying appetizer that is perfect for sharing or enjoying on the go.
24. Moros y Cristianos
Moros y Cristianos is a popular Cuban dish that is made from black beans and white rice.
The rice and beans are cooked together along with traditional Cuban seasonings.
It is a traditional Cuban dish that is named after the two groups, with the black beans representing the Moors and the white rice representing the Christians.
25. Vigorón
Vigorón is a popular Nicaraguan dish that is made from yuca, pork rinds, and cabbage.
The yuca is boiled and then mashed, and the pork rinds are fried until they are crispy.
The cabbage is then topped with the yuca and pork rinds, and is a tasty and satisfying appetizer.
26. Tostadas
Tostadas are a popular Mexican dish that consists of a small, flat, crisp round tortilla that is topped with various ingredients.
The tortilla is typically made from corn or wheat and is fried or baked until it becomes crispy.
Tostadas are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, depending on the size of the tortilla and the amount of toppings used.
27. Nacatamales
Nacatamales are a type of Nicaraguan tamale that is made from corn dough that is filled with chicken, pork, or beef, along with vegetables and spices.
The nacatamale is then wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed until it is cooked through.
28. Choclo con Queso
Choclo con Queso is a popular Ecuadorian food that is made from large kernels of corn that are grilled and then topped with cheese.
It is perfect for snacking on the go. Choclo con Queso is often served with a variety of toppings, such as avocado or chili sauce.
29. Ceviche
Ceviche is a traditional Peruvian dish made with raw fish or seafood that is marinated in citrus juice, typically lemon or lime juice.
The acid in the citrus juice “cooks” the fish or seafood, giving it a firm, white texture.
Ceviche is often served cold or at room temperature, and is typically accompanied by onions, chilies, and other seasonings.
It is a popular seafood appetizer or starter dish in Peru, and is enjoyed by many people around the world for its refreshing and flavorful taste.
30. Kibe
Kibe is a popular Brazilian appetizer that is made from ground lamb or beef, onions, garlic, and spices.
The mixture is formed into a ball shape and then deep-fried until it is crispy and golden.
Kibe is often served with a dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or hot sauce.
31. Causa Rellena
Causa rellena is a traditional Peruvian dish made with mashed potatoes, which are mixed with herbs and spices and then shaped into balls or cylinders.
These potato balls are then filled with a variety of ingredients, such as chicken, tuna, avocado, or hard-boiled eggs, and are often topped with olives or other garnishes.
Causa rellena is typically served cold or at room temperature, and is often enjoyed as an appetizer or starter dish.
32. Pupusas
Pupusas are a type of Honduran corn cake that is made from ground corn and water.
The dough is formed into a ball and then flattened into a disc shape, and is then cooked until it is crispy and golden.
Pupusas are often filled with cheese, beans, or other ingredients.
33. Anticuchos
Anticuchos are a popular Peruvian dish consisting of skewered and grilled beef heart.
The beef heart is typically marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and spices, and then grilled over hot coals until cooked through.
Anticuchos are often served with a variety of side dishes, such as corn, potatoes, or rice, and are often garnished with parsley or other herbs.
They are a popular street food in Peru, and are enjoyed by many people for their bold and savory flavor.
34. Patacones
Patacones are a type of Colombian food, that can be enjoyed as starter. It is made from fried plantains.
The plantains are sliced and then fried until they are crispy and golden. Patacones are often served with a dipping sauce, such as ají or garlic sauce.
35. Chinchulines
Chinchulines are a type of Argentine beef snack made from intestines.
They are cleaned, seasoned, and then grilled until they are crispy and flavorful.
Chinchulines are often served with chimichurri sauce or other condiments, and are a unique and tasty appetizer that is worth trying.
36. Bacalaitos
Bacalaitos are a popular Puerto Rican appetizer or snack made with salted codfish (bacalao in Spanish).
The cod is typically soaked in water to remove some of the salt, and is then shredded and mixed with flour, baking powder, and other seasonings to form a batter.
The batter is then fried in hot oil to create small, crisp fritters.
37. Humitas
Humitas are a type of Ecuadorian tamale that is made from corn dough that is filled with cheese, onions, and herbs.
The humitas are then wrapped in corn husks and steamed.
38. Arroz con Gandules
Rice with pigeon peas, Arroz con Gandules, is a popular Puerto Rican dish that is often served as a starter.
The Puerto Rican rice is cooked with pigeon peas, vegetables, and spices, and is often flavored with sofrito, a sauce made with onions, garlic, and herbs.
39. Mofongo
Mofongo is a popular Dominican dish that is made from mashed plantains that are mixed with garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
The mixture is then shaped into balls and fried until it is crispy and golden.
Mofongo is often served with a variety of toppings, such as pork, chicken, or seafood.
40. Pastel
Pastel is a type of Brazilian street food that is made from a thin pastry dough filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or vegetables.
The pastel is then deep-fried until it is crispy and golden.
Pastel is a versatile and delicious appetizer that is perfect for snacking on the go.
41. Chifrijo
Chifrijo is a popular Costa Rican dish that is made from beans, rice, pork, and pico de gallo.
Chifrijo is often served with tortilla chips, and is a delicious and satisfying way to start any meal.
42. Tostones
Tostones are a type of Cuban starter that is made from fried plantains.
The plantains are sliced and then fried until they are crispy and golden.
Tostones are often served with a dipping sauce, such as garlic sauce or ajo.
43. Cachapas
Cachapas are a popular Venezuelan starter dish made with sweet corn.
The corn is ground into a dough and then mixed with water, sugar, and other seasonings to form a batter.
The cachapas batter is then spooned onto a hot griddle and cooked until it forms a thick, pancake-like cake.
The popular Venezuelan dish is often served hot, and is often filled with cheese or other ingredients, such as meat or beans.
44. Pasteles
Puerto Rican pasteles are a cherished holiday appetizer on the island.
Similar to tamales, the dough for pasteles is typically made from green plantains, green bananas, taro root, or yuca.
Although they are a popular dish for the holiday season, many Puerto Rican households enjoy eating them all year.
45. Tequeños
Tequeños are a popular Venezuelan appetizer made with cheese.
They are small, elongated sticks of cheese that are wrapped in a dough made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and then fried until crispy and golden.
They are a popular street food in Venezuela, and are often sold by street vendors or at fairs and festivals.
46. Completo
Completo is a popular Chilean sandwich that is made with hot dogs, avocado, mayonnaise, and other toppings.
It is perfect for snacking on the go and often served with a side of fries
47. Chivito
A chivito is a popular Uruguayan dish.
It is a traditional sandwich made with grilled steak, cheese, and other ingredients.
The Uruguayan sandwich typically consists of a thin slice of grilled steak, which is topped with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and other toppings, such as bacon, ham, or fried eggs.
48. Yuca Frita
Yuca Frita also known as fried cassava, is a popular Salvadoran dish made with cassava root.
Cassava, also known as yuca or manioc, is a starchy, tuberous root that is commonly used in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.
Yuca frita is made by peeling and boiling the cassava root until it is tender, and then cutting it into strips or chunks and deep-frying it in hot oil until it is crispy and golden.
49. Matambre
Matambre is a popular Argentine dish that is made with beef, vegetables, and herbs.
The beef is rolled up with the vegetables and herbs, and then cooked until it is tender and flavorful.
Matambre is often sliced and served as an appetizer, along with chimichurri sauce or other tasty latin condiments.
50. Gambas al Ajillo
Shrimp cooked in garlic and oil, gambas al ajillo is a popular Cuban and Spanish dish.
The shrimp are typically marinated in a mixture of garlic, parsley, and other seasonings, and are then cooked in hot oil until they are tender and flavorful.
They are often served with a side of rice or bread to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.
51. Carimañola
Carimañola is a fried pies made of dough and yuca.
You can stuff them with vegetables, meat, cheese, or any combination.
They’re usually torpedo-shaped, soft on the inside, and crispy on the outside.
Carimañolas taste depends on the filling ingredients because yuca dough doesn’t have an intense flavor.
Final Latin Appetizers Thoughts
In conclusion, Latin American cuisine offers a wide variety of delicious and satisfying appetizers, or “starters,” that are sure to impress.
From refreshing and flavorful ceviche to crispy and savory empanadas, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
So why not try some of these tasty latin dishes and discover the flavors of Latin America for yourself?
Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or vegetables, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Buen Provecho!
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Jorge Garcia is the founder of AmigoFoods, where he has spent over 20 years helping readers discover authentic Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Raised in a Cuban-American household, Jorge learned to cook at the hands of his mother and grandmother, carrying forward generations of family recipes. That heritage, backed by his family’s four-generation history in the Latin food industry, inspired him to launch AmigoFoods in 2003. With more than 1,000 published articles on recipes, ingredients, and food culture, Jorge’s mission is simple: make authentic Latin cooking approachable for home cooks everywhere while honoring the traditions behind every dish.