Lose the Calories, Not the Taste: 12 Healthy and Delicious Appetizer Recipes

Is it possible to make a tasty appetizer without gooey cheese, fatty meats, creamy dips, deep-frying or all of the above? We're here to tell you that the answer is yes! There are all kinds of delicious appetizers to make and enjoy without a moment of guilt.

When you entertain this summer at your Springs luxury apartment home, delight your guests with these easy-to-prepare and healthy appetizers.

1. Five-Layer Mexican Dip

Tortilla chips and dip are a staple at summer gatherings. This version includes black beans for protein along with corn, avocados, tomatoes and scallions. A half-cup serving has only two-thirds the fat and calories of standard recipes.

2. Cucumber Sushi

Put a fun spin on traditional veggie sticks with this Asian-flavored appetizer. Avocado, red and yellow bell peppers and carrots make up the filling, with a zippy sriracha dip for a bit of heat.

3. Avocado Hummus

Can't decide whether to serve hummus or guacamole? No need to choose with this flavor mash-up that takes only 10 minutes to prepare.

4. Lasagna Zucchini Cups

You'll never miss the pasta in this low-carb variation of an Italian favorite. Unlike regular lasagna, eating this type with your hands is encouraged!

5. Carrot Fries

Baked carrot fries have a satisfying crunch that may have you swearing off the potato version for good. Serve with a tangy chipotle-lime dipping sauce.

6. Watermelon Caprese

The original Caprese recipe with tomatoes is always a good choice for a healthy appetizer or salad. Substitute watermelon for tomatoes for a refreshing variation that kids will love also.

7. Melon Prosciutto Skewers

Skewered dishes are always a hit at summer gatherings. Instead of protein-heavy versions, try this lighter variation with thin slices of prosciutto layered with mozzarella, cantaloupe and fresh basil.

8. Buffalo Chicken Celery Boats

Americans consume a total of 28 billion chicken wings each year. These buffalo chicken celery boats lose the skin for reduced fat content, and they're not nearly as messy to eat!

9. Teriyaki Shrimp Taco Bites

You can bite into these tacos without losing half the filling onto your shirt. Tortilla chip scoops stand in for the shell, and teriyaki sauce adds a welcome hint of sweetness.

10. Feta and Spinach Tartlets

Mediterranean dishes contain a number of low-fat and heart-healthy ingredients, such as the olive oil, Greek yogurt and spinach in these tartlets.

11. Sweet Potato Totchos

Healthy nachos? No, it's not a contradiction. Start with a base of nutrient-rich sweet potato tots and top with chopped avocado and tomatoes, black beans and Mexican cheese blend.

12. Crispy Parmesan Chickpeas

Have you ever been at a party and suddenly realized you've been downing mouthfuls of salted peanuts for who knows how long? Pan-fried chickpeas have the protein and the crunch without the fat and the sodium.

These appetizer recipes work equally well as dishes for a small-plates dinner. Do you have a favorite healthy appetizer recipe to add to our list? Tell us in the comments!