cold appetizer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cold appetizer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a type of dish served before the main course that is served cold, often as part of a meal or at a gathering. Example: "For the party, we decided to serve a variety of cold appetizers, including shrimp cocktail and bruschetta."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Food

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Start with a cold appetizer, like Qingdao noodles ($5.95).

The New York Times

But a cold appetizer of spicy diced rabbit will silence the doubters.

The New York Times - Food

One evening, it took forever for three salads and a cold appetizer (caponata) to appear.

The New York Times

The mombar dish is usually $7, but I've been charged both $12 and $15 for the cold appetizer mix.

The New York Times - Food

The cold appetizer plates and the pasta-seafood combinations are terrific, and the simple, dark, tavernlike atmosphere keeps the focus on the food.

The New York Times - Travel

And even when a menu description is accurate, as with a superb cold appetizer called beef tendon, the dish may sound strange.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The menu is structured in a way that's familiar and accessible, cold appetizer-size dishes in one category and hot entree-size dishes in another.

The New York Times - Food

Cold appetizers come with fine puffy bread.

The New York Times - Food

There are 11 cold appetizers and 7 hot ones.

The New York Times

"They'll be eating some very cold appetizers".

The New Yorker

PRICE RANGE Dim sum, soups and cold appetizers, $7 to $30.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a selection of "cold appetizers", specify the variety and flavors to enhance the reader's understanding. For example, instead of simply stating "a cold appetizer platter", elaborate with "a cold appetizer platter featuring smoked salmon, assorted cheeses, and marinated olives."

Common error

Avoid using "cold appetizer" as a catch-all term. Be specific about the dish's ingredients, preparation style, and cultural origin to provide a more accurate and appealing description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cold appetizer" functions primarily as a noun phrase that identifies a type of food served before the main course, characterized by its cold temperature. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in menus and restaurant reviews.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Food

30%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cold appetizer" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe a dish served cold before the main course. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media and food-related contexts, the phrase serves a descriptive purpose, informing readers about the nature and function of a culinary item. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives like "refrigerated hors d'oeuvre" may be suitable for specific occasions. It's important to provide specific details about the dish's ingredients and preparation to avoid overgeneralization and enhance clarity. Ludwig examples showcase a variety of "cold appetizers" in diverse culinary settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chilled starter

Focuses on the temperature of the dish and its role as the first course.

refrigerated hors d'oeuvre

Uses a more formal term for appetizer and emphasizes the cooling method.

cold snack

A simpler term, useful in informal contexts.

chilled finger food

Emphasizes the ease of eating without utensils.

cold savory

Highlights the non-sweet taste profile.

cold first course

Highlights the position of the dish in the meal sequence.

cold platter

Refers to a selection of various cold items served together.

cold canapé

Highlights the small and decorative nature of the appetizer.

antipasto freddo

Italian term for a cold appetizer, useful in specific culinary contexts.

cool refreshment

Focuses on the refreshing quality and temperature of the appetizer.

FAQs

How do you describe a "cold appetizer"?

A "cold appetizer" is a dish served chilled or at room temperature before the main course. It can range from simple finger foods like vegetable sticks with dip to more elaborate preparations such as salads, cured meats, or seafood cocktails.

What are some examples of common "cold appetizers"?

Common examples include shrimp cocktail, bruschetta, caprese salad, and various types of dips served with crackers or vegetables.

What is a good alternative to saying "cold appetizer"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "chilled starter", "refrigerated hors d'oeuvre", or simply "cold snack".

Is it correct to use "cold appetizer" in formal writing?

Yes, "cold appetizer" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal contexts. However, for very formal occasions, using "refrigerated hors d'oeuvre" might be more appropriate.