Cocktail parties are a great way to socialize and meet new people in an elegant setting. Your next cocktail party doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some ideas for great, inexpensive appetizers you can serve at your next get together:

1. Cheese

Cheese is a popular appetizer because of its versatility. It pairs well with many types of wine and spirits, and it adds extra flavor to other snacks. Choose inexpensive varieties of cheese, but make sure you don't sacrifice quality for quantity. It's better to get a smaller amount of sharp cheddar than a lot of American cheese. Sometimes you can find discounted cheese by asking at the deli counter of your local supermarket; after the deli attendant cuts blocks of cheese into slices, the ends are often sold at a cheaper price.

2. Artisan Bread

No cocktail party is complete without bread. Artisan bread is a good value for your money. It's not much more expensive than a loaf of bread from the grocery store, and it tastes much better. A good loaf of sourdough bread is full of complex flavor and chewy, crunchy texture. When you buy high quality bread, you'll spend less money in the long run since you won't need to purchase spreads to make it taste good.

3. Fresh fruit

Fresh fruit is a great palate cleanser and an excellent choice for a cocktail party. You can get a great deal on fruit if you buy fruit that's in season. As an added bonus, seasonal fruit is usually much more ripe and delicious than its off-season counterparts. Serve sliced peaches, nectarines, and cherries in the summertime for an indulgent treat. In fall, serve pears and apples for a crispy autumn treat.

4. Crudites

A platter of crudites is a great addition to any cocktail party. Vegetables are inexpensive year-round, and they're easy to prepare. Carrots, celery, broccoli, and bell peppers are all vegetables that make excellent raw appetizers. Serve your vegetable platter with one or two dipping sauces. Homemade ranch dressing and balsamic vinaigrette are classic favorites. If you want to try something different, pickle your vegetables ahead of time. Any vegetable can be pickled, and the light vinegar flavor will pair well with creamy cheeses and sweet fruits.

Try something new and throw a cocktail party for all your friends. You can have an impressive spread of appetizers without spending much money. The key is to make smart choices and look for great bargains.