20 Simple Asian Starters You Can Find At Costco
If you love quick appetizers that taste restaurant-level without the fuss, Costco is a goldmine. These simple Asian starters go from freezer to table fast, but still feel fresh, fun, and crowd-pleasing.
You will find crispy bites, cozy dumplings, and slurpable sides that round out any spread. Stock a few of these and you are basically party-ready any night of the week.
1. Chicken Potstickers
These chicken potstickers bring the best of both textures: crisp bottoms and tender tops. Pan-fry straight from the freezer with a splash of water for steam, then let them sizzle dry for that golden finish.
Serve with soy sauce brightened by rice vinegar and a whisper of sesame oil.
They work for last-minute guests or a weeknight craving when time is tight. Add chopped scallions and chili crisp if you like heat.
You will watch them vanish one crunchy, juicy bite at a time.
2. Pork Gyoza
Pork gyoza lean richer than chicken, with a savory filling that feels extra satisfying. Pan-fry for crisp edges or steam for a softer finish, then dunk into soy sauce mixed with grated ginger.
A few drops of rice vinegar brighten everything, while toasted sesame oil adds warmth.
They make an excellent starter that often becomes dinner if you are not careful. Pair with a simple cucumber salad to cut the richness.
Keep a backup bag in the freezer and you are always prepared.
3. Mini Wontons
Mini wontons cook in minutes, which is perfect when hunger hits fast. Boil or pan-sear, then toss with chili oil and a drizzle of soy sauce for a spicy snack.
You can drop them into hot broth for an instant wonton soup that feels comforting and light.
They are great for sharing because people can grab a few without committing to a large portion. Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Keep napkins handy because that chili oil glistens.
4. Steamed Dumplings
Steamed dumplings are the cozy, soft alternative when you want comfort over crunch. Heat them in a bamboo steamer or microwave tray and serve with soy sauce and black vinegar.
Add thin slices of ginger for a clean, aromatic lift.
They are ideal as a warm-up to bigger flavors on the table. Pair with a refreshing salad or miso soup to balance richness.
When you want calm, gentle bites that still satisfy, these fit perfectly.
5. Shrimp Dumplings
Shrimp dumplings bring a restaurant appetizer vibe without much effort. Steam until the wrappers turn glossy and tender, then dip in a soy-ginger mixture.
A few drops of sesame oil and a sprinkle of scallions make them taste special.
The filling is sweet, bouncy, and delicate, so keep the dip light. Serve alongside sparkling water with lime to keep things bright.
Place them on a simple platter and they look instantly impressive.
6. Shumai
Shumai are bite-sized, savory, and dangerously easy to keep popping. Steam until juicy, then finish with a light brush of soy sauce mixed with sesame oil.
A tiny dab of chili crisp adds warmth without overpowering the filling.
They are reliable crowd-pleasers at any appetizer spread. Place toothpicks nearby for easy grabbing and less mess.
When you want maximum flavor in minimum bites, shumai always deliver.
7. Vegetable Spring Rolls
Vegetable spring rolls bring crisp texture and a light, snappy bite. Bake or air-fry until golden, then serve with sweet chili sauce or a tangy vinegar dip.
The vegetables stay crunchy enough to balance heavier items on the table.
Slice them on a diagonal for appealing presentation. If you want extra freshness, add lettuce leaves and mint on the side.
These are the “no one feels weighed down” choice, perfect for mixed crowds and snack plates.
8. Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are bigger and heartier than spring rolls, making them feel like mini meals. Bake or air-fry until the wrappers blister, then slice on the bias for a party-friendly look.
Serve with soy sauce, hot mustard, or a garlicky chili sauce.
They satisfy when you want something substantial before the mains. Add lemon wedges for brightness and a stack of napkins for crunch fallout.
People will circle back for seconds because they are that filling.
9. Tempura Shrimp
Tempura shrimp feel fancy with almost zero effort. Bake or air-fry until the batter turns golden and light, then serve with a classic soy-based tempura dip.
Spicy mayo also works if you want creamy heat.
The crunch is dramatic, so plate them last to keep them crisp. A sprinkle of sea salt wakes up the flavor fast.
Add lemon wedges and a drizzle of chili oil if you want a little extra spark.
10. Coconut Shrimp
Coconut shrimp brings sweet-savory crunch that always disappears quickly. Bake until the coconut toasts and the shrimp turns plump, then pair with sweet chili or pineapple dip.
The hint of sweetness makes this a crowd favorite, especially for appetizer-night spreads.
Keep portions small so guests have space for other bites. A squeeze of lime brightens everything beautifully.
If you want a little heat, mix chili sauce with mayo for a creamy, balanced dip.
11. Breaded Popcorn Shrimp
Breaded popcorn shrimp are effortless finger food. Bake until the coating crackles, then serve with lemon wedges to cut the richness.
Offer tartar sauce or a soy-chili dip for two different directions.
They are perfect when you want something guests can eat while chatting. Add a sprinkle of paprika for color and a pinch of salt right out of the oven.
The small size makes portioning easy and keeps the party moving.
12. Crispy Chicken Bites With Asian-Style Sauce
These crispy chicken bites are a dependable crowd-pleaser. Bake or air-fry until shatteringly crisp, then serve the Asian-style sauce on the side so the coating stays crunchy.
Toss individual portions right before eating if you want them saucy.
Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds for color and a nutty finish. Pair with rice vinegar slaw to keep the plate lively.
This is the fuss-free, everyone-will-eat-it option that disappears quickly.
13. Korean-Style Fried Chicken Wings
Korean-style wings bring sweet, sticky, and bold energy to the table. Air-fry or bake until crisp, then glaze with a gochujang-based sauce for heat and depth.
The balance of sweet, spicy, and garlicky notes keeps everyone reaching for another wing.
Set out lots of napkins because the glaze is gloriously messy. Finish with sesame seeds and scallions for crunch and freshness.
If you like extra heat, add a side of sliced chilies in vinegar.
14. Bao Buns
Bao buns are soft, fluffy, and fun to assemble at the table. Steam until pillowy, then fill with sliced chicken, cucumbers, and a drizzle of hoisin or spicy mayo.
Add pickled vegetables for tang and a pop of crunch.
They create a build-your-own appetizer moment that feels special without being fussy. Keep fillings simple so the bun texture shines.
A few cilantro leaves and crushed peanuts make each bite even better.
15. Pork Buns
Pork buns are warm, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Steam until the dough becomes fluffy and the barbecue-style pork turns glossy.
The sweet-savory filling has big flavor, so you do not need much more than a simple soy dip.
Serve them halved so guests can see that beautiful filling. They pair nicely with crunchy salads to balance the richness.
When you want something soft and hearty that feels special, these deliver every time.
16. Fried Rice (As An Appetizer Scoop)
Fried rice is not a classic starter, but small scoops totally work. Heat it in a skillet for smoky edges, then portion into tiny bowls with a sprinkle of green onion.
Add a dash of soy sauce and a few sesame seeds to finish.
It rounds out the spread and gives guests something comforting. Keep portions modest so it remains an appetizer, not a meal.
A splash of chili oil wakes up each bite.
17. Edamame
Edamame might be the easiest green appetizer around. Steam or microwave, then toss with flaky salt and a drizzle of sesame oil.
For a spicy twist, add chili flakes or togarashi.
Serve warm so the pods feel extra satisfying to pop. It is interactive and snacky without being heavy, which balances fried items on the table.
Add lemon or lime wedges if you like citrus brightness.
18. Seaweed Salad
Seaweed salad is cool, refreshing, and a perfect counterpoint to fried snacks. Thaw and chill, then toss with extra sesame seeds and sliced cucumber for crunch.
A squeeze of citrus sharpens the flavors without overpowering the umami.
Serve in a small bowl next to rich items like shrimp or dumplings. It resets the palate so everything else tastes brighter.
If you want heat, sprinkle a few chili threads on top.
19. Kimchi
Kimchi brings tangy, spicy energy that wakes up the entire spread. Serve it chilled in a small dish, or pile it alongside dumplings for contrast.
The fermented crunch and chili depth make rich, fried bites feel lighter.
If guests are new to kimchi, offer mild and spicy options. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and scallions looks great and adds nuttiness.
Keep a spoon ready because people will come back for little bites all night.
20. Instant Miso Soup Cups
Instant miso soup cups are simple but surprisingly satisfying. Add hot water, wait a moment, and you get a savory, comforting broth with tofu and seaweed.
It pairs beautifully with dumplings or spring rolls for a complete-feeling starter.
Keep a sleeve in the pantry for fast hosting. Garnish with sliced scallions to freshen the aroma.
The warmth sets a relaxed tone before the rest of your snacks roll out.
