20+ Vegan Appetizers to Start Any Dinner Party Off Right
Many holiday party hosts get nervous when they hear the word "vegan" spoken by a potential guest, but there's no need to fear vegan cooking. There are plenty of tasty, party-appropriate dishes that steer clear of meat and animal byproducts. Try a few of these appetizers for a scrumptious break from the norm . . . Even meat-eaters will love them!
Easy Breadsticks
A fresh batch of crisp breadsticks is easy to make and completely addictive.
Pico de Gallo
You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone (vegan or otherwise) who doesn't love classic pico de gallo.
Salt and Vinegar Kale Chips
If you like the tangy taste of Salt & Vinegar Lay's, these salty kale chips will rock your world.
Watermelon Mango Salsa
Watermelon, cucumber, and mango combine for a salsa that tastes like it just returned from a tropical vacation.
Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus
Don't even think about skipping the tomato garnish atop this sun-dried tomato hummus — it adds both visual and textural interest.
Pineapple Pickle Salsa
This dish sounds like a pregnancy craving, but the combination of pineapple, pickles, and pickled jalapeños is shockingly wonderful.
Stuffed Mushrooms With Arugula, Walnuts, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Many stuffed mushroom recipes call for sausage, cream, or cheese (or all three), but not these bold bites. The flavorful filling is a mixture of greens, walnuts, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts.
Red Lentil Paté
After tasting this Japanese-influenced terrine, your guests will definitely ask for the recipe.
Lime Granita Mango Salsa Bites
If you're looking for a refreshing way to start a party, these salsa-topped cucumber bites are the perfect choice.
Mediterranean-Spiced Roasted Chickpeas
Forget bar nuts — these cumin-dusted chickpeas are an unexpectedly delightful snack to nosh on with a frosty bottle in hand.
Eggplant Dip
Lush baba ghanoush will be an instant hit at any party.
Spanish Coca With Chard, Walnuts, and Raisins
We'll bet your friends haven't tried coca (essentially a Spanish pizza), but they're sure to love the creative dish.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Once you taste this tomatillo salsa recipe, you'll never buy the jarred stuff again.
Grilled Pineapple and Coconut Guacamole
Upgrade guacamole with tropical fruits — coconut and pineapple — for an inspired take on this perennial favorite.
Hummus, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Pea Shoot Crostini
This hearty, hummus-topped toast serves equally as well as a party nibble as it does as a snack for one.
Classic Hummus
Warm pita and creamy hummus make the perfect dish for communal snacking.
Garam Masala Popcorn
Garam-masala-spiced popcorn is a unique twist on a nostalgic favorite that will have everybody coming back for more.
Spicy Marinated Olives
Have just a few minutes? Look no further than this simple olive appetizer.
White Bean Dip
Bean dips don't begin and end with hummus. For something a bit different, try this citrus- and herb-flecked white bean take.
Watermelon, Radish, and Avocado Tacos
You don't need a meat filling to create a perfect taco, and these watermelon- and radish-filled wraps are proof.
Old Bay Hummus
Old Bay seasoning isn't just for seafood anymore. Try the tasty concoction in hummus for a new way to enjoy an old favorite.
Eggplant Caviar
Eggplant spread — or melitzanosalata — is a Greek favorite that's sure to please even the pickiest palates.