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 [1] 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 [2].
Salt and Vinegar Kale Chips
If you like the tangy taste of Salt & Vinegar Lay's, these salty kale chips [3] 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 [4].
Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus
Don't even think about skipping the tomato garnish atop this sun-dried tomato hummus [5] — 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 [6] 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 [7]. The flavorful filling is a mixture of greens, walnuts, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts.
Red Lentil Paté
After tasting this Japanese-influenced terrine [8], 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 [9] are the perfect choice.
Mediterranean-Spiced Roasted Chickpeas
Forget bar nuts — these cumin-dusted chickpeas [10] are an unexpectedly delightful snack to nosh on with a frosty bottle in hand.
Eggplant Dip
Lush baba ghanoush [11] 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) [12], but they're sure to love the creative dish.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Once you taste this tomatillo salsa recipe [13], you'll never buy the jarred stuff again.
Grilled Pineapple and Coconut Guacamole
Upgrade guacamole with tropical fruits — coconut and pineapple [14] — for an inspired take on this perennial favorite.
Hummus, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Pea Shoot Crostini
This hearty, hummus-topped toast [15] serves equally as well as a party nibble as it does as a snack for one.
Classic Hummus
Warm pita and creamy hummus [16] make the perfect dish for communal snacking.
Garam Masala Popcorn
Garam-masala-spiced popcorn [17] 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 [18].
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 [19].
Watermelon, Radish, and Avocado Tacos
You don't need a meat filling to create a perfect taco, and these watermelon- and radish-filled wraps [20] are proof.
Old Bay Hummus
Old Bay seasoning isn't just for seafood anymore. Try the tasty concoction in hummus [21] for a new way to enjoy an old favorite.
Eggplant Caviar
Eggplant spread [22] — or melitzanosalata — is a Greek favorite that's sure to please even the pickiest palates.
