My family sometimes likes to serve appetizers for the holidays instead of a traditional sit-down dinner. I like making an array of vegan appetizers, so I offer a variety of foods without overeating.
I favor a menu with appetizers only for a fun change of pace. But then, when I serve delicious finger foods, it's less stressful and inexpensive. However, the trick is choosing delightful appetizer recipes that mimic a traditional menu.
My vegan daughter hosted Christmas last year, requesting everyone bring a vegan appetizer or dessert to share. Her party was a huge success, and everyone enjoyed trying various foods and later exchanged recipes.
Selecting a Variety of Appetizers for a Holiday
Even though I enjoy serving my favorite appetizers, providing various vegan appetizers your guests love is essential.
For that reason, when planning all appetizers for the holidays, keep these categories in mind:
- Dips and Spreads: Everyone loves to dip regardless of vegetables, fruits, or crackers. Some of my family's favorite dip recipes are Vegan Layered Greek Dip, festive Vegan Pepper Jelly and Cream Cheese Spread, Spinach Artichoke Dip, and Vegan French Onion Dip.
- Vegetables and Fruits: A vegan appetizer party isn't complete without a variety of raw, cooked, and stuffed vegetables. My kids love Vegan Baby Portobello Mushroom Bites Recipe, Asparagus Wrapped in Dough dipped in Mustard Dipping Sauce, and raw veggie trays are always a hit.
- Snack Mixes and Nuts: I always set out nuts, popcorn, or Vegan Chex Mix for my guests to nibble on. Salty snacks are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Plant Protein: Where do we get our protein? Veggies, of course, but also from tofu, lentils, and beans. So, I like to serve Vegan Quiches and Vegan Tangy Crockpot Meatless Meatballs.
- Starches: Don't forget the vegan crackers, Vegan Bruschetta, or Sweet Potato Chips.
- Mini Desserts: Although not typically appetizers, I consider bite-sized desserts, appetizers for the holidays' menu. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls and Simple Vegan Chocolate Covered Strawberries are two of our favorites.
An Appetizer Party Planning Guide
First, consider the colors of the appetizers for a colorful and festive table.
You want to relax and enjoy the party, too. So plan a menu ahead of time. That makes shopping for and preparing the appetizers much easier.
For instance, a couple of weeks to a month before my party, I create a shopping list. As a result, all non-perishables can be purchased ahead of time, while I buy perishables closer to the party date. As a result, shopping during the holidays is less stressful.
Then, about a week before the party, I make any food ahead of time which I can freeze, quickly thaw, and reheat the day of the party,
However, a day or two before my holiday party, I prepare appetizers that can be stored in the refrigerator and buy any perishables.
Once the holiday party day arrives, I only prepare the last-minute dishes and set my table. But, of course, it always helps to assign friends and family to bring a dish to share
Favorite Dips and Spreads
Favorite Vegetables and Fruits
Plant Protein
Starches
Mini Desserts
With the holidays just around the corner, consider one of these appetizers for the holidays. Or, mix it up a little and have a party with all appetizers for a change of pace. Check out more vegan appetizers for a variety that suits your holiday and table.
Regardless of your holiday plans, I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday!
Hi! My name is Kathy, I am a retired high school English teacher & vegan enthusiast and blogger. My entire blog is fully plant-based vegan. I truly believe what we eat & how we live determines our health & the preservation of our planet! 🙂
Lisa
Kathy, It must be so much fun to have a plant based whole foods vegan family that understands the importance and impact of this lifestyle. I feel very fortunate that at least my husband is totally on board.
Kathy Carmichael
Hi Lisa, we are a house divided. My mom, husband, and children are on board. However, my sister, her family, my dad, and his wife are not! So, on holidays, we all bring food, regardless of who is hosting, so we can all eat and respect each other's dietary choices.