Vegan Mediterranean Party Platter

When invited to a party, I always bring at least one dish, so I guarantee I won't starve. If asked to bring an appetizer, I prepare a meal on an appetizer plate and graze over my own dish. I'm subtle about it, but as anyone who eats this way knows, its survival of the fittest. Trying to eat healthy at parties is a struggle. Wanting to eat healthy and vegan is virtually impossible, unless of course you manipulate the situation by bringing your own fabulous food.

I often hear people complain about attending family functions and the food served at such events. Years ago, I stopped complaining and started bringing my own food to share with all. Even if I am the only one eating what I bring, I always have enough food to eat without feeling slighted in any way or form.

My daughter and I were invited to a Christmas basket party. Kristyn, my daughter is also vegan, so we joined forces to make a Mediterranean Party Platter.

I made Hummus and Tabbouli beforehand (see link) Oil-Free Hummus and Tabbouli, or you can buy hummus and tabbouli.

You will also need the following:

1 pint of grape tomatoes

1 small jar Kalamata olives (leave off if you are following a low-fat diet)

Pita bread (I used Paramount small rounds; they are oil free and fat free); you may use any pita you like.

2 cucumbers; cut fancy or straight

1 can whole beets; cut fancy or straight

1 jar artichoke hearts in water (make sure you don't buy the ones in oil).

I stacked some of the cucumbers together and used a long toothpick to connect them with a grape tomato on top. Arrange the vegetables on the platter. I used two martini glasses for the hummus and tabbouli, so I could fill in underneath it with vegetables.

You can also add carrots, celery or other vegetables you like.

My friends loved the platter and raved about how beautiful it was, as well as how good is tasted. Although there wasn't much for my daughter and I to eat, we enjoyed our platter and basket making without going hungry.