15 Vegan Appetizers That Will Make You the Life of the Party

Appetizers are usually not thought of as the star of the show, but that doesn’t have to be the case. While the small portions may not be as filling as the main course, in terms of flavor, appetizers can easily match up with entrees. So if you’re looking for starters that will be a hit with even the biggest food critics at the party, then this is the list for you!

1. Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Source: Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

These Crispy Hasselback Potatoes by Shane Martin seasoned with garlic and rosemary are the perfect side dish and so easy to make. Vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free! Air fryer instructions are included as well.

2. Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles

Source: Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles

These Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles by Maria Koutsogiannis are spectacular!

3. Fajita Quesadilla with Chipotle Cream

Source: Fajita Quesadilla with Chipotle Cream

This Fajita Quesadilla with Chipotle Cream by Amanda Froelich is perfect for eating at home with friends or family, for lunch or dinner. Additionally, if you have kids and they bring friends to your house, this recipe can turn into a delicious and nutritive vegan snack! It is so yummy and can be switched up to match your tastes!

4. Crispy “Chicken” Tenders

Source: Crispy “Chicken” Tenders

These Crispy “Chicken” Tenders by Mitch and Justine Chapman are baked or fried, tossed in Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, and served with a trio of tasty dips. Need we say more? Didn’t think so.

5. Adobo Garlic Fries

Source: Adobo Garlic Fries

In just one bite of these Adobo Garlic Friees by Desiree Rodriguez, you can taste the freshness of the potato and the zesty flavor of the Adobo and garlic combination. The mix of spices that make up the adobo used on these fries –cumin, black pepper, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and turmeric is so powerful that the smell of all of them together will make your mouth water.

6. Cashew Lettuce Wraps

Source: Cashew Lettuce Wraps

These Cashew Lettuce Wraps by Best Friends Animal Sanctuary are excellent to make for a quick snack or lunch!

7. Mac and Cheese Pies

Source: Mac and Cheese Pies

Macaroni pie is a Scottish delicacy that consists of a crisp, crumbly pastry crust that’s filled with macaroni and cheese. This dairy-free version recreates it perfectly, from the crust to the gooey, cheesy mac and cheese filling. There’s something otherworldly about the way these Mac and Cheese Pies by Emily Wilkinson come together, so much that you’ll probably be left speechless when you take your first bite. You can make one large pie for this recipe or several small ones if you’re looking to make a shareable appetizer.

8. Vegetable Spring Roll

Source: Vegetable Spring Roll

This Vegetable Spring Roll recipe by S.C. Chuang tastes so good even without any condiments or dipping sauces. I got to say you need to spare some time to make these at home! Nothing can beat homemade fresh spring rolls with your preferred fillings. So shatteringly crunchy on the outside with tender, juicy, spiced shredded vegetables.

9. Cauliflower Fried Rice

Source: Cauliflower Fried Rice

This healthy and nutritious Cauliflower Fried Rice by Pavani Nandula is colorful, filling, and great to pack in the lunch box.

10. Easy and Delicious Veggie Sushi Rolls

Source: Easy and Delicious Veggie Sushi Rolls

Nourishing, filling, and a delicious meal or snack. This recipe for Easy and Delicious Veggie Sushi Rolls by Lena Ropp is packed with nutrients, antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and protein. Avocado gives a delicious and creamy texture to the sushi rolls and a great balance with the crunchy vegetables.

11. Jalapeño ‘Cheddar’ Knots

Source: Jalapeño ‘Cheddar’ Knots

Adding a hint of heat to anything whether it be the focal point or just a hint enhances the flavor and actually helps you burn calories due to peppers containing capsaicin! This Jalapeno ‘Cheddar’ Knots recipe by Gabrielle St. Claire may seem like it has a lot of steps or time, but the instructions are seamless. It’s easy, cheesy, has minimal ingredients, doesn’t have to be perfect, packs heat, and is perfect for any season.

12. Blistered Green Beans with Preserved Lemon and Parsley

Source: Blistered Green Beans with Preserved Lemon and Parsley

These Blistered Green Beans by Claire Ragozzino make an amazing side for your holiday meal or for any meal for that matter! Not your basic boring green beans, with the crispy blistered texture and the pop of flavor from the preserved lemon – this dish is sure to impress any guest!

13. Bean Tlacoyos

Source: Bean Tlacoyos

Tlacoyos are a healthy and delicious Mexican antojito. Start with an oval-shaped corn base stuffed with beans, then top it with cactus salad, salsa, and vegan queso for a flavorful snack. You have to try these Bean Tlacoyos by Mitch and Justine Chapman.