The vegan diet has gained traction for its health benefits, positive environmental impact and promotion of animal rights. Of course, cutting out all animal-based products from your life can make it seem like you have no delicious foods to turn to, and preparing elaborate vegan dishes can seem like a daunting task, especially if you're entertaining guests. But worry not -- we've found a few select recipes for vegan appetizers to make for your next social event that will wow everybody.
Oven-Fried Parmesan Zucchini Crisps
Looking for a healthy, tasty solution to regular potato chips? These zucchini crisps completely reinvent this snack craving. The zucchini slices are breaded using flour, almond milk and bread crumbs, tossed in olive oil and then baked in the oven for a delicious treat. For extra flavor, sprinkle parmesan on them and serve with marinara dip.
Smoked Cashew Cheese Spread
Who said you have to give up your beloved cheese once you go vegan? No gathering is complete without a savory cheese dip, and this vegan-friendly smoked cashew cheese spread is sure to get the party started. Making this spread is simple -- just throw the ingredients into a blender and purée until smooth. The spread goes nicely on pita bread or as a dip served with vegetables or pickles.
Cherry Tomato Bites
These cherry tomato bites burst with deliciousness, and your guests are sure to devour an entire tray. This recipe combines chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice and seasonings into a food processor to create a smooth, flavorful filling. Cut cherry tomatoes in half, remove the seeds, and use a piping bag to fill the cherry vegetables with the tasty chickpea filling. Add some diced green onions as a garnish and you have yourself a tasty app.
Vegan Sundried Tomato Sweet Potato Bites
Tomato and potato make for an awesome snack with this incredible recipe. Cashews blended together with sundried tomatoes and micro basil leaves make for a wonderful creamy spread. Take some sliced sweet potatoes, drizzle them with oil and season them with salt to taste, and then bake them in an oven until golden brown. The sweet potato chips topped with the spread make for a flavorful treat.
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
This roasted red pepper dip contains charred red bell peppers that are then peeled and seeded. The peppers are then transferred to a food processor and pulsed to give them a rough chop. Raisins, olive oil, capers and oregano are then added and the whole mix is pulsed together to give a coarse texture for the dip. Red wine vinegar and salt are added to taste to give a smokey and sour taste that will impress everybody at your next party.
