From stuffed mushrooms to juicy bruschetta, these easy vegetarian appetizers may be meatless, but they are not short on flavor.
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Bruschetta
From the Recipe Creator:
I drew inspiration from my grandma’s recipe for this garden-fresh bruschetta. The crisp bread and tomato goodness make a great party appetizer, but the dish also works alongside your favorite Italian entree. —Jean Franzoni, Rutland, Vermont
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 77 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 172mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
2/35
Chipotle Focaccia with Garlic-Onion Topping
From the Recipe Creator:
Chipotle peppers make some people grab their water glasses, while others can't get enough of the smoky heat. I came up with this recipe to fit right in the middle. Add more chipotle if you crave spiciness. —Frances Kay Bouma, Trail, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 159 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 206mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
3/35
Spicy Edamame
From the Recipe Creator:
Edamame are young soybeans in their pods. While I love to get them with my sushi when I go out, they are also so easy to make at home. —Mark Neufang, Bayshore, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 52 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 642mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
4/35
Spinach and Feta Bourekas
From the Recipe Creator:
These pastries are light and soft with a bit of crunch, and are one of my favorite appetizers for holidays. They can be filled with almost anything, but spinach and feta are my go-to fillings. Topped with everything seasoning, these little triangles are out of this world. — Alex Stepanov, Matawan, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 pastry: 383 calories, 21g fat (6g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 635mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 9g protein.
5/35
Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm enthralled with spanakopita, and this spinach and feta pinwheel recipe was a quick and easy way to enjoy the pie. I have used it for get-togethers and family events with great success. —Ryan Palmer, Windham, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 197 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 392mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
6/35
Stuffed Zucchini Flowers
From the Recipe Creator:
Stuffed zucchini flowers, or squash blossoms, are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture that’s a perfect contrast to the delicate fried shell. Serve them as a summertime snack or appetizer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed flower: 45 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 114mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Chickpea Fritters with Sweet-Spicy Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dishes in Pakistan, where I grew up. I have combined the light spice of Pakistani foods with the love of deep-fried finger foods that many Americans, including my daughters, enjoy. To eat, dip this chickpea recipe in chilled yogurt. —Shahrin Hasan, York, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 fritter with 2 teaspoons sauce: 46 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 156mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
9/35
Ravioli Appetizer Pops
From the Recipe Creator:
Ravioli on a stick is a tasty appetizer everyone talks about. They’re simple and fun to make and eat. Use packaged dipping sauces, or make your own. Get my recipes on my blog, thehopelesshousewife.com. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer (calculated without marinara sauce and pesto): 32 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 97mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
10/35
Fig Balsamic Walnut Flatbread
From the Recipe Creator:
With sweet figs, tangy balsamic and rich goat cheese, this is one of my favorite flatbread recipes. It's also delicious with arugula and caramelized onions. I reach for it often when I host a special event or have friends over for dinner. You can use any store-bought flatbread or pizza dough. —Rebekah Ranes, Sedona, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 168 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 178mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
11/35
Deviled Eggs
From the Recipe Creator:
Herbs lend amazing flavor to these deviled eggs, which truly are the best you can make! The recipe includes tasty variations that feature bacon, chipotle peppers and crab. —Jesse & Anne Foust, Bluefield, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed egg half: 73 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 81mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
12/35
Pistachio and Date Ricotta Crostini
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I regularly have date night at home where we make a four-course meal. For appetizers, I like to keep things simple but dressed up. I’ve found that making a special appetizer helps transform the atmosphere into a fancy meal. We’ve grown to really cherish these long and luxurious evenings together in our living room. Fresh figs can be used instead of dates if that's what you have on hand! —Kristin Bowers, Gilbert, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 57 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 74mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
13/35
Mac and Cheese Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
Young relatives were coming for a Christmas party, so I wanted something fun for them to eat. To my surprise, it was the adults who devoured these mini mac and cheese bites. —Kate Mainiero, Elizaville, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 91 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 162mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
14/35
Buttery Radish Baguette
From the Recipe Creator:
My dad and brother are crazy for radishes, and this peppery baguette appetizer is a big-time favorite. Add a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley on top. —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer (calculated without sea salt): 76 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 107mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
15/35
Moroccan Stuffed Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Coriander and cumin are zesty updates to the familiar stuffed mushrooms. The addition of couscous makes them very filling and delicious. —Raymonde Bourgeois, Swastika, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed mushroom: 25 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 81mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
16/35
Feta Bruschetta
From the Recipe Creator:
You won't believe the compliments you'll receive when you greet guests with these warm appetizers. Every crispy bite offers the savory tastes of feta cheese, tomatoes, basil and garlic. They're terrific for holiday parties or most any gathering. —Stacey Rinehart, Eugene, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 296 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 547mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
17/35
Garbanzo-Stuffed Mini Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
Mini peppers are so colorful and are the perfect size for a two-bite appetizer. They have all the crunch of pita chips but without the extra calories. —Christine Hanover, Lewiston, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 15 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 36mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
18/35
Appetizer Tomato Cheese Bread
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this recipe a few years ago in a dairy cookbook, and it has become a family favorite. My husband, Wayne, and our two children are mostly meat-and-potato eaters, but I don't hear any complaints when I make this bread! —Penney Kester, Springville, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 209 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 521mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
19/35
Air-Fryer Hush Puppies
From the Recipe Creator:
Crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside—these fried fritters are the perfect companion for a seafood night. Using diced jalapenos can add an extra kick. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 69 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
20/35
Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me this recipe, and whenever I serve these tortilla roll ups, people ask me for the recipe, too! The cream cheese pinwheels can be made ahead of time and sliced just before serving, leaving you time for other last-minute party preparations. —Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 63 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
21/35
Party Cheese Bread
From the Recipe Creator:
You can't go wrong with this recipe. The cheesy, butter bread is so simple to make but the taste is sinful. Plus it looks fantastic, and people just flock to it! It's better than the usual garlic bread too. —Karen Grant, Tulare, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 237 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 468mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
22/35
Caprese Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
23/35
Mini Grilled Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're looking for a fantastic make-ahead snack, try these miniature grilled cheese sandwiches. They're nice to have in the freezer for lunch with soup or a salad. My family loves to nibble on them anytime. —Anita Curtis, Camarillo, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 77 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 168mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
24/35
Avocado Goat Cheese Truffles
From the Recipe Creator:
Give guests the VIP treatment with luxurious truffles you can make in your own kitchen. The goat cheese is mild, and red pepper heats up each bite just a bit. Crackers are the perfect accompaniment. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 truffle: 65 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 43mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
25/35
Dill Vegetable Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me this zesty dip recipe many years ago, and now I serve it at our annual holiday open house. To make it mobile, spoon a serving of the dip in the bottom of a small cup, then garnish with fresh veggies. —Karen Gardiner, Eutaw, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 107 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
26/35
Greek Sandwich Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s an appetizer that tastes just like traditional spanakopita, but it’s much less work to make. —Lynn Scully, Rancho Santa Fe, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 87 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 200mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
27/35
Marinated Mozzarella
From the Recipe Creator:
I always come home with an empty container when I bring this dish to a party. It can be made ahead to free up time later. I serve it with pretty frilled toothpicks for a festive look. —Peggy Cairo, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 203 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 242mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 12g protein.
28/35
Onion Brie Appetizers
From the Recipe Creator:
Guests will think you spent hours preparing these cute appetizers, but they're really easy to assemble, using purchased puff pastry. And the tasty combination of Brie, caramelized onions and caraway is terrific. —Carole Resnick, Cleveland, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 121 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 109mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
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Garlic-Herb Mini Quiches
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a wonderful way to impress guests? You’ve got it—and you need only five ingredients to make these tasty apps! —Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini quiche: 31 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Marinated Almond-Stuffed Olives
From the Recipe Creator:
Marinated stuffed olives go over so well with company that I try to keep a batch of them in the fridge at all times. —Larissa Delk, Columbia, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 78 calories, 7g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
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Grilled Jalapeno Poppers
From the Recipe Creator:
These cheese-stuffed jalapenos are always popular when my husband and I host a tapas (appetizers) party. There’s a flavor explosion in each crisp and tender pepper. —Mary Potter, Sterling Heights, MI
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 66 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Besides being tasty, these little tomato poppers are extra awesome because you can make them ahead of time. At parties, I often triple the recipe because they disappear fast. —Christi Martin, Elko, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed tomato: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fat.
33/35
Wonton Mozzarella Sticks
From the Recipe Creator:
You won't believe something this easy could taste so fantastic! Crunchy outside with gooey cheese inside, these mozzarella sticks are a treat all ages will love. Kids could help wrap them too. —Shirley Warren, Thiensville, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 mozzarella stick: 241 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 423mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
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Air-Fryer Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to make these air-fryer quesadillas for party appetizers. Just cut them into thinner triangles. You can also switch up the cheese and the salsa to suit your taste. —Terri Keeney, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 223 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 406mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
35/35
Maryland Corn Pops
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh-picked sweet corn is a big thing in Maryland. Here’s my homespun version of Mexican street corn that brings in local bay flavors. —Kristie Schley, Severna Park, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 corn pop: 164 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 336mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
Easy Vegetarian Appetizers FAQ
What vegetarian finger foods are kid-friendly?
Kids will love the gooey goodness of mac and cheese bites, toasty cheese bread and crispy ravioli with marinara for dipping. A tray of raw, colorful vegetables with a creamy dip on the side is a great way to get kids to eat more veggies voluntarily. For little ones with adventurous taste buds, stuffed mushrooms and spiced chickpea fritters are fun, bite-sized options.
What are the best vegetarian appetizers for a party?
For a party, choose vegetarian finger foods that are easy to eat while moving around, simple enough to make large batches and ones that hold up for an hour or so after being set out. Tangy bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, flaky onion and Brie pastries made with puff pastry and classic tortilla pinwheels have wide appeal and come together quickly. A fancy cheese platter with homemade marinated olives is perfect for a more upscale gathering.
What are some cold vegetarian appetizers?
Cold vegetarian appetizers are great for events because they can be prepared in advance and chilled until serving. Marinated mozzarella, antipasto skewers and mini flavored cheese balls are satisfying and colorful options. Creamy or bean-based dips are also ideal make-ahead cold options because they don’t require reheating, are easy to set out with crackers, veggies and chips and let guests graze at their own pace.
