Vegan Appetizers & Snacks

Some of the questions I get asked the most are what do I eat if I’m craving this or what do I eat instead of that? So for the next several weeks, I’ve decided to share more insight into eating vegan. Let’s start with vegan appetizers and snacks. 😍

I’ve curated a list of my favorite recipes for you to try, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! (You’ll find links to the original recipes attached). Some recipes are from vegan cookbooks, but I have included similar recipes found on Pinterest.

Just remember to keep an open mind. Many of us have formed our eating habits over decades, and new diet habits require some getting used to. And often times, lots of experimenting!

Transitioning to a plant based diet requires a lot more thought and planning initially–but now, nearly 8 months in, it’s almost second nature to me. And no, I don’t have any (what I like to call) “carnivore cravings.” 😊 There is not one food that I miss eating or wish I could have. This is now my way of life.

I hope you feel inspired and more prepared to tackle a vegan diet! 🌱

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Made with a cashew cream base and artichoke hearts, this recipe is a must for your next party!

Deviled Potatoes

These are intended to be made with new potatoes, but the grocery store was out–so these are more like the size of goose eggs. 🤦‍♀️ Really delicious though! And no cholesterol like your typical deviled eggs! 🤗

Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

These truly are a thing of magic! While I have never made them myself, I recently tried them for the first time from a local vegan restaurant. And they are amazing! Taste and texture so unbelievably similar to chicken wings, you won’t miss them one bit. 🌱

Mexican Pinwheels

Kale Chips

If you’ve never made kale chips, you’re missing out! Crunchy, salt, and healthy–you can’t go wrong! Lightly toss in olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes, depending on how crunchy you want them. 😋

Buffalo Quinoa Balls with Ranch

Candied Pecans

You can read all about my cooking adventures with pecans here. 🤗

Arancini

Jalapeno Poppers

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are one of my favorite snacks. Crunchy, sweet or savory, low in fat, and packed full of protein and fiber. Super easy to make and oh so delicious! There are endless flavor combinations. 🤗

Hummus

If you’ve never made your own hummus, it’s actually quite simple. (For best results, use a good food processor). Because oil is full of empty calories, I instead use water or aquafaba (the liquid in the canned chickpeas). 

Cucumber Hummus

If you love cucumbers as much as I do, you’ll really enjoy this cucumber hummus. Light and refreshing, it makes for a great summer snack!

Buffalo Hummus

Not only do I love the subtle flavor of cucumbers, but I love me some spicy as well! 😊 This recipe is a hummus I make frequently; it’s best served with cucumbers or celery, but crackers are good too.

Black Bean & Corn Guacamole

Mixed Nuts

Vegan Cheese

Homemade vegan cheese has been the most fun to experiment with! You can read more about making homemade vegan cheese here.

Cashew Cheese

Tofu Chevre

Feta

Queso

Poutine

This recipe is really good! Surprisingly, the mozzarella was extremely easy to make and had great flavor as well. Highly recommend! 🤗

Vegan Charcuterie Board

I much prefer homemade vegan cheese over store bought brands. If you do want to try some though, I recommend Chao or Miyoko. Just my personal opinion, but don’t start with Daiya cheese or you’ll lose hope. 😝 😂 

Having never tried plant based meat besides vegan burgers, I cannot comment on them. Remember: plant based food outside of whole, real food is highly processed and should be (ideally) avoided or eaten in moderation.

• Cheese Ball
• Cheddar Cheese
• Pepper Jack Cheese
• Almond Cheese Spread
• Mushroom Pate
• Feta
• Chevre
• Vegan store bought cheese
  • Chao
  • Miyoko
• Hummus
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Plant Based meat
  • Sweet Earth (makers of Awesome Burger)– harmless ham, seitan slices, pepperoni
  • Field Roast— smoked tomato slices, wild mushroom deli slices, Italian sausage, etc.
• Bell peppers, celery, cucumber, tomato, artichokes
• Grapes, pears, figs, dried fruit
• Jam
• Olives
• Assortment of crackers and vegan bread

Store bought

Plant based queso dip by Good Foods, hummus, and guacamole are good options. Most grocery stores (and even places like Target) now have designated plant based refrigerated and freezer sections, so be sure to check those out. Always double check the ingredients though, as sometimes these items are not fully vegan.

As always, a whole food plant based diet is recommended and the healthiest option. However, I realize sometimes that’s not always realistic (especially when first starting a vegan diet). Whatever you choose, stay encouraged! Even small changes can have a lasting impact. 🌱

When a plant based diet gets difficult and you’re craving meat or dairy, just remind yourself of all the health benefits. And think of the positive ripple effects you are creating for humans, animals, and the environment. ❤️

And please, keep your questions coming! I love sharing with you everything that I have learned so far, and especially some of my own tips for transitioning to a vegan diet. Comment below with your questions, comments, or ideas. And stay tuned for more vegan cooking! We’re just getting started. 😉