No-Fuss Delicious & Nutritious Appetizers and Desserts to Bring to a Party

Ever drive yourself crazy wondering what to bring to a party?

There are a lot of factors to consider – portability, storage/reheating, food allergies and taste preferences, preparation time . . . .

In my experience the following guide are options that impress with little effort. So next time you feel panicked pre-party reference this post for an easy, delicious, and nutrient-packed recipe or two!

Savory:

Fun-Flavored Hummus + Veggies + Toasted Bread – Get creative with your hummus and add a flavor boosting. I personally love blending in one of the following: kalamata olives, balsamic vinegar, pumpkin puree, roasted tomatoes or peppers, or make my Beet Hummus. Here’s more inspiration.

Vegan Holiday Hummus Platter from Blissful Basil

A Seasonal Salad – Most salads are delicious at room temperature and hold up well for several hours (leave the dressing until serving). Start with your favorite greens then stir in bite-size roasted seasonal veggies, toasted nuts/seeds, goat cheese or avocado, and a pretty garnish such as pomegranate seeds or toasted coconut. Lemon and orange juice with extra virgin olive oil make a simple, yet delicious dressing. Here’s another creative idea.

A Sophisticated Cheese Plate – Melty brie, luscious burrata, a sharp white cheddar, and tangy Pecorino or Manchego are a great variety. Add a jar of fig or apricot preserves, healthyish crackers, mixed nuts, grapes, olives, etc and you will have a stunning presentation and tasty pre-meal assortment. Best part: you can buy everything you need at Trader Joe’s! Chao and Kite Hill (available at Whole Foods) make delicious dairy-free cheese or invest in this book for homemade varieties.

Vegan Queso – It’s made with eggplant!!!! Make sure to save some for yourself

Sweets:

Vegan Eggnog French Toast Casserole – Make your brunch dreams come true!

Caramel Apple Slices

The Best Vegan Gluten-Free Shortbread – Chocolate Caramel or Frosted with Berries

Pepita-Date Caramel & Dark Chocolate Shortbread from The Naked Food Life

Paleo Red Velvet Cheesecake – No-doubt a show-stopper

Brownies – Always a hit! Go super-indulgent or healthy but still delicious

Libations:

Christmas Sangria – But not just for Christmas 😉 It’s easy to change up the fruit depending on the season and occasion

Christmas Sangria from Half Baked Harvest

In a Rush??

Pick up a bottle of organic wine (low sulfites = no hangover!) for your host instead of cooking. Check out this list for the best options.

And for the best way to transport meals, check out these impressive, yet affordable bags!