Life

21 Vegetarian Graduation Party Recipes

by Kirsten Nunez

Eating a vegetarian diet means planning parties and events with a specific mindset. And if you are about to graduate high school or college, it also means scheming a list of vegetarian graduation party recipes for the big day. After all, there are so many unique and clever ways to serve meatless grub. Cue this list of rad recipes.

Serving an entire buffet of non-vegetarian dishes is an awesome way to introduce friends and family to the world of meatless meals. And because these recipes are anything but bland, you can be sure that your guests won't be bored. From sweet to savory, there is something for everyone on this list.

However, it is totally possible to provide meat alternatives for the non-vegetarians. For dishes such as sandwiches, nachos, and quesadillas, consider setting up a prep station for your guests. This way, everyone can construct their own meals and decide if they want to skip the meat. You can even include a list of suggestions and tips at the prep table. How’s that for DIY? Less work for you, more fun for them. Score.

With a little planning and brainstorming, you can throw the best vegetarian graduation party ever. Congratulations, graduates!

1. Crispy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Chips with Basil Aioli

Party-friendly finger food doesn't have to be all about fries and wings. These zesty zucchini chips by Closet Cooking offer a delicious alternative that even the pickiest vegetarian will love.

2. Mexican Street Corn Nachos

When it comes to your graduation party, don't settle for anything but extraordinary. And yes — we're looking at you, nachos. Make your menu special with this recipe by Closet Cooking.

3. Friend Ravioli Caprese Stacks

There's something about the word "stack" that makes food 10 times more appealing. I'm thinking it speaks to our hunger in the best way. Whatever it is, I'm into it. This ravioli stack recipe by Domestic Fits is an excellent example.

4. Herby Picnic Potato Salad

It's not a true summer party without a huge bowl of hearty potato salad. Instead of throwing mayo on some veggies and calling it a day, check out this version by Green Kitchen Stories. What's up, grown up appetizers.

5. Tailgate Fries with Sriracha Sauce

If you're into the idea of serving traditional fries, you better make them yourself! It's the best way to make sure this party staple gets the attention it deserves. While you're at it, make an amazing Sriracha sauce. Domestic Fits shows you how.

6. Mushroom Quesadillas with Chipotle Crema

With the right ingredients, you can make filling quesadillas without the chicken or pork. It's all about cooking mushrooms to perfection and whipping up a flavorful chipotle sauce. Turn to Closet Cooking to learn how.

7. Grilled Watermelon Salad

Impress your guests with an unconventional, refreshing salad made with grilled watermelon. It proves that all that fun at the grill isn't just for meat. Visit Domestic Fits for the full recipe.

8. Grilled Corn with Sriracha Scallion Butter

While we're on the topic of grilling, check out Domestic Fits' tutorial for grilled corn and Sriracha scallion butter. This simple picnic staple just got so much cooler.

9. Blueberry Apricot Summer Salad

Summer salads double as flavorful sides and main dishes, making them a vegetarian grad's best friend. Check out Green Kitchen Stories for a unique version featuring sweet blueberries and apricots.

10. Tropical Chickpea Salad

Who says salads have to be all about the greens? Give chickpeas a chance with this tropical recipe by Averie Cooks. You'll get a healthy dose of protein topped off with both mangoes and pineapples.

11. Spicy Vegan Chili

Chili is amazing for topping off nachos, rice, or pasta. It's also amazing for eating by itself. Make this vegan version with some help from A Cozy Kitchen.

12. Greek Pasta Salad

Made with a Greek yogurt base and a medley of veggies, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is super easy to make. Turn to Domestic Fits for the full how-to.

13. Veggie Crescent Bites

In the midst of graduation craziness, quick and simple meals will always save the day. Visit Mom on Time Out to learn how to make these vegetarian-friendly bites in a jiffy.

14. Blueberry Coconut Super Smoothie

Keep your guests energized and refreshed with this blueberry coconut smoothie by Green Kitchen Stories. You can even make a large batch ahead of time and freeze them into mini popsicles. Yum.

15. Passion Fruit Summer Drink

Kick off summer the right way with a flavorful fruity drink. Instead of going for store-bought versions full of sugar and preservatives, try making your own. This passion fruit version by Green Kitchen Stories is the perfect place to start.

16. Italian Cheesecake Jars

Graduation season is a busy time of the year. Instead of worrying about desserts and treats, let guests make these cheesecake jars by Green Kitchen Stories during the party. How's that for a built-in activity?

17. Rainbow Roasted Vegetable Salad

For a simple yet beautiful way to serve a salad, take a tip from A Spicy Perspective. This rainbow salad is fun to look at and eat. What's not to love?

18. Chocolate Banana Pops

Keep the easy breezy trend going with this charming banana pop idea by Domestic Fits. Adults and children will both love this sweet treat on a hot summer day.

19. Watermelon Gazpacho

Cool down with a (healthy) dose of fanciness by making this watermelon gazpacho recipe by Green Kitchen Stories. Serve it as an appetizer, dessert, or even as a side.

20. Grilled Peach Ice Cream

Like I said... the grill isn't just for the meat. This clever ice cream recipe by Domestic Fits features an unconventional flavor that your guests will surely swoon over.

21. Fruit Rolls

Just because you're now a real-life adult doesn't mean you can't indulge in the sweet treats of your childhood. Green Kitchen Stories demonstrates how to make a healthier version of the traditional Fruit Roll-Ups. Party favors, anyone?

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