Meatless appetizers don’t have to feel like an afterthought. In fact, they can totally steal the show on your Friendsgiving menu. Whether you’re a vegetarian yourself or have vegetarian guests for Friendsgiving, these bites will make sure nobody feels left out. I know how stressful holiday cooking can be, so I pulled together a list of vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers that are both easy and crowd-pleasing. Check out these seriously tasty ideas!
1. Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are bite-sized comfort food, and they definitely deserve a spot on your list of vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers. The caps are filled with chopped mushroom stems, parsley, pecans, cream cheese, and Parmesan that gets bubbly as it bakes. Cremini mushrooms work best for their earthy flavor, though you can swap in portobellos if you want bigger portions. Using a piping bag instead of a spoon makes stuffing neat and uniform, which also helps them cook evenly.
2. Flavor-Packed Tofu Bites
Tofu puffs are basically the vegetarian counterpart of meatballs, and they taste just as great! They’re made by blending tofu with chickpea flour as a binder in a food processor, then rolling into bite-sized balls. For the glaze, go for a mix of Korean gochujang, ketchup, and maple syrup for that sweet-and-spicy kick. Don’t forget to serve with skewers so they’re easy to grab!
3. Broccoli & Carrot Pinwheels You’ll Actually Crave
These pinwheels look and taste so good that even non-vegetarians will love them. Broccoli and carrots bring color and crunch, while garlic powder, onion powder, and dill make the flavor pop. The tortillas used as the base hold everything together perfectly, especially if you chill the rolls before slicing. I love that they’re easy to prep ahead, making them one of the most convenient vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers.
4. Elegant Pear Carpaccio for Your Friendsgiving Table
While classic carpaccio uses thin slices of raw meat, this vegetarian version highlights fresh, juicy pears instead. Slice them thin with a mandoline and arrange the pieces like flower petals for a beautiful presentation. Roasted walnuts add crunch, though pecans or hazelnuts work just as well. Pair with vegetarian-friendly cheese such as mozzarella, then finish with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze to tie everything together.
5. Sweet Potato Squares Everyone Will Grab
These bite-sized nuggets are actually sweet potato puffs, and they’re perfect for dunking in a savory dip! Mashed sweet potatoes are mixed with cheddar and tapioca flour, then shaped into little squares. Air-fried or baked, they turn crisp on the outside and fluffy in the middle. For dipping, a smoky chipotle sour cream served in a ramekin really makes them pop. Hands down one of my favorite vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers!
6. Spiced Chickpeas That Pack a Punch
Chickpeas are the definition of versatile, especially when roasted until crunchy. Toss them with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil, then bake on a parchment-lined sheet pan so they crisp evenly. The result is a smoky, savory bite that’s hard to stop eating. Serve them in paper cones for a fun, mess-free appetizer, or use them as a crunchy topping for dips to give your vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers a flavor boost.
Related: 20 Finger Food Ideas for a Chill Friendsgiving
7. Mini Guacamole Cups with a Festive Twist
These guacamole cups are one of those vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers that balance rich and refreshing flavors perfectly. Each bite combines creamy avocado with sweet pops of pomegranate, all tucked into a crispy wonton shell. For best results, brush the wrappers with olive oil before baking in a muffin tin so they crisp evenly without burning. If you’re short on time, you can even assemble them a couple of hours ahead and chill until serving.
8. Flavorful Vegetarian Pancakes Made for Sharing
Savory veggie pancakes are a fun twist on the usual lineup of vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers. Grated zucchini and carrots make the batter colorful, while scallions add just the right amount of bite. For easy party serving, slice the pancakes into triangles and stack them on a platter with toothpicks tucked in. Pair with soy sauce or even a sriracha mayo for a little kick.
9. Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets That Disappear Fast
These cauliflower nuggets are crispy, golden, and every bit as crave-worthy as regular nuggets. The florets are lightly steamed, dipped in seasoned batter, and baked until crunchy. To keep it vegetarian-friendly, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of anything with hidden meat flavoring. Dip them in ranch, buffalo sauce, or even honey mustard for a playful vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizer that everyone will devour.
10. Maple Nut Clusters That Taste Like Fall
You’ll love how these nut and seed clusters capture that cozy fall feeling and are so easy to make! Toss almonds, cashews, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds in warm maple syrup and bake until they set into crunchy bites. Use a muffin tin lined with parchment or silicone cups to keep them neat and perfectly portioned. They’re sweet and salty, and a great way to add something crunchy to your lineup of vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers.
11. Flavor-Packed Potstickers Without Meat
Potstickers aren’t just for takeout nights. You can fill them with veggies for a Friendsgiving-ready version! This recipe uses green beans, eggplant, and mushrooms for a hearty filling, while tofu helps bind everything together. You can totally fold them by hand, though a dumpling press makes the job way easier. Dipped in soy sauce or chili oil, they’re one of the best vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers to serve piping hot.
Related: Friendsgiving Grazing Board Ideas Everyone Will Love
12. A Bright & Flavorful Vegetarian Dip
This whipped carrot hummus adds a gorgeous pop of orange to the table. The carrots are roasted until caramelized, then blended with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice into a creamy dip. A food processor is essential here for that ultra-smooth finish. Sprinkle paprika on top for color and extra flavor, and serve with warm pita bread or veggie sticks. Friendsgiving spreads can always use a delicious dip like this!
13. Golden Artichokes That’ll Wow Your Guests
Artichokes don’t get nearly enough love, but they’re one of the most impressive vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers you can serve. The hearts are coated in Panko breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of vegetarian Parmesan, then baked until crisp on the edges and tender inside. Using a sheet pan lined with parchment makes cleanup easier and keeps the coating from sticking. Pair them with a lemon-garlic aioli for dipping, and you’ll have an appetizer that feels elegant without the extra fuss.
14. Colorful Beet Chips for a Healthy Appetizer
Looking for something colorful and crunchy? Beet chips are your answer. Thinly slice red or golden beets with a mandoline for even cuts, then bake until crisp. A sprinkle of sea salt is delicious, but you can also brush with rosemary-infused olive oil for an earthy upgrade. Line your baking sheet with parchment so the chips don’t stick. These chips are a lighter pick for vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers, but still pack a ton of flavor.
15. Mexican-Inspired Friendsgiving Appetizer
If you think stuffed peppers are basic, you’re in for a surprise. These tasty appetizers are Mexican-inspired and loaded with grains, quinoa, rice, and black beans, plus plenty of seasoning. The best part is that they’re hearty without being heavy, so they’re still a top-tier pick among vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers. A sturdy baking dish will be useful for keeping them upright while they cook.
Related: 15 Fancy Friendsgiving Table Setting Ideas on a Budget
16. A Bold & Festive Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Cranberry and jalapeño are the combo that instantly upgrades your vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers lineup. The tartness of cranberries balances perfectly with the heat from jalapeños, giving every cracker or crostini a bold punch. Use a vegetarian-friendly cream cheese or swap in a cashew-based spread to keep it vegetarian-friendly. Pulse the cranberries in a food processor before folding them into the cream cheese for even texture and a festive, ruby-red finish.
17. Comforting Vegetarian Friendsgiving Appetizer
Homemade breadsticks are simple, but they’ll always have a place among vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers. Start with pizza dough, twist it into long strips, and brush with garlic butter before baking. For extra flavor, sprinkle on sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning. Pair with marinara sauce in a cozy little ramekin for the ultimate comfort bite!
Final Thoughts
Vegetarian appetizers are never boring if you know how to mix flavors, textures, and colors. Adding one or two to your Friendsgiving menu is a great way to make sure everyone feels included and well-fed. I hope this list of vegetarian Friendsgiving appetizers gave you plenty of ideas to try!
