7 Vegan Appetizers: Easy Recipes for Vegan Hors d'Oeuvres

Vegan appetizers are plant-based dishes or variations of classic appetizers or finger foods that either omit or replace any animal products. Various comfort food appetizers might contain meat or cheese, but there are simple ingredient replacements and substitutions that follow [vegan](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vegan-vs-vegetarian-guide) food guidelines without sacrificing the flavor of your favorite side dish. Consider these simple vegan appetizer options: 1. __Artichoke bruschetta__: Toast a few slices of French bread and lightly coat them with olive oil before spreading an artichoke dip on top. Most artichoke spreads contain non-vegan ingredients like mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, but there are vegan substitutions available at most stores. Try this fifteen-minute recipe for [artichoke bruschetta](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/artichoke-bruschetta-recipe). 2. __Oven-roasted cauliflower bites__: Toast bite-sized cauliflower florets in the oven or air fryer for a crunchy appetizer. Lightly season the cauliflower with your spice of choice and serve it with a BBQ or buffalo dipping sauce. Learn how to make [roasted cauliflower](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-roast-cauliflower). 3. __Pita chips with black bean hummus__: Add some heat to your chickpea or white bean hummus with chiles or jalapeño peppers and finish it off with lemon juice and a cilantro garnish. This [black bean hummus](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/black-bean-hummus-recipe) recipe features chickpeas, black beans, and tahini. 4. __Sweet potato fries__: You can make oil-free sweet potato fries by chopping sweet potatoes and soaking them in water before you place them in the oven. Once browned and crispy, toss them with a pinch of salt and serve them with a side of vegan dressing. Try this [za’atar sweet potato fries recipe](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/zaatar-sweet-potato-fries-recipe) with Mediterranean flavors. 5. __Vegan charcuterie board with crostini__: In lieu of the meats and cheese you might add to a traditional charcuterie board, you can use creative combinations for a vegan charcuterie board. Pair pita chips or crostini slices with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions with Dijon mustard. Try this simple recipe for a [kale pesto](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/kale-pesto-recipe) that will complement other charcuterie items. 6. __Vegan cheese nachos with guacamole__: You can make dairy-free cashew queso with a food processor or use a store-bought vegan nacho cheese option. For additional color and spice atop your cheesy tortilla chips, mix up homemade guacamole and add diced red pepper. Learn how to make [vegan cheese with cashews](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vegan-cheese-recipe) at home. 7. __Veggie spring rolls__: This light appetizer incorporates veggies and fresh herbs. Fill the thin rice paper with zucchini, carrots, rice noodles, and red cabbage. Serve your spring rolls with a spicy peanut sauce or a sweet plum sauce for a nut-free option—or even a simple soy sauce or teriyaki sauce, both of which are naturally gluten-free. Try this fifteen-minute recipe for a [teriyaki sauce](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/teriyaki-sauce-recipe) you can serve as a condiment. Become a better chef with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Gabriela Cámara, Chef Thomas Keller, Yotam Ottolenghi, Dominique Ansel, Gordon Ramsay, Alice Waters, and more. Discover these vegan appetizer recipes. Packed with whole-food flavor, these dishes require little prep time.