Delicious Vegetarian Finger Foods for Large Gatherings

Parties, reunions, and other gatherings of large groups of people will invariably require food for the masses. For logistical purposes, the best choices tend to be finger foods - those which can be grabbed and consumed without the need for utensils. 

While meat is a popular central component of most finger foods, there’s something to be said about the vegetarian options available. Many meatless finger foods can be every bit as savory and delicious as those made with beef, chicken, or pork.

Give so-called carnivores something to mull over. Whether you’re feeding extended family, church members, partygoers, or those living in a residential treatment facility, these vegetarian finger foods are sure to be a big hit with large groups. What’s more, they’ll likely help to open up more minds to the idea of going meatless now and then.

§  Stuffed Spinach and Cheese Pastries

Whether they’re formed into rolls, pockets, or bites, spinach and cheese stuffed pastries are out of this world delicious. You simply can’t go wrong when blending spinach and cheese.

§  Buffalo-Style Cauliflower Wings

As the name implies, this recipe substitutes chicken with cauliflower chunks. Simply bread the chunks, bake or fry them, then douse them in buffalo sauce. Skeptical guests will be surprised by how crunchy and flavorful the wings turned out.

§  Artichoke Arancini

These are breaded rice balls stuffed with artichoke and fried in olive oil. While many traditional varieties of arancini include beef or ham, these are meat-free. You may want to also consider adding mozzarella cheese to the stuffing for some additional savoriness.

§  Garlic Tomato Bruschetta

This classic finger food is traditionally meatless, making it a go-to option for feeding a large group of people. Thinly sliced French bread topped with garlic, tomato, and parmesan then toasted to perfection is all this recipe entails. These go fast, so consider doubling the amount you make compared to other options on this list!

§  “Toasted” Cheese Ravioli

Originating from St. Louis, so-called toasted ravioli is typically fried after being breaded. While traditional ravioli contains a mix of various meats including beef, veal, and pork, a meatless alternative call for a mix of cheese instead. The cheese stuffing makes these particularly time-sensitive in the deep fryer, so keep your eyes on them to make sure the cheese doesn’t burst out of the dough. Serve with marinara dipping sauce.

§  Cheesy Garlic Fingers

This option is easy enough to visualize while also being wildly popular despite being vegetarian. Top a thin-crust dough with garlic sauce and mozzarella cheese and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Slice into strips and serve with a side of marinara sauce. That’s all she wrote!

§  Mozzarella Sticks

Last but not least, you can’t go wrong with serving your guests some mozzarella sticks. Once again, a side of marinara sauce is essential!

You can’t have a get-together without finger foods. While many of the most popular choices tend to include meat as a primary ingredient, the truth is there are many vegetarian finger food options to choose from. Pick one, two, or all of the above to serve your guests. Be prepared for raised eyebrows and wisecracks, followed by “Mmmmm!” and clean plates.