To help you discover the most popular vegan dishes at events, we asked eight professionals from various fields, including a CMO and a CEO, to share their insights. The top eight vegan dishes commonly requested at events are from samosas to a vegan Buddha bowl.
- Samosas: A Vegan Favorite at Events
- Hearty Vegan Chili: A Crowd-Pleaser
- Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Popular Choice
- Vegan Sushi Burrito: An Unexpected Delight
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: A Versatile Dish
- Vegan Tacos: A High-Profile Favorite
- Hummus: A Go-To Vegan Dish
- Vegan Buddha Bowl: A Colorful, Nutrient-Dense Option
1. Samosas: A Vegan Favorite at Events
Samosas: This Indian dish is commonly requested at events that we host. Indian food has some of the best vegan options, and these delicious starters are a great option to serve at events that will please both vegans and carnivores. Most vegans love Indian food, a commonly requested dish to please everyone.
Marshall Weber, CMO, Stor-It
2. Hearty Vegan Chili: A Crowd-Pleaser
One vegan dish that is commonly requested at events is a hearty and flavorful vegan chili. Vegan chili offers a crowd-pleasing combination of plant-based protein sources like beans and lentils and a rich tomato-based sauce, vegetables, and spices.
It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various preferences and dietary restrictions. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in large quantities, making it an ideal choice for catering events and gatherings where vegan options are desired.
Served with toppings like vegan cheese, avocado, cilantro, and a side of cornbread, vegan chili provides a satisfying, nourishing, and delicious option that can please vegans and non-vegans alike.
Rhianna Jones, Registered Nurse, CanXida
3. Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Popular Choice
Our roasted vegetable and quinoa stuffed peppers are a crowd-pleasing vegan option that we get many requests for when we cater events for dental promotion and healthcare. These vivid and savory stuffed peppers will surely be a hit with your guests.
We stuff roasted bell peppers with a substantial mixture of quinoa, black beans, roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes), and a mix of flavorful herbs and spices. It is a delicious and aesthetically stunning dish suitable for vegans and those who do not follow a vegan diet.
Its popularity at various events, from weddings to corporate meetings, where guests’ food choices frequently differ, is largely due to the synergy of its flavors and textures.
Dr. Jennifer Silver, CEO, Owner, and Dentist Macleod Trail Dental
4. Vegan Sushi Burrito: An Unexpected Delight
A vegan dish that’s notably popular is the Vegan Sushi Burrito. Just last month, at a home unveiling, I remember seeing a long line at a local vendor’s stall. Curious, I joined in and was pleasantly surprised by the burst of flavors from a Vegan Sushi Burrito in my hand.
It was an unexpected delight amid a home-centric event! The blend of fresh veggies and tangy sauces, wrapped snugly, showcased vegan cuisine’s versatility to many attendees.
M. Rizwan, Business Manager, Great Lakes Tiny Homes
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A Versatile Dish
One vegan dish that is commonly requested at events I attend is the vegan vegetable stir-fry. This is one of my favorite vegan dishes, even though I am not on a vegan diet. I have particular preferences for how my vegetables are cooked when I order a stir-fry. The stir-fry sauce is also more crucial than how the vegetables are cooked.
Nothing is worse than a stir-fry that is too soggy. And this recipe for vegan stir-fry is anything but mushy! This dish is popular because it’s delicious and versatile and can cater to various dietary preferences.
It typically consists of a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms, tossed in a flavorful vegan sauce made from ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes a touch of sweetness like maple syrup or agave nectar. It’s often served over rice or noodles. Vegan vegetable stir-fry is a crowd-pleaser because it’s customizable.
Joe Li, Managing Director, CheckYa
6. Vegan Tacos: A High-Profile Favorite
One of the most commonly requested vegan dishes I’ve encountered is tacos. I recall a specific instance when a high-profile client mentioned, during a casual chat, how vegan tacos saved the day at their product launch.
The variety of fillings, from spicy beans to grilled veggies and fresh salsas, appealed to vegans and non-vegans alike.
Joe Troyer, CEO and Growth Advisor, Digital Triggers
7. Hummus: A Go-To Vegan Dish
Hummus is my go-to when preparing meals for events at my home. It’s the number one request from vegan friends and non-vegans alike.
It’s a dip that can be easily incorporated into any shared dish, like bread, cheeses, and vegetable platters, making it a great addition to any spread.
Jarir Mallah, HR Manager, Ling App
8. Vegan Buddha Bowl: A Colorful, Nutrient-Dense Option
A popular and commonly requested vegan event dish is a hearty, flavorful vegan Buddha Bowl. Buddha Bowls are versatile and customizable, typically containing various colorful, nutrient-dense ingredients.
They often include a base of whole grains like quinoa or farro, a protein source such as chickpeas or tofu, fresh or roasted vegetables, and a tasty dressing or sauce, often tahini- or avocado-based.
Topped with seeds, nuts, or fresh herbs, Buddha Bowls are visually appealing but also satisfying and delicious, making them a hit among vegans and non-vegans at gatherings and events.
Einav Biri, CEO, FARUZO
Making Vegan Dishes Shine at Your Next Event
Embarking on the journey of serving vegan dishes at your event is a noble and inclusive endeavor and a fun and flavorful exploration into the world of plant-based cuisine. Here’s a closer look at some of the dishes and how to make the most out of them for your guests:
- Samosas:
- Spice it Up: The charm of samosas lies in their spicy, tangy filling. Don’t shy away from incorporating authentic Indian spices. They lend an exotic flavor that is hard to forget.
- Pair with Chutneys: Serve with various chutneys to enhance the taste and give people options to suit their palate.
- Hearty Vegan Chili:
- Toppings Galore: Offer a variety of toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and vegan sour cream to make the dish interactive and customizable.
- Cornbread Companion: A warm cornbread can be a comforting companion to a spicy chili.
- Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- Color Variety: Use a variety of colored bell peppers to make the dish visually appealing.
- Grain Varieties: Experiment with different grains like millet or bulgur for a unique texture and flavor.
- Vegan Sushi Burrito:
- Freshness First: Ensure the vegetables are fresh and crisp. The contrast in textures between the soft wrap and crunchy veggies is delightful.
- Sauce Selection: Offer a few sauce options like soy sauce, teriyaki, or a spicy vegan mayo for dipping.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry:
- High Heat, Quick Cook: Keep the veggies crunchy by cooking them on high heat for a short time.
- Noodle or Rice Base: Offer a choice between a noodle or rice base to cater to different preferences.
- Vegan Tacos:
- Protein-Packed Fillings: Incorporate a variety of protein-packed fillings like black beans, lentils, or vegan meat substitutes to keep it hearty.
- Fresh Salsas: A selection of fresh salsas can elevate the taste and add a zesty, refreshing touch.
- Hummus:
- Smooth Texture: For a velvety smooth texture, consider peeling the chickpeas before blending.
- Variety: Offer a few varieties like classic, roasted red pepper, or garlic hummus to keep things interesting.
- Vegan Buddha Bowl:
- Colorful Components: Aim for a rainbow of colors with your veggies to make the bowl visually enticing.
- Dress it Up: A drizzle of a flavorful dressing can tie all the elements together harmoniously.
Extra Tips for a Memorable Vegan Spread
- Presentation is Key: The eye eats first. Make sure your vegan dishes are visually appealing. Play with colors, textures, and garnishes to make each dish inviting.
- Labeling: Label each dish with its ingredients to help guests make informed choices, especially those with dietary restrictions.
- Incorporate Variety: A mix of hot and cold dishes, spicy and mild flavors, and different cuisines can cater to various tastes and excite your guests about the menu.
- Sampling Stations: If possible, have a small sampling station where guests can try tiny portions of the vegan dishes. It’s a fun way for guests to discover new favorites.
With some planning and creativity, your vegan menu can be the talk of the town, making your event memorable and enjoyable for all attendees, regardless of their dietary preferences.
