If you need some ideas for planning a vegan graduation party, or simply a summer party, you have come to the right place. Whether you want a full vegan menu or you just want a few vegan options, I’ve got you covered.
I’ve been vegan for nearly 25 years now and I’ve raised my children vegan since birth, so I’ve hosted a ton of vegan parties over the years. My kids are both teenagers now and I know what teens vegan or not will eat at parties.
Most graduation parties are happening in the spring or summer, so my list contains the recipes that can hold up in warmer weather.
I also know that most people at your party won’t be vegan, so these recipes are also things that non-vegans love as well. When I throw a summer party, I alway include an item or two from each section of the following lists.
Easy vegan dips
These easy vegan dips can all be made in 15 minutes or less and can all be made a day or two ahead of time.
Silken Tofu Dip
A whipped, rich and creamy, dairy-free dip made from silken tofu.
An easy caramel alternative made from peanut butter. Use as you would caramel in most recipes or add water to turn into a creamy peanut butter fruit dip.
A nice spread of vegan dips, appetizers, and finger foods is always a hit at any party. These are some of my favorites to make for summer parties, especially those with kids and teens.
Vegan Summer Sausage
A faux summer sausage made from wheat gluten and spices.
These are my favorite salads and sides to make for summer parties. Most can be made ahead of time and they stay fresh in a buffet line for up to 2 hours. I usually avoid green salads for parties because they can’t be made ahead of time and don’t stay fresh for long after you put the dressing on. These are my go-to for parties.
Orzo Pesto Salad
Orzo salad made with pesto, spinach, tomatoes, and olives. Delicious either hot or cold and makes great meal prep lunches!
If you are able to have a grill for your summer party, these are my favorite recipes to use on the grill. These are high-protein “meaty” recipes that my kids love!
Seitan Kebabs
Vegan kebabs with seitan, veggies, and teriyaki sauce.
If you don’t have a grill for your vegan graduation party but still want to serve a hot meal, I highly recommend that you use a slow cooker. I love to make a big batch of curry that can stay warm in the crockpot and be served over rice or quinoa when you are ready to eat. These are a few of my favorites…
Thai Green Curry with Tofu
An easy vegan Thai green curry recipe with fried tofu and fresh veggies.
These vegan desserts work great for summer parties. They can hold up in warmer weather, they all can be made a day ahead, and they are easy to grab and go without needing plates and forks.
Mini Vegan Cupcakes
A basic vegan vanilla cupcake that bakes up perfectly in small cupcake tins.
