Potlucks can be challenging with different diets at the table—but these vegan potluck ideas are colorful, crowd-pleasing and easy to make ahead.
1/29
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Now everyone can enjoy this classic Thanksgiving side. Just a few small tweaks make this a vegan green bean casserole, but no one will taste the difference! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 327 calories, 23g fat (11g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 944mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
2/29
Roasted Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
Try these savory bites for a kickin' appetizer that's tasty and healthy, too! —Emily Tyra, Traverse City, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1/3 cup: 39 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
3/29
Vegan Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Don't be fooled by the green color—this vegan potato salad is absolutely delicious! It's perfect for potlucks and for those with dietary restrictions. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 235 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
4/29
Black Bean and Corn Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a high school football coach who also likes to cook and garden. This black bean and corn salsa is a hit with my wife and our four kids, and when we entertain friends and fellow coaches. —Mike Bass, Alvin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 33 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 118mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
5/29
Apple Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
The apple flavor is simply wonderful. For an extra-special touch, drizzle the rolls with a confectioners' sugar glaze. —Christine Campos, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 110 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
6/29
Chard & White Bean Pasta
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to prepare dishes without gluten or dairy products, and this recipe meets the criteria when you use gluten-free pasta. It's proof you can use delicious, healthy products to create a crowd-pleasing meal. It's also soy-free, nut-free and vegetarian. —Amie Valpone, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups pasta mixture with 1/2 cup sauce: 369 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 801mg sodium, 67g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 13g fiber), 14g protein.
7/29
Beets in Orange Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
To ensure your family eats their veggies, why not top your beets with an irresistible orange glaze! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 63 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 39mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
8/29
Roasted Asparagus With Thyme
From the Recipe Creator:
This is good-for-you spring-time side dish is so easy to prepare, yet the simply seasoned spears look appealing enough to serve guests or take to carry-in dinner.
-Sharon Leno
Keansburg, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
7 asparagus spears: 55 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 101mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
9/29
Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Even without butter or eggs, these vegan peanut butter cookies are still soft and chewy. No one will be able to tell they're vegan! If you want a little extra texture, feel free to use chunky peanut butter or add ¼ cup crushed peanuts to the dough. —Katie Bandurski, Shorewood, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 79 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 107mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
10/29
Minty Peas and Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
Mother always relied on peas and onions when she was in a hurry and needed a quick side dish. Besides being easy to prepare, this recipe was loved by everyone in our family. It was handed down to my mother by my grandmother. —Santa D'Addario, Jacksonville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 134 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 128mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
11/29
Grilled Lebanese Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Amazingly, even our kids eat their greens, herbs and garden veggies when they’re prepared this way. Fresh and healthy never tasted more delicious. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 113 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 239mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
12/29
Vegan Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
All the classic flavors come through in this vegan macaroni salad, from the pickle relish to the ground mustard. The only thing you'll be missing is leftovers! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 93 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 114mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
13/29
Gluten-Free Almond Crispies
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s a wonderful treat everyone in the family can enjoy. Ideal with milk or tea, these cookies have cinnamon and maple in every crunchy bite. —Jean Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 54 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 18mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
14/29
Vegan Tortilla Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
Quinoa may be an unconventional ingredient, but it adds protein in this vegan tortilla soup, making it hearty enough for a main dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. If you enjoyed this, then you must check out our collection of vegan soul food recipes.
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 182 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 792mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
15/29
Almond-Pecan Date Truffles
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter and I came across a date candy recipe when she was learning about ancient Egypt. We changed some of the spices and nuts to suit our tastes. My dad was a beekeeper and Mom always made a coconut date ball for Christmas. The truffles remind me of past Christmases and are ideal for something quick yet festive on a holiday tray. —Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 date ball: 109 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
16/29
Marinated Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
My niece introduced me to this colorful recipe some time ago. I now make it when I have buffets or large gatherings because it can be prepared hours ahead. This is a great way to use a bumper crop of tomatoes. —Myrtle Matthews, Marietta, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
about 2 pieces: 93 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
17/29
Lemon Rice Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This salad makes a refreshing side dish for a special occasion meal. I take it to holiday potluck suppers and other family gatherings. People enjoy the combination of flavors, and I like that it can be made ahead. —Margery Richmond, Lacombe, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 247 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 84mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
18/29
Corn and Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
After tasting this cool salad at a family reunion, I immediately asked for the recipe. It has tricolor pasta, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes and crunchy peppers to make it pretty and tasty. —Bernice Morris, Marshfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 133 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 301mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
19/29
Mushroom and Sweet Potato Potpie
From the Recipe Creator:
The last time I was in the U.S., I had an amazing mushroom and beer potpie at a small brewpub. It was so rich and comforting. I tried numerous versions when I got home and I think I've come pretty close! —Iben Ravn, Copenhagen, Denmark
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 211 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein.
20/29
Fire and Ice Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
You won't miss the salt in this refreshing tomato salad! It's well-seasoned with cayenne pepper, mustard seed and vinegar but not the least bit spicy. This dish is always a hit at potlucks. —Nan Rickey, Yuma, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 72 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
21/29
Roasted Root Vegetables
From the Recipe Creator:
Pleasantly seasoned with rosemary and garlic, this appealing side dish showcases good-for-you roasted turnips, carrots and potatoes. It's a nice homey addition to our family's holiday meal. —Kerry Sullivan, Maitland, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 55 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
22/29
Green Beans with Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
This festive-looking side dish is a snap to make for a holiday menus or an everyday meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 52 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
23/29
Vegan French Onion Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This vegan French onion soup uses a few unconventional ingredients to create umami. If you cook vegan foods regularly, keep a jar of dried mushrooms in your pantry and add to soups, stocks and casseroles to add a savory, earthy note to your dishes. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 218 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 827mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
24/29
Joe Froggers
From the Recipe Creator:
Large, soft and chewy, these cookies are made to be munched. The classic recipe has a warm blend of spices that seems stronger the second day. Your family will definitely ask you to make them again! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 238 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 277mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
25/29
Mushroom-Bean Bourguignon
From the Recipe Creator:
In our family, boeuf bourguignon has been a staple for generations. I wanted a meatless alternative. All this dish needs is a French baguette. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 234 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 613mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 7g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
26/29
Black Eyed Pea Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My black-eyed pea salad reminds me of a Southern cooking class my husband and I took while visiting Savannah, Georgia. People go nuts for it at picnics and potlucks. —Danielle Lee, Charleston, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 130 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 319mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
27/29
African Peanut Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
Back when I was in college, my mom made an addicting sweet potato and peanut stew. I shared it with friends, and now all of us serve it to our own kids. They all love it, of course. —Alexis Scatchell, Niles, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 349 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 624mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 11g fiber), 10g protein.
28/29
Edamame Corn Carrot Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this easy salad while brainstorming light, protein-filled recipes. My vegetarian and vegan friends are especially big fans. —Maiah Miller, Monterey, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 111 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 135mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
29/29
Spice Trade Beans & Bulgur
From the Recipe Creator:
A rich blend of spices adds flavor to tender, nutritious bulgur and garbanzo beans in this tangy dish that has just the right amount of heat. A hint of sweetness from golden raisins is the perfect accent. —Faith Cromwell, San Francisco, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 245 calories, 6g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 752mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 8g fiber), 8g protein.
Vegan Potluck Ideas FAQ
What shareable vegan recipes can I bring to a potluck?
The best shareable vegan recipes are the ones built to travel well, portion easily and hold up on a buffet table. Dishes with structure—like grain-packed salads with ranch dressing, savory pies or vegetable-based spreads—don’t rely on being served hot. Recipes that can be sliced, dipped or scooped easily with gluten-free graham crackers work best for gatherings where food is passed around and served over time.
What easy vegan dishes can I make ahead for a potluck?
Easy make-ahead vegan dishes taste just as good, if not better, after a night in the fridge. Vegan casseroles, lasagna bakes, slow-cooker vegan chili and cold salads built around lentils, beans or roasted vegetables hold their shape and flavor without any last-minute prep. These kinds of make-ahead potluck recipes fit into your schedule without fuss.
What plant-based potluck recipes can I make for a main dish?
The best plant-based potluck recipes for main dishes should be wholesome enough to serve as the centerpiece and practical enough to prep ahead. Grain-heavy casseroles, vegetable skillets and mains with beans or nuts check all the boxes: they travel well, portion easily and don’t rely on last-minute garnishes. These vegan comfort food recipes are built for buffet tables, whether served warm or at room temperature.
