I’ve created a little entertaining guide to help you throw a memorable fete. A cocktail party 101, if you will, where I answer your most frequent questions: what to serve, how many apps per person, what about drinks, and of course, everything you need to serve the ultimate cheese plate!

THE ART OF THE COCKTAIL PARTY

With so many folks embracing different diets these days, its easy to get overwhelmed trying to accommodate everyone at your party..or not!

One thing everyone has in common in their diet, whether they realize it or not, is plant based foods. Throwing a vegan cocktail party is actually an easy way to bring people closer together. For starters, no one needs to worry about whether they can eat something or not. It’s also more economical for the host. And if you’re worried you don’t know enough vegan recipes, think again. Most of the snacks, dips, spreads and condiments are vegetable based and those that include mayo and dairy are an easy sub. So let’s get started!

DON’T LABEL

When inviting guests, don’t emphasize that the menu is vegan. We tend to judge labels. Instead, let the food speak for itself. Plant-based cuisine is made up of the foods we all eat and love: vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, beans, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices, and all the flavor, texture, and color needed to satisfy all of our taste buds.

WHEN I DIP, YOU DIP, WE DIP

Have fun with your dips, spreads, sauces and condiments. Most of the condiments we eat are naturally vegan, so use them to flavor or complement your dishes. Vinegar and lemon juice perk up veggie and pasta salads, mustard and barbeque sauce create tangy marinades, and everyone loves a delicious hummus, salsa and guacamole– just make sure to put out a variety of veggies, chips and crackers!

SERVE SEASONAL
Each season offers a bounty of veggies. The spectrum of colors will dazzle your guests and create a visually enticing buffet, it will also leave them satisfied and clamoring for your recipes. Just remember to count about eight appetizers per person when you’re not serving a meal.

DRAAANKS. It wouldn’t be a cocktail party without a few cocktails, now would it? To keep things simple, create a cocktail list with no more than 3 drinks for the occasion. Otherwise, you will be stuck behind the bar all night. To make things even easier, create a signature punch for the evening. Not only will you get to enjoy the party with your guests, you’ll also create a more communal vibe by sipping punch with each other rather than with everyone having a different cocktail.

THINK LOGISTICS.

Be sure to have plenty of small plates and napkins for your guests. Arrange them by the crudité or cheese platter to encourage guests to make up plates and enjoy them standing up.

Hopefully, these tips have got your party started!  In Cocktail Party 101, Part II we talk about what will complete your perfect cocktail party… a VEGAN CHEESE BOARD!