Vegan Middle Eastern Menu for a Cocktail Party
15–80 guests · early evening · semi-formal
Overview
A vegan middle eastern cocktail party is a specific brief with specific answers. Vegan party food has had a decade of serious development. The best vegan entertaining draws on Middle Eastern, South Asian, and East Asian traditions that were never built around animal products to begin with. Combined with a middle eastern approach, you get a menu that: naturally halal; generous portions.
What to Avoid
- all animal products
- dairy
- eggs
- honey
Menu Ideas
The following dishes from middle eastern cooking work well for this combination:
- kebabs — Note: avoid all animal products and dairy in preparation.
- mujaddara — Naturally compatible with vegan requirements.
- ma'amoul — Naturally compatible with vegan requirements.
Drinks Pairing
Cocktails, wine, sparkling water. For vegan guests, verify all drinks are compatible — particularly wines (some contain dairy-based fining agents) and cocktails with cream liqueurs.
Quantity Guide
For a cocktail party of 15–80 people: plan $18–$55 per head for food, which should comfortably cover a two-course meal or a substantial buffet. For exact piece counts, use the Portion Calculator.
Make-Ahead Notes
Middle Eastern food for a cocktail party responds well to advance preparation. I would schedule two cooking sessions: one 2–3 days before the event for any braises, sauces, or baked elements; one the morning of the event for final seasoning, garnishes, and anything that needs a fresh component.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best vegan middle eastern dishes for a cocktail party?For a vegan middle eastern cocktail party, focus on dishes that are naturally vegan rather than adapted ones. Naturally halal. Many dishes vegan and GF. Labneh is the one dairy linchpin.
- How much food do I need for a cocktail party of 80 people?For a cocktail party of this size, plan for 23–55 dollars per head for food. The specific quantities depend on whether you are serving a buffet or seated format. Use our portion calculator for exact numbers.
- Can I make middle eastern food ahead for a cocktail party?Yes — most middle eastern dishes are excellent made ahead. Prepare sauces and braises 1–2 days before; finish and reheat on the day.