Of course, we go to parties to see friends, but let’s be real: We’re also there for the apps. Snacks are a highlight of any gathering, especially when everyone can enjoy them. These days, you likely have a friend who skips grains and another who’s strictly plant-based, which can make it tricky to cater to every dietary preference. So we’ve rounded up the best gluten-free, dairy-free appetizers to share.

A grazing table lets guests mix and match flavors and textures and build their plates however they please. While there are countless starter options, I keep a go-to list of foolproof favorites that are easy to prepare, great at room temperature, and as nourishing as they are delicious. Most of these recipes need just a few ingredients, take 20 minutes or less, and work for guests avoiding gluten and dairy.

Scroll on for the best gluten-free, dairy-free appetizers to bring to your next party.

Find the Right Appetizer

Holiday Party: Charred Eggplant Dip With Sesame Chili Oil · Bhutta Street Corn Guacamole · Roasted Delicata Squash

Dinner Party: Spring Crudité With Green Goddess Dressing · Tomato, Nectarine, & Halloumi Salad With Basil & Jalapeño · Charred Cabbage With Cashew Cream · Pea Gazpacho

Make-Ahead: Green Chutney · Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette · Roasted Cauliflower Salad

20-Minute: Shishito Peppers With Romesco Lemon & Herbs · Zucchini Ribbon Salad

Room Temperature: Marinated Olives With Hummus · The Whole Stalk or Bulb Salad · Charred Corn and Stone Fruit Salad With Feta

A Note for Hosting

When you’re hosting guests with different dietary needs, a little thoughtful prep goes a long way. Keep gluten-free and dairy-free appetizers on separate platters, give each dish its own serving utensil to avoid cross-contact, and double-check labels on packaged ingredients like crackers, sauces, and broths. If a guest has an allergy or a specific restriction, it’s always worth asking what they’re comfortable with before you serve.

Zucchini Ribbon Salad

Fresh, delicate zucchini ribbons come together in this light and flavorful salad that celebrates simple, seasonal ingredients. Crisp, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant, it’s the perfect side dish for warm-weather dinners or easy entertaining.

Charred Cabbage with Cashew Cream

Crispy, caramelized edges and a tender center make this charred cabbage anything but ordinary. Simple ingredients and bold flavors transform this humble vegetable into a delicious side dish that might just steal the show.

Pea Gazpacho

Cool, refreshing, and bursting with fresh spring flavors, this vibrant pea gazpacho is a delicious twist on the classic chilled soup. Light yet satisfying, it’s an easy make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for warm days, effortless entertaining, or a fresh start to any meal.

Charred Corn and Stone Fruit Salad with Feta

Sweet, juicy stone fruit meets smoky charred corn in this colorful summer salad. Bursting with fresh flavors and seasonal ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish for outdoor gatherings, easy dinners, or making the most of summer produce.

The Whole Stalk or Bulb Salad

This fresh, crunchy whole-stalk salad makes the most of simple ingredients for a vibrant, veggie-packed dish. Light, flavorful, and full of texture, it’s an easy way to bring something fresh and nourishing to the table.

Tomato, Nectarine, & Halloumi Salad with Basil & Jalapeño

Crispy, golden halloumi meets creamy avocado, crunchy cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a tangy shallot vinaigrette in this vibrant salad. Fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor, it’s an easy vegetarian recipe you’ll want to make on repeat.

Roasted Cauliflower Salad

This roasted cauliflower salad is a flavor-packed bowl, featuring caramelized cauliflower, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. It’s the perfect appetizer for those seeking a healthy, crowd-pleasing option that isn’t a bore. 
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This crunchy shaved Brussels sprouts salad is a crisp, refreshing appetizer tossed with nuts, herbs, and a bright lemon vinaigrette.
Dietary Note: Gluten-free as written. For dairy-free, omit the Parmesan.

Roasted Delicata Squash

Sweet, caramelized delicata squash gets perfectly crisp in the oven for a simple seasonal appetizer. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing way to bring fall flavor to the table.
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Shishito Peppers With Romesco, Lemon & Herbs

Blistered shishito peppers meet a smoky romesco sauce in this simple, flavor-packed appetizer. Finished with fresh lemon and herbs, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes.
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Spring Crudité with Green Goddess Dressing

If you’re craving color, fresh flavor, and veggies, this spring crudité platter delivers on all counts. You’re welcome to serve the vibrant, verdant green goddess dressing with any mix of raw and/or roasted veggies of your choosing. Need a little guidance? The more your platter mimics the rainbow, the better.
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Bhutta Street Corn Guacamole

There’s always room for guacamole on the menu—particularly one that brings a whole host of flavor to our favorite classic app. Healthy fat-filled avocados, roasted corn, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a blend of just-hot-enough spices. What’s not to love?
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Charred Eggplant Dip With Sesame Chili Oil

Smoky, creamy, and packed with flavor, this charred eggplant dip gets a spicy kick from sesame chili oil. Serve it with fresh veggies or gluten-free crackers for an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free. Check the chili oil label for gluten-containing additives.

Marinated Olives with Hummus

Briny, citrusy marinated olives pair with creamy hummus for an effortless appetizer that’s packed with Mediterranean flavor. Serve with fresh veggies or gluten-free crackers for an easy make-ahead bite.
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

Green Chutney

Bright, herby, and packed with fresh flavor, this green chutney comes together with cilantro, mint, and a kick of heat. Serve it as a vibrant dip with fresh veggies or gluten-free crackers.
Dietary note: Naturally gluten- and dairy-free.

This post was last updated on October 9, 2026 to include new insights.