Healthy and Delicious Snack Ideas for Garden Parties

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes all the garden parties, barbecues, and outdoor entertainment. Whether you’re planning on preparing the party of the season, or casual get-togethers with family and friends, healthy appetizers will always go down a treat. They’re tasty, guilt-free, and perfect light bites for the hot weather. If you’re wanting to keep things lighter this summer and avoid over-indulging whilst still having fun, here are some of the best healthy appetizer ideas. Yummy, light and perfect for pleasing a crowd, you’ll be serving up these recipes over and over again at your garden parties.

Crispy Parmesan Chickpeas:

Chickpeas are the perfect snack – they’re full of healthy nutrients, high in protein and healthy fats, and full of fiber – and incredibly tasty, too! You will need:

• 1 15oz can of chickpeas (unsalted)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp grated lemon rind
• ½ kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper

To prepare this recipe, first drain and rinse the chickpeas before using a paper towel to pat them dry. They need to be as dry as possible so that they’ll go nice and crispy later on. Then, heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over a medium to high heat. Add the chickpeas and cook for around 15 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown all over. Move the chickpeas to a bowl and add the remaining ingredients, tossing gently. Serve immediately or cool and serve later.

Cucumber Feta Rolls:

Light and refreshing, these are perfect for a hot day. You’ll need:

• 4oz crumbled feta
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp chopped sundried tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chopped Kalamata olives
• 2 tbsp chopped roasted red peppers
• 1 tbsp chopped oregano or dill
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced lengthwise

Combine the feta and yogurt, before mixing in the tomatoes, olives, peppers and lemon juice. Place 1 tbsp of the mixture onto a slice of cucumber before rolling up and securing with a cocktail stick. These really durable walnut serving trays are absolutely perfect for these appetizers!

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites:

Crispy and spicy, buffalo cauliflower is a huge hit with vegans – and the perfect healthy snack for a warm day. You’ll need:

• Medium cauliflower cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup flour
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp melted butter or dairy-free substitute
• 2/3 cup buffalo hot sauce

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees and pre-grease a large cooking tray. In a large bowl, combine the water, flour, garlic, salt and pepper. Add the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly with the mixture. Spread evenly onto the cooking tray and bake for 15 minutes, turning half-way. Then, stir together the butter and buffalo sauce in a separate bowl. Add the baked cauliflower and coat, then return the cauliflower to the cooking tray and bake for a further 25-30 minutes, turning half-way again. Allow to sit for around 10 minutes before serving with your favorite sauce.

What are your favorite summer appetizers?