29 Labor Day Recipes My Neighbor’s Still Talking About

The cookout was weeks ago, yet folks are still chatting about those 29 Labor Day food wins like they just happened yesterday. Nobody remembers who won the beanbag toss, but the menu? Legendary status. People have been hinting about “doing it again soon” in that not-so-subtle way neighbors do when they’re fishing for an invite.

A peach-topped cheesecake on a beige plate, garnished with mint leaves, set on a light marble surface with sprigs of baby's breath flowers nearby. — Vegan No-Bake Cheesecake with Peaches (Gluten-Free). Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This post has affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you.

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Big flavors don’t need heavy dishes to stand out during gatherings. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps utilize simple ingredients to create light and fresh servings. Perfect for keeping guests engaged with something easy and still memorable. They’re a great addition for any table without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Strawberry Mochi

Strawberry ice cream with a slice cut out. — Strawberry Mochi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fun desserts have a way of becoming the talk of the party. Strawberry Mochi brings texture and sweetness together in a bite-sized treat. It’s different enough to grab attention while staying straightforward for those trying it. An easy dessert that feels special without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi

Vegan Onion Dip

Party dips can pack great flavor without feeling heavy. Vegan Onion Dip creates a creamy option that’s great for chips or veggies. It’s simple to make and works for both small gatherings or bigger parties. Affordable and easy enough for anyone to enjoy without too much cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Onion Dip

Pico de Gallo

Crowd-pleasing additions to meals keep people talking long after the party. Pico de Gallo brings fresh and bold flavors that fit with almost any dish on the table. It’s the kind of recipe that’s remembered for being simple but so useful on Labor Day menus. Great for pairing with chips or mains seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Close-up of several roasted sweet potato wedges on parchment paper, garnished with chopped herbs. — Baked Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Finger foods that feel polished without being fussy are always appreciated. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges fit right into any gathering, whether casual or bigger occasions. Easy to share and naturally flavorful, they’re a favorite at the table every time. Perfect for guests who want lighter but filling snacks.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Vegan Sugar Cookies

Close-up of six sugar-coated cookies on parchment paper. — Vegan Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sometimes a simple sweet treat becomes a hit all on its own. Vegan Sugar Cookies offer a familiar dessert that everyone can enjoy even with dietary restrictions. They’re easy to grab at parties and don’t rely on anything overly complicated to stand out. A dessert that’s comforting and memorable for all.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sugar Cookies

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

When snacks are both familiar and unique, they’re always worth mentioning after a party. Vegan Chicken Nuggets bring plant-based bites to gatherings with the same appeal as classic nuggets. They work well for casual meals or larger setups around finger food stations. Everyone appreciates them for their fun and universally loved shape.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

A glass jar of granola spills onto a surface next to a white bowl filled with blueberries. — Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Healthy but fun treats have a way of surprising guests. Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds mixes crunch and sweetness in a way that stands out. It’s a good alternative to heavier desserts or snacks while staying simple to make. A recipe that feels refreshing and still indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

Vegan Tortilla Chips

Close-up of crispy tortilla chips with a dollop of guacamole on top. — Vegan Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Chips that step up flavor make snack tables unforgettable. Vegan Tortilla Chips are a crunchy addition that keeps guests reaching for more. They’re easy to pair with dips or enjoy on their own during gatherings. A great fit for big groups looking for variety in appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

A skillet with melted cheese dip, garnished with dill. Celery and carrot sticks are on the side, next to a bowl of dipping sauce. — Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan Pasta Primavera

A colorful pasta salad with fusilli, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, peas, red onion, zucchini, and fresh basil leaves is served on a blue plate. — Vegan Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty dishes can shine during holiday meals without getting overly complex. Vegan Pasta Primavera brings fresh elements together in a plate that’s easy to share. It works well as both a main dish or something to complement other party recipes. A great choice for anyone looking for balance in big gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

Dips with bold flavors always bring attention to snack tables. Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip blends creamy texture with something exciting in every bite. Perfect with chips or veggies, it keeps people coming back for more during meals or gatherings. It’s memorable without being complicated to make.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

Vegan Apple Pie

Close-up of a baked pie with a golden brown lattice crust, revealing a caramelized filling underneath. — Vegan Apple Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Classic desserts done plant-based often steal the show at any event. Vegan Apple Pie takes a familiar favorite and turns it into something everyone can enjoy. Perfect for serving slices or as a centerpiece for holiday tables with guests. A recipe that keeps everyone happy without changing what they love about pie.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Pie

Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap

Light dishes don’t have to be boring at parties. Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap creates compact bites full of color and texture that people enjoy. It’s a quick recipe that’s great for making ahead and sharing across larger tables. Perfect for casual settings where finger foods shine brightest.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap

Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

Bite-sized desserts make entertaining so much easier. Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls deliver rich flavors in small portions, perfect for sharing. They’re easy to make ahead and great for keeping guests interested in lighter-sized treats. Ideal for casual or formal setups alike without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate. — Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Small salad options can carry big presence on shared tables. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad mixes texture and heartiness into a bowl full of flavor. Great for guests who love plant-based meals or simply lighter options. It’s versatile without feeling overly complicated or expensive.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Dairy-Free Ice Cream

A gold spoon scoops a portion of creamy, pale vanilla ice cream from a glass bowl. — Dairy-Free Ice Cream. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Frozen desserts always hold attention no matter the occasion. Dairy-Free Ice Cream is a creamy and cool option that’s easy to prep ahead of party time. It skips traditional recipes to focus on those needing alternative dessert options. Memorable enough that everyone keeps talking about it after the day ends.
Get the Recipe: Dairy-Free Ice Cream

Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets

A white bowl filled with golden-brown fritters sits on a wooden board next to a small dish of red dipping sauce and a white cloth in the background. — Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bite-sized snacks make celebrations better every single time. Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets offer a plant-based choice that complements other finger foods. They’re easy for people to grab without worrying about dietary preferences at the table. A hit for anyone who loves something light but fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets

The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of a vegan chocolate chip cookie on a piece of parchment paper, showcasing its delightful texture and rich chocolate chips. — The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Finger-friendly desserts work wonders at keeping crowds happy during events. The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies stay familiar with just enough twist to catch notice. Perfect for dessert stations or small casual setups during meals. A recipe that holds its place among classic party options every time.
Get the Recipe: The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them. — Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Noodle-based recipes are a smart way to fill plates during gatherings. Sesame Soba Noodles bring easy servings full of connection to familiar dishes. They’re great as sides or even light mains when guests want something refreshing. Affordable and easy to scale for larger groups.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli

A white bowl filled with breaded and fried mushroom pieces, with a fork holding one piece above the bowl. — Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan small bites turn into crowd-favorites with simple tweaks. Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli blend crunchy and creamy in an unforgettable pairing. They’re portable appetizers that work well in both casual or larger setups. Guests talk about these long after trying them for their balance of textures.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Breaded Mushrooms with Garlic Aioli

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

A plate of tacos with red cabbage and cauliflower slaw. — Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fun food stations are where favorites shine during parties. Roasted Cauliflower Tacos bring bold choices to tables without needing too much prep. The dish works for those who love smaller portions but want big flavor at every bite. Perfect for keeping options balanced during longer meal setups.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

A plate of watermelon salad with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves, served with a lime wedge. — Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fresh and unique recipes stand out amid classic holiday options. Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad mixes unexpected elements to create a vibrant serving bowl. Perfect for guests looking for lighter side options at shared tables. Unique enough to be mentioned long after guests first try it.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Vegan Pizza

Close-up of vegetable pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, zucchini, and red peppers on a baked crust, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegan Pizza. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Customizable recipes help manage everyone’s cravings at gatherings. Vegan Pizza lets people enjoy slices catered to dietary options without fuss. Works great for both small groups and larger formal parties needing universal favorites. A staple dish that fits into almost any event type perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Elegant yet simple plates steal attention on buffet lines. Blood Orange and Fennel Salad mixes citrus tastes with something unexpected but seamless. A good fit to complement most main dishes without overpowering them at the table. Keeps smaller setups interesting enough to earn compliments after meals.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Guacamole

Build-your-own stations wouldn’t be the same without something essential. Guacamole adds creamy deliciousness to chip baskets or side plate toppings in seconds. Easy to adjust for parties wanting smaller or bigger servings at snack stops. Known for being reliably loved anywhere it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A bowl of fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs, seasoned with black pepper, with a serving spoon. — Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lighter, refreshing options often balance tables loaded with heavier dishes. Cucumber Tomato Salad mixes simple fresh flavors into bowls perfect for group servings. Ready to stand as either a side dish or part of an appetizer plate anywhere. Keeps gatherings relaxed without needing much effort behind the scenes.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Ultimate Vegan Burger

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bold centerpiece dishes for gatherings don’t have to rely on meat-based options. Ultimate Vegan Burger stacks plant-based ingredients into something worth plating. Great for casual days where everyone wants classic food without restrictions. Shows just how popular and adaptable burgers can be beyond traditional recipes.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Egg Rolls

Crispy appetizers add variety to snack trays during holidays. Egg Rolls bring texture with just enough flavor to pair with sauces at smaller tables. Easier to serve than bigger handheld dishes around crowded setups, they’re loved for their balance of taste. Well-known enough to stay popular no matter the event size.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Vegan No-Bake Cheesecake with Peaches (Gluten-Free)

No-bake recipes make desserts feel effortless for entertaining. Vegan No-Bake Cheesecake with Peaches blends fruity elements into a dinner-ready table centerpiece. Perfect on sunny days or at shaded setups alike with polished appeal. Keeps dessert easy but still memorable enough to share widely.
Get the Recipe: Vegan No-Bake Cheesecake with Peaches (Gluten-Free)