Mardi Gras is coming, which means parties are going to be happening all over the place. Whether you're hosting or attending, finding fun foods that fit the theme is super easy and a great way to make the event more festive. At the same time, each item on this list tastes great and will make everyone happy. Go ahead and try them all if you have time and you're really hungry. You won't be disappointed with any of them. Happy eating!
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1. Gumbo Dip
All the flavors of Gumbo melted into a dip! Serve this yummy appetizer with corn chips or crackers.
Gumbo Dip is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations. This dip combines the flavors of New Orleans-style gumbo, including okra, celery, onions, garlic, and spices, into a smooth, creamy dip. It can be served with corn chips or crackers, making it a great snack for any party. The dip is also vegan-friendly and can be made in just 15 minutes. Try this flavorful and festive dip for your next Mardi Gras gathering!
2. Pineapple Black Bean Salsa
The colors are perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras! This tastes great with shrimp or fish.
Adding a tropical twist to your Mardi Gras menu might just be the refreshing contrast you need against richer, heavier dishes. This Pineapple Black Bean Salsa is not only visually stunning, but it is also packed with flavor. The sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the earthiness of black beans, while peppers and onions give it a kick that will have your taste buds dancing. Serve this as a topping for grilled chicken or as a standalone side with tortilla chips. It's a delightful way to incorporate healthy and hearty ingredients into your carnival feast.
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3. Buttery Cajun Popcorn
All you have to do to make this heavenly treat is to sprinkle popcorn with Cajun seasoning.
Cajun cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, making it the perfect addition to any Mardi Gras celebration. Buttery Cajun popcorn is a simple yet delicious snack that is sure to please your guests. The recipe calls for sprinkling popcorn with Cajun seasoning, which typically includes a blend of spices such as cayenne pepper, garlic, and paprika. This dish is a great alternative to traditional buttered popcorn and is a healthier option as well. It's also a great way to add some New Orleans flair to your Mardi Gras menu without having to spend hours in the kitchen. So grab a bowl of this tasty treat and join in on the festivities!
4. The Best Beignets
It wouldn't be a Mardi Gras party without beignets, right?
These pillowy squares of fried dough are dusted with a generous coating of powdered sugar, and they have a certain joie de vivre that's unmistakable. Originating from France and perfected in New Orleans, they're a Mardi Gras must-have that will delight your guests. Be sure to serve them warm for that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pair them with a chicory coffee for the authentic Café du Monde vibe. Trust us, you'll have everyone singing "laissez les bons temps rouler" as they savor each blissful bite!
5. Pomegranate Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are great for any party, but the color of these make them perfect for Mardi Gras.
Pomegranate Deviled Eggs are a delicious dish for a Mardi Gras celebration. They are easy to make and require only a few ingredients: hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, pomegranate molasses, and fresh herbs. The pomegranate molasses gives the deviled eggs a rich, sweet flavor, while the herbs add a touch of freshness. To make the deviled eggs, simply slice the eggs in half, scoop out the yolks, and mix them with the mayonnaise, mustard, pomegranate molasses, and herbs. Then, pipe the mixture back into the egg whites and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve these colorful deviled eggs as a tasty appetizer at your Mardi Gras celebration.
6. Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Melted white chocolate and purple, green and yellow sprinkles are all you need to make these fantastic treats. Kids love them!
7. CROCODILE NUTTER BUTTER Friends
These are a fun Cajun inspired treat for little ones. Especially the ones who aren't willing to try real alligator meat.
These are a fun Cajun inspired treat for little ones. Especially the ones who aren't willing to try real alligator meat. Delicately decorated with green icing to mimic the look of a crocodile, these cookies offer a playful and sweet experience. Made from Nutter Butter cookies and creatively adorned with candy eyes, they not only taste delicious but also capture the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Perfect for a party platter, these whimsical treats are sure to be a hit among kids and adults alike. Serve them alongside other Mardi Gras-themed snacks for a complete celebration.
8. Muffaletta
This classic sandwich is so tasty! Once you have one bite, you won't be able to stop eating.
Muffaletta is a classic sandwich from the Italian-American cuisine. It is a round, flat Italian bread loaf, split horizontally and filled with a variety of deli meats, cheeses, and a delicious olive salad. The olive salad is made with a combination of olives, celery, carrots, capers, and oregano, and is dressed with a flavorful vinaigrette.
The sandwich originated in New Orleans, Louisiana, and is traditionally served as part of a Mardi Gras celebration. It is a popular dish in the city and is served in many restaurants and eateries. The sandwich can also be found in Italian-American delis and grocery stores across the country.
Muffaletta is a hearty and filling sandwich that can be served as a main dish or as a snack. It is a great way to get your protein and vegetables in one meal. It is also a great option for a picnic or party, as it can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature.
9. Crab Dip on Crackers
Lots of Creole food stars seafood and this crab dip is no exception. It's loaded with great flavors for Mardi Gras.
This Crab Dip on Crackers is a great addition to any Mardi Gras celebration. It's a traditional Creole dish that is full of flavor and is made with fresh crab meat. The dip is made with mayonnaise, cream cheese, lemon juice, and seasonings. It's best served with crackers or toasted French bread. This dish is sure to be a hit at any Mardi Gras party!
10. Mardi Gras Chex Mix
A classic snack gets a Mardi Gras twist with purple and green add-ins. Yum!
This scrumptious party mix takes inspiration from the traditional Mardi Gras colors, adding a festive touch to any celebration. Think pretzels, cereal, and nuts tossed with buttery seasoning before being given a carnival makeover. Drizzles of white chocolate dyed with vivid purples and greens, combined with an assortment of sprinkles, will make this treat the life of the party. It's the perfect balance of sweet and salty, ensuring that this snack won’t last long on the table. Get ready for guests to be reaching for seconds (and thirds!) while they enjoy the parade of flavors.
11. King Cake Pancakes
Start your Mardi Gras morning off right with a towering plate of green, purple and yellow pancakes.
These colorful pancakes capture the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras in every bite. Drizzled with a sweet icing and a sprinkle of sparkling sugar, they aren't just a feast for the taste buds; they're a treat for the eyes too. Embrace the tradition by hiding a tiny plastic baby or a pecan inside one of the stacks—the lucky finder is said to enjoy good fortune for the year. Pair them with a chicory coffee or your favorite morning beverage, and let the good times roll right from breakfast!
12. Easy King Cake Knots
These little bites are so addicting! They're fun to look at too, aren't they?
Who knew that a twist on the traditional Mardi Gras favorite could be so easy to make and irresistible to eat? These Easy King Cake Knots capture all the delicious essence of a classic king cake — cinnamon, sugar, and that signature hint of lemon — in adorable, poppable form. Perfect for sharing, they're guaranteed to disappear from the platter as quickly as they are to prepare. Just dust them with some purple, green, and gold sugar, and you've got a festive treat that will keep everyone reaching for more! 🎉
13. Emeril's New Orleans Shrimp Melt
Emeril is the king of Cajun cooking so you know this one is going to be good.
This tantalizing handheld treat packs a punch with plump, juicy shrimp smothered in a melange of cheeses that melt in your mouth. Emeril's signature spices add just the right amount of heat, creating a symphony of flavors that'll get your taste buds marching in a Mardi Gras parade. And let's not forget the perfectly toasted bread that encases all that gooey goodness – it's the essential touch that elevates this melt from simply satisfying to utterly unforgettable. Perfect for a casual gathering or to spice up a solo lunch, it's a bite-sized piece of New Orleans you can savor right at home.
14. Creole Stuffed Mushrooms
These tiny little bites are so yummy. The filling is just the right mix of creaminess with flavor that can't be beat.
These Creole Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized treat for your Mardi Gras celebration. Made with a blend of cream cheese, Creole seasoning, and fresh herbs, these flavorful mushrooms are sure to be a hit. They can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish. For an extra boost of flavor, top them with some grated Parmesan cheese. Serve them warm for the best taste and texture. For a vegan option, use vegan cream cheese and vegan Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
15. Hush Puppies
These are pretty easy to make and are a definite crowd pleaser.
Savory, crispy on the outside, and soft in the center, Hush Puppies are the soulful little cornmeal balls that pair perfectly with a festive Mardi Gras feast. With simple ingredients like cornmeal, flour, and spices, these golden nuggets are fried to perfection and can be whipped up in no time. Add a little Creole seasoning for an extra kick, and serve them hot with a side of remoulade or a spicy dipping sauce for that authentic Southern charm. Guests will be lining up for seconds, so make sure you have plenty to go around!
16. Mardi Gras Shooters
The mixture of grits, shrimp and sausage make these little shooters a great way to start a meal.
Mardi Gras Shooters are a popular dish served during the festive season of Mardi Gras. This traditional New Orleans dish is made with a mixture of grits, shrimp, and sausage, creating a flavorful and hearty appetizer. The dish is typically served in small glasses or shot glasses, making it a fun and unique way to start a meal. Grits, a staple in Southern cuisine, are made from ground corn and add a creamy texture to the dish. The addition of shrimp and sausage adds a savory and spicy kick, making it a perfect representation of the bold flavors of Mardi Gras. This dish is not only delicious, but also a great way to introduce guests to the flavors of New Orleans cuisine.
17. Crawfish Cornbread
Take cornbread to the next level by adding crawfish meat to the mix. Tasty!
Crawfish Cornbread is a popular dish often served during Mardi Gras celebrations in the southern United States. This savory cornbread is made by adding crawfish meat, a staple ingredient in Cajun cuisine, to the traditional cornbread mix. The result is a flavorful and moist cornbread with a hint of spice. Crawfish, also known as crayfish, are freshwater crustaceans that are typically found in Louisiana and other southern states. They are a local delicacy and are often used in a variety of dishes, including cornbread, gumbo, and etouffee. Adding crawfish to cornbread is a delicious way to incorporate this regional ingredient into a classic dish.
18. Red Beans and Rice Dip
Red beans and rice is something that is so Southern, but turning it into dip is genius!
This Red Beans and Rice Dip is a delicious and easy dish to serve for Mardi Gras. It's a great way to combine classic Southern flavors and modernize them. The dip consists of cooked red beans, cooked white rice, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's a great option for a party appetizer or as a side dish. The dip can be served with chips, crackers, or even as a topping for nachos. It's a flavorful and colorful option that everyone will love.
19. Cream Cheese Praline King Cake
End your meal just right by serving this twist on the classic king cake.
Indulge your sweet tooth with the Cream Cheese Praline King Cake, an irresistible Southern delight that combines the smooth texture of cream cheese with the rich, buttery flavor of praline. This decadent dessert adds a touch of elegance to traditional Mardi Gras festivities. Whether you're throwing a lavish party or having a cozy gathering, this cake is sure to be a showstopper. Remember to hide a little plastic baby inside the cake; tradition holds that the person who finds it will be granted luck and is responsible for hosting the next party!
20. King Cake Jello Shots
Really get the party started by serving some these. They look fantastic, don't they?
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In addition to being a fun and festive treat for Mardi Gras celebrations, King Cake Jello Shots are also easy to make and can be customized to fit any party theme. They typically consist of a mixture of flavored gelatin, vodka, and condensed milk, and are served in small cups or shot glasses. For an extra touch of Mardi Gras spirit, you can top them with colorful sprinkles or a small plastic baby figurine, representing the traditional hidden prize in a traditional King Cake. These jello shots are sure to be a hit at any Mardi Gras party!
21. Creole Okra
It wouldn't be Mardi Gras without a hefty serving of okra. I love it!
22. Crab and Avocado Nachos
Not only do these have a Creole flair, but the colors are perfect for Mardi Gras.
23. Cajun Chicken Fritters with Creole Mustard Dipping Sauce
So much Creole in each bite! What could be more perfect for this year's Mardi Gras celebration?
Cajun Chicken Fritters with Creole Mustard Dipping Sauce are a popular dish in Louisiana, especially during Mardi Gras celebrations. These fritters are made with a combination of Cajun spices and chicken, giving them a flavorful and spicy kick. The Creole Mustard Dipping Sauce adds a tangy and creamy element to balance out the heat. This dish is typically served as an appetizer or snack, but can also be enjoyed as a main course. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for any Mardi Gras party or gathering. Other popular Cajun dishes for Mardi Gras include gumbo, jambalaya, and king cake.
24. Muffaletta Bites
No one is going to be able to turn these down. That means you should make lots and lots of them.
Muffaletta Bites are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the classic Mardi Gras flavors without all the fuss. These bite-sized treats are made with a combination of olives, cheeses, and Italian deli meats, all piled onto a mini roll. The combination of flavors is sure to be a hit with your guests.
These Muffaletta Bites are incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for a stress-free party. Simply mix together the olives, cheeses, and meats and pile onto the mini rolls. Bake until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Muffaletta Bites are the perfect appetizer for a Mardi Gras celebration. They are easy to make and can be served as a snack or a meal. They are also a great way to use up leftover deli meats and cheeses. The combination of flavors is sure to be a hit with your guests.
25. Mardi Gras Cupcakes
What could be more perfect for ending a meal than these great colorful cupcakes?
How do you celebrate Mardi Gras? I plan to make some fun snacks with my kids and relax. What other snacks would you recommend this year?
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