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!
1. Gumbo Dip
All the flavors of Gumbo melted into a dip! Serve this yummy appetizer with corn chips or crackers.
2. Pineapple Black Bean Salsa
The colors are perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras! This tastes great with shrimp or fish.
3. Buttery Cajun Popcorn
All you have to do to make this heavenly treat is to sprinkle popcorn with Cajun seasoning.
4. The Best Beignets
It wouldn't be a Mardi Gras party without beignets, right?
5. Pomegranate Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are great for any party, but the color of these make them perfect for Mardi Gras.
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.
8. Muffaletta
This classic sandwich is so tasty! Once you have one bite, you won't be able to stop eating.
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.
10. Mardi Gras Chex Mix
A classic snack gets a Mardi Gras twist with purple and green add-ins. Yum!
11. King Cake Pancakes
Start your Mardi Gras morning off right with a towering plate of green, purple and yellow pancakes.
12. Easy King Cake Knots
These little bites are so addicting! They're fun to look at too, aren't they?
13. Emeril's New Orleans Shrimp Melt
Emeril is the king of Cajun cooking so you know this one is going to be good.
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.
15. Hush Puppies
These are pretty easy to make and are a definite crowd pleaser.
16. Mardi Gras Shooters
The mixture of grits, shrimp and sausage make these little shooters a great way to start a meal.
17. Crawfish Cornbread
Take cornbread to the next level by adding crawfish meat to the mix. Tasty!
18. Red Beans and Rice Dip
Red beans and rice is something that is so Southern, but turning it into dip is genius!
19. Cream Cheese Praline King Cake
End your meal just right by serving this twist on the classic king cake.
20. King Cake Jello Shots
Really get the party started by serving some these. They look fantastic, don't they?
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?
24. Muffaletta Bites
No one is going to be able to turn these down. That means you should make lots and lots of them.
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?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some traditional Mardi Gras foods?
- Classic Mardi Gras foods include king cake, jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets.
- Can I find vegetarian options for Mardi Gras?
- Yes, dishes like vegetarian gumbo and stuffed bell peppers make delicious meat-free Mardi Gras meals.
- What is king cake and how is it served?
- King cake is a sweet, colorful pastry often filled with cinnamon and topped with icing and sugar, traditionally served at Mardi Gras celebrations.
- Are there easy-to-make Mardi Gras snacks?
- Absolutely! Cheese straws, mini po'boys, and spicy nuts are quick and tasty options.
- How can I add a festive touch to my Mardi Gras menu?
- Use colorful servings, themed decorations, and incorporate green, purple, and gold ingredients or garnishes.
- What drinks pair well with Mardi Gras food?
- Classic cocktails like Hurricanes, Sazeracs, or refreshing non-alcoholic mocktails complement the spicy flavors well.
- Is beignet dough difficult to make from scratch?
- Beignet dough can be simple with basic ingredients, but using a recipe with clear instructions helps achieve the perfect airy texture.
- Can Mardi Gras foods be made ahead of time?
- Many dishes like jambalaya and gumbo actually taste better made ahead, allowing flavors to meld overnight.
- What are some kid-friendly Mardi Gras treats?
- Mini king cakes, colorful cupcakes, and simple snacks like flavored popcorn are sure to delight kids.
- How do I store leftovers from Mardi Gras dishes?
- Store most foods in airtight containers in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for freshness.