March Madness snack ideas for everyone [Updated 2023]

Is your March Madness snack game ready?

We've added five (5) more March Madness Snack Ideas for 2023

You've got hungry mouths to feed, and as this year's party host, your snacking decisions could lead your party to be a hit or a bust. You have to consider food intolerances to things like gluten or dairy while also accommodating vegan and vegetarian diets. And most important of all, the food has to actually taste good!

But fear not, my newbie host, for we have scoured the best and most inclusive March Madness recipes across the globe — and added a few favorites from our team — to ensure your party is as glorious as a freshly-forged game day ring.

 

The best March Madness snack ideas that have a little something for everyone!

1. Vegan Jerky (New!)

Try plant-based jerky made from mushrooms, soy, or seitan for a meaty snack that's rich in protein. Marinate and dehydrate to create a chewy, jerky-like texture. This jerky is a protein-rich snack that can be a satisfying and flavorful alternative to meat-based jerky. 

 

2. Spicy Kale Chips (New!)

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Make kale chips by seasoning kale with hot sauce or chili powder and baking until crispy. Remove the stems and preheat your oven to 350°F. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Drizzle the kale with a small amount of oil, then sprinkle with your desired spices. Toss the kale to coat evenly, then place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until crispy. Enjoy as a healthy and flavorful snack for everyone!

 

3. Energy balls (New!)

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Mix together dates, nuts, and other dried fruits for a tasty and nutrient-dense snack. To make energy balls, combine pitted dates, nuts, and other ingredients like cocoa powder, coconut flakes, or chia seeds in a food processor. Process until the ingredients come together and form a sticky dough. Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate until firm. Energy balls are a tasty snack that can be customized with your favorite flavors and ingredients (and something everyone enjoys).

 

4. Baked plantain chips (New!)

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Thinly slice plantains and bake them in the oven until crispy for a sweet and satisfying snack that's high in fiber and nutrients. You can also season them with spices like chili powder or cinnamon for a flavorful twist. Dip them in the veggie dip listed below as #6.

 

5. Cucumber Bites (New!)

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

What the heck is a cucumber bite is something you might be asking! Cucumber bites are a low-calorie snack that's perfect for a nail-biting fourth-quarter comeback (or anytime you're looking for a refreshing and crunchy snack). To make cucumber bites, simply slice a cucumber into rounds of your desired thickness, then add a dollop of hummus, guacamole, or another favorite topping onto each round. You can also add other toppings, such as sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, or roasted red peppers.

 

6. Veggie Chips and Dip

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

This is a delicious and healthy plant-based alternative to greasy potato chips that anyone can enjoy. With this delectable recipe, you get a ton of different options for crispy, baked vegetables like yellow summer squash, beets, and zucchini. For the dip, you'll blend peas, chives, vegan mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt to create a mouthwatering dip that's sure to impress.

source: https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/homemade-veggie-chips-and-dip

 

7. Gluten-Free Pigs In A Blanket

Why? Gluten-free, Vegetarian, Vegan

Nothing says 'game day' like pigs in a blanket. With more people conscious about their gluten intake, it's great to know that you can still enjoy this simple pleasure while keeping gluten intolerances in mind. Gluten-free flour and cocktail weenies combined with some delicious seasonings make the base of this March Madness favorite. And don’t forget — Lightlife Smart Dogs can be substituted for the animal-based cocktail weenies. Just make sure to save some for your guests, ok?

More info: https://glutenfreeonashoestring.com/gluten-free-finger-food-pigs-in-a-blanket/

 

8. Crispy Baked Gluten-free Buffalo Wings

Why? Dairy-free (dip), Gluten-free,

Wings are a staple at any party, so we had to include them on this list! Not only are these wings gluten-free, but they tend to lack the grease that traditional deep-fried wings have. Plus, you'll be making a homemade buffalo sauce with plenty of kick that can be prepared dairy-free if you substitute the normal butter for an avocado oil-based alternative.

More info: https://athomewithshay.com/crispy-baked-gluten-free-buffalo-wings/

 

9. BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Cauliflower wings help to deliver the wing experience without the meat. These are packed with flavor and can be made with either brown rice flour or chickpea flour. If you're looking for a bit more kick than the BBQ sauce will provide, try this spicy vegan buffalo sauce. Fair warning — it's pretty hot!

More info: https://healthiersteps.com/recipe/barbecue-cauliflower-wings-vegan-gluten-free/

 

10. Black Bean Sliders

Why? Vegetarian

Mini burgers for all! For fans of store-bought black bean burgers, these are an excellent alternative since you can make them yourself in a miniature size. They're the perfect size for adult snacking or kid-approved meals. Be warned — however many you think you should make, consider doubling that. Your guests will go crazy for these bite-sized black bean burgers.

More info: https://bakedbree.com/black-bean-sliders

 

11. Roasted Chickpeas

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free

Roasted chickpeas always seem to run out first — people can't seem to get enough of them! This is also one of the easiest recipes to make because it only requires three basic ingredients at a minimum: olive oil, sea salt, and of course, super-tasty chickpeas! A few handfuls of these easily edible snacks will have your hunger at bay well before kickoff.

Pro Tip: We Love them with curry powder!

More info: https://www.loveandlemons.com/roasted-chickpeas/

 

12. Almond Flour Brownies

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Gluten-free

You know who loves brownies? Just about everyone. Using dairy-free chocolate helps keep lactose intolerances in check while also giving your vegan guests a sweet and savory treat. In fact, we'd bet an easy first-down that your guests won't even notice how allergy-friendly these are!

More info: https://flippindelicious.com/2016/08/gluten-free-chewy-dark-chocolate-brownies-dairy-free.html

 

13. Vegan Bacon Cheese Fries

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

This is one of the most surprising recipes we've ever seen. The 'bacon' is made from seasoned cashews and the 'cheese' is made from yellow squash! It's one of the most creative ways to present vegan-friendly dishes and makes an excellent addition to your game day smorgasbord.

More info: https://www.karissasvegankitchen.com/vegan-bacon-cheese-fries/

 

14. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pinwheels

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

There's sometimes a difference between good food and food that looks good. This pinwheel recipe is both. Vegan cheeses meet sun-dried tomatoes in a soft tortilla generously seasoned with the right amount of basil. While this receipt calls for them to be eaten without being cooked, we won't be mad if you decide to toast them up in the oven for a bit of added texture.

More info: https://minimalistbaker.com/sun-dried-tomato-and-basil-pinwheels/

 

15. Vegan Nacho Cheese Chips

Why? Dairy-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Mmmm...nacho cheese-flavored tortilla chips. Beloved by gamers of all types, this is a new vegan-friendly take on a delicious snack enjoyed by snack enthusiasts all around the world. The mini street-style corn tortillas serve as the base for a mater-watering concoction of spices and seasonings. Be sure to grab plenty of napkins — the messy fingertips are here to stay.

More info: https://strengthandsunshine.com/healthy-homemade-vegan-doritos-nacho-cheese-gluten-free-allergy-free/

 

Get Ready for Game Day

With these delicious and inclusive snacks, your March Madness party will be remembered for years to come. It’s also a good idea to include some fresh fruits and veggies to balance things out.

And for the dessert-cravers, you can never go wrong with The Complete Cookie® White Chocolaty Macadamia or The Complete Cremes® which are available in both chocolate and vanilla.