Graduation Party Food Ideas

Celebrating graduations should be a happy time. However, for many people this celebratory time can be filled with extra stress. Included in this post are tips to help conquer common challenges and Graduation Party Food Ideas to simplify this momentous time.

Common Challenges Planning Graduation Parties

• Dietary restrictions of guests.
• Not enough areas to accommodate sitting while eating.
• Many different food preferences among guests.

Top Tips for Graduation Party Food Ideas

Plan for a mix of both sweet and savory.
Make sure to include both healthy and indulgent food options.
Including several finger food options can make for easier eating while standing and mingling.
Having a few vegan or gluten free options that are labeled is always a good idea for those with special dietary needs. Additionally, there may be more these two dietary needs among your guests. This article helps to identify the most common dietary restrictions.
Don’t forget to have a few different drink options.

Pulled Chicken Burger sitting on a wavy grey plate.

BBQ Chicken Sandwich

This BBQ Chicken Sandwich is an easy recipe made in the slow cooker. Such an uncomplicated recipe that will make you feel like a chef on graduation day. (Click Image For Recipe)

Best Lemonade

How to make the Best Lemonade that tastes like seductive limoncello but without the alcohol. With a kiss of fresh mint, this lemonade recipe is not overly tart and is immensely refreshing. Pure bliss for lemon lovers on a hot summer’s day. (Click Image For Recipe)

Chicken Berry Salad

This Chicken Berry Salad is sweet, savory and refreshing. Made with All-Purpose Chicken Breasts, three different kind of berries, avocado and a homemade White Balsamic Vinaigrette. Topped with crunchy toasted almond slivers, this is a divine summer chicken salad. Included also are time saving tips for the easiest of weeknight dinners. (Click Image For Recipe)

Strawberry Crumble

Strawberry Crumble is a divine dessert with a buttery and crumbly oat pecan topping that uses either fresh or frozen berries. This summertime classic is wonderful for parties, BBQ’s or just as a treat because of its easy and quick assembly and heavenly flavor. (Click Image For Recipe)

Classic Deviled Eggs

Classic Deviled Eggs are a timeless appetizer, cherished for their simple and irresistible flavor. This recipe includes easy-to-follow steps, eliminating the challenges that most people hate about making Deviled Eggs. Ideal for holidays, picnics, or parties, this appetizer never fails to bring joyful munching. (Click Image For Recipe)

Cajun Pasta

Quick and easy Cajun Pasta has andouille sausage and bell peppers. It is a creamy and luxurious dinner with a kick of spice that can be easily adjusted for taste preferences. This meal is wonderful for chilly fall and winter evenings. (Click Image For Recipe)

Chewy Brownies

These indulgent Chewy Brownies are a chocolate dream come true. They are fudgy, with a perfect balance of chewiness and richness in every bite, ready in a snap and oh-so-satisfying. It’s basically baking up a pan of happiness. (Click Image For Recipe)

Lemon Ice Cream

Refreshing, creamy and luxurious, this Lemon Ice Cream is a dream come true for lemon lovers. Made with Limoncello and a custard base that is infused with the bright flavors of lemon zest. This frozen lemon dessert has the perfect balance of sweetness to tanginess all while being extravagantly creamy. (Click Image For Recipe)

Mediterranean Chicken Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Salad Sandwich is a healthy and satisfying, lighter lunch or dinner. Made with tender shredded chicken, chickpeas, refreshing cucumbers and tangy feta. Add in the simple olive oil red wine vinaigrette and you have symphony of Mediterranean flavors. (Click Image For Recipe)

Lemon Sheet Cake

Welcome to a citrus lover’s dream! This easy, from-scratch Lemon Sheet Cake recipe is a fluffy and bright dessert that simply sings of citrusy heaven. Topped with a velvety smooth lemon cream cheese frosting that is part whipped cream and part cream cheese. This family favorite dessert has the perfect balance of sweet to tang and is wonderful for holidays, summer BBQ’s or just because. (Click Image For Recipe)

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Red wine braised short ribs have melt-in-your-mouth tender beef with a rich red wine sauce. This hearty, savory, and indulgent dish is perfect companion for mashed potatoes, creamy polenta or butter noodles. (Click Image For Recipe)

Best Ever Dry Rub Chicken Wings

A delicious finger food for your graduation party, these Best Ever Dry Rub Chicken Wings are incredibly flavorful and absolutely addictive. (Click Image For Recipe)

Antipasta Skewers

These easy Antipasta Skewers are a delicious cold and make-ahead appetizer that are always a crowd pleaser. Perfect for graduation parties. Included are secrets for the tastiest and most affordable way to make an appetizer on a stick. (Click Image For Recipe)

Oven Roasted Tri-Tip

Oven Roasted Tri-Tip recipe is very easy to make and creates juicy, flavorful and tender slices of beef that are great for sandwiches, tacos, salads, rice bowls, etc. Included are multiple dry rub recipes to cater to a variety of taste preferences or options for customized dinners. (Click Image For Recipe)

Old Fashioned Carrot Cake

This Old Fashioned Carrot Cake, made with pineapple, boasts a moist and tender crumb bursting with flavor. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, it’s a timeless favorite that’s sure to delight with every flavorful bite. (Click Image For Recipe)

Mango Cucumber Salsa

Mango Cucumber Salsa offers a delightful mix of sweetness, crunch, and tang, making it a refreshing and versatile condiment. Whether paired with tacos, fish, chicken, or enjoyed with chips, its vibrant flavors shine through. With the option to use fresh or frozen mango, this recipe ensures a taste of the tropics anytime of the year. (Click Image For Recipe)

Bacon Belly Button Pasta Salad

A family Favorite for parties, this Bacon Belly Button Pasta Salad (aka. Tortellini Salad) is a zesty and an incredibly delicious pasta dish. Light and yet very satisfying, this always disappears extremely fast! (Click Image For Recipe)

Overhead photo of a bowl of Italian Tortellini Salad.

Best Peanut Butter Cookies

Best Peanut Butter Cookies recipe creates soft and chewy cookies that are a peanut butter lovers dream come true. These melt in your mouth cookies are made from natural peanut butter, whole peanuts and peanut butter chips. (Click Image For Recipe)

4 Peanut Butter Cookies Stacked together on a wire cooling rack.

Very up close photo of White Bean Red Pepper Dip made shiny with a drizzle of olive oil.

Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Incredibly fast and easy to make, this Roasted Red Pepper Dip has the sweet charred flavor of roasted bell peppers, the nutty flavor of Parmigiano Reggiano and the peppery profile of fresh basil. Also, this healthy recipe can used as a dip or spread. (Click Image For Recipe)

Best Dry Rubbed Ribs of Your LIfe

This oven baked Dry Rubbed Ribs recipe creates meat so tender it falls off the bone. These ribs are juicy, packed with flavor and do not require a grill. You will fall in love with these ribs from the first bite. (Click Image For Recipe)

Cold Pasta Salad for summertime in a blue and white bowl.

Summer Pasta Salad

Irresistible Summer Pasta Salad has pan roasted corn, crisp sugar snap peas, savory feta and fresh herbs in a bright homemade lemon vinaigrette. A delicious and healthy side dish that is very easy to make and is always a hit. (Click Image For Recipe)

Creamy Mac and Cheese

Out of this world Creamy Mac and Cheese is easily made on the stovetop but can be baked with a crispy Panko topping. This recipe is always a family favorite for parties. (Click Image For Recipe)

Roasted Garlic Dip

Roasted Garlic Dip is creamy and savory with bright flavors. Roasting the garlic creates a mild sweet and yet savory companion to the caramelized shallots. Lemon, chives and parsley brings in a brightness that makes this dip amazing as an appetizer and compliments veggies. (Click Image For Recipe)

Overhead photo of Garlic Dip surrounded by wavy potato chips.

Baked Pita Chips

Secrets to making the best Baked Pita Chips that are crispy and full of flavor. Perfectly seasoned, these chips work great as a finger food for dips. (Click Image For Recipe)

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies sitting next to a glass of milk.

Oatmeal Raisin Coconut Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Coconut Cookies recipe creates a chewy, crispy and flavorful treat that everyone loves. Made with pecans, coconut, old-fashioned rolled oats and cinnamon. Such an easy cookie that is so very satisfying. (Click Image For Recipe)

Macaroni Salad

Creamy, crunchy and flavorful cold Macaroni Salad is an easy and foolproof side dish perfect for get togethers. Included are tips and secrets to making an irresistible classic creamy pasta salad that is sure to become a family favorite recipe. (Click Image For Recipe)

Up close photo of a plate of Spring Mix Salad with strawberries and walnuts.

Strawberry Walnut Salad

Strawberry Walnut Salad is an irresistible side that comes together quickly and is a perfect addition to all kinds of get togethers. Sweet strawberries, toasted walnuts, tangy feta and spring mix salad are tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette. (Click Image For Recipe)

Simple Healthy Guacamole

Simple Healthy Guacamole is an incredibly fresh and flavorful Mexican dip. Authentically made with chunky avocados and tomatoes. Perfectly spiced with cilantro, jalapeño and garlic. This recipe will spoil you for all other guacamoles. (Click Image For Recipe)

Pico de Gallo

This Pico de Gallo recipe is a fast, fresh and absolutely delicious salsa. Works great as a companion to chips or as a condiment with tacos, burritos or any Mexican cuisine. (Click Image For Recipe)

Up close photo of Chunky Salsa with white onion and cilantro.

Limoncello Spritz

The perfect cocktail for lemon lovers, this quick and easy Limoncello Spritz is made of 3 simple ingredients. Because it is bubbly, refreshing and sweet, it’s perfect for graduation parties. Also, a delicious way to enjoy the classic Italian liqueur, Limoncello. (Click Image For Recipe)

Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Sweet and buttery, Lemon Shortbread Cookies are simple cookies perfect for graduation parties or just as a treat for lemon lovers. Included are common challenges and solutions when making this American shortbread cookie. (Click Image For Recipe)

No-mayo Potato Salad in a blue bowl sitting on a wooden table.

Italian Potato Salad

Italian Potato Salad is easy to make, healthy and full of the bright and delicious flavors of Italy. This is a perfect make-ahead side dish for graduation parties. Additionally, without the garnish of parmesan cheese, this is a gorgeous vegan salad that everyone will love. (Click Image For Recipe)

A served piece of Apple Spice Cake Recipe on a white plate with a fork.

Apple Sauce Spice Cake

Fluffy and moist, this Apple Sauce Spice Cake is an old fashioned cake recipe that is extremely easy to make. Topped with a cinnamon cream cheese icing, this from-scratch recipe is packed with spices that makes a perfect party dessert. (Click Image For Recipe)

Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad is an absolute crowd pleaser with a balsamic vinaigrette, creamy mozzarella, Kalamata olives and artichoke hearts. Beware, stopping at one bowl is almost impossible. (Click Image For Recipe)

Dry Rubbed Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Easy and out of this world delicious, this Dry Rubbed Grilled Chicken Sandwich recipe creates one of the best sandwiches. This sandwich is a fun addition to your graduation day party. (Click Image For Recipe)

Honey Vodka Lemonade

Vodka Honey Lemonade is a refreshing homemade adult beverage kissed with honey and speckled with fresh mint. (Click Image For Recipe)

Shredded Chicken Nachos

Shredded Chicken Nachos is an easy family favorite recipe. Loaded with mouthwatering toppings like Homemade Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, Jack Cheese and sour cream. This dinner is crunchy, tasty and completely satisfying. (Click Image For Recipe)

Simple White Bean Dip

Simple White Bean Dip is a quick and healthy recipe perfect as an appetizer for a party or a fast afternoon snack. This recipe is so delicious you may find yourself craving this as a feel good lunch also. (Click Image For Recipe)

A bowl full of Dill Pasta Salad with cucumber coins and pickles.

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Bright and crisp, this Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is mouthwateringly addictive. With absolutely no dairy, loads of chives and dill pickles makes it perfect for your summer cookout. (Click Image For Recipe)

Burrata Caprese

Perfect for summer, Burrata Caprese is a simple and delicious salad or Italian appetizer of heirloom tomatoes, basil, mozzarella Burrata and a balsamic glaze. (Click Image For Recipe)

Caprese Salad with heirloom tomatoes, burrata and basil.

How to Make the Best Charcuterie Board

Simple ideas on How to Make the Best Charcuterie Board. Mix and match with your favorite meats, cheeses, nuts and fruits using various boards. This Charcuterie Board is perfect for parties and is an absolute crowd pleaser! (Click Image For Recipe)

Charcuterie Board with cherries on the vine and Italian meats.

Lemon Bars

These highly seductive Lusciously Lemon Bars are the perfect mouth watering treat for the lemon lovers in your life. They are buttery, rich, refreshing and simple to make. (Click Image For Recipe)

Grilled Veggie Sandwich

Grilled Veggie Sandwich is a guilt free, vegetarian way to enjoy the traditional sub. Grilling makes for deliciously smoky vegetables layered with zesty hummus and creamy goat cheese. A sandwich both vegetarians and non-vegetarians love. (Click Image For Recipe)

Zesty Chicken Pasta Salad

Zesty Chicken Pasta Salad has a subtle balance of tang to spice with red chili pepper flakes, feta, onion and garlic. Simple, fresh and easy to make, this pasta salad is perfect anytime of year. (Click Image For Recipe)

Piece of Crustless Spinach Quiche garnished with chives and sour cream.

Crustless Spinach and Feta Quiche

Great for potlucks or lazy mornings, this Crustless Spinach and Feta Quiche is an easy, creamy and bright tasting breakfast or brunch recipe. Tastes amazing hot or cold making it perfect for anytime of the year. (Click Image For Recipe)

Mom’s Old Fashioned Corn Bread

Mom’s Old Fashioned Corn Bread is a slightly sweet, moist and flavorful bread. No need for box mixes with this easy from-scratch recipe. (Click Image For Recipe)

Cornbread Recipe baked in a cast iron skillet.

Hearty Homemade Chili

Comforting and satisfying, this Hearty Homemade Chili recipe is bound to become a family favorite. It is savory enough for the adults, mild enough for the kiddos and will keep you warm on this chilly nights. (Click Image For Recipe)

Sgroppino

Made with Lemon Sorbet (or gelato), Prosecco and chilled vodka, Sgroppino is a heavenly after dinner cocktail that is extremely easy to make. This drink is perfect for celebrations, served after a heavier meal, as a dessert for lemon lovers or enjoyed at the end of a hot day. (Click Image For Recipe)

A glass of Passionfruit Drink with an orange curl and mint leaves.

Passionfruit Orange Mocktail

The perfect summer drink, Passionfruit Orange Mocktail is a fruity and refreshing drink. Family friendly and great to welcome summer guests. (Click Image For Recipe)

Springtime Pasta Salad

Springtime Pasta Salad is an easy, light, refreshing and yet such a satisfying recipe with a simple lemon vinaigrette, olives and fresh veggies. It is the perfect make a ahead dish for company, potlucks or cold lunches during the week. (Click Image For Recipe)

Overhead photo of Italian Pound Cake garnished with lemon slices.

Italian Lemon Pound Cake

Bright and fresh, this Italian Lemon Pound Cake recipe is a soft and fluffy Italian classic. Made with oil rather than butter, fresh lemons and eggs. This dessert tastes amazing and is very easy to make. (Click Image For Recipe)

Super Healthy Broccoli Salad

Super Healthy Broccoli Salad is a twist on a classic with extra nutrition packed in. It is crunchy, sweet and savory, a salad everyone gobbles up. (Click Image For Recipe)

Lemon Artichoke Dip

Cheesy, savory and full of the bright citrusy flavor of lemon, this Lemon Artichoke Dip is by far one of my favorite appetizers. This recipe is versatile enough to work either as a holiday appetizer or for a summer get together. (Click Image For Recipe)

Scoping Lemon Feta Artichoke Dip with a cracker.

Skinny Red Potato Salad

My most requested side dish for BBQ’s, Skinny Red Potato Salad is an easy and healthy summer classic. With simple ingredients, great texture and the fresh flavor of dill, this potato salad is always a hit. (Click Image For Recipe)

Red Potato Salad garnished with Green onions and fresh dill.

Lemon Cookies with White Chocolate Chips cooling on a wire rack.

Lemon White Chocolate Cookies

Soft and chewy Lemon White Chocolate Cookies has three layers of lemon making them perfect for lemon lovers. An easy, bright and comforting cookie perfect for many events. (Click Image For Recipe)

Lightened Up Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas recipe is lower in calories than your traditional enchilada but bursting with the same wonderful flavors. This is a family favorite that puts a smile on everyone's face.

Lightened Up Salsa Verde Enchiladas

Lightened Up Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas recipe is an absolute family favorite but lower in calories than your traditional Mexican enchilada. It has the creaminess and decadence of queso fresco cheese along with the refreshing flavors of tomatillos and cilantro. Also, a great make-ahead meal for parties. (Click Image For Recipe)

Simple Coleslaw

Simple Coleslaw is an easy and delicious side dish that comes together in minutes. Low-carb and gluten free, it’s the perfect companion to many a dish. (Click Image For Recipe)

Candied Walnuts

Quick, easy and so delicious, this Candied Walnuts recipe is honey glazed and perfect in salads, eaten with cheese or as a simple snack. One of our favorite healthy treats! (Click Image For Recipe)

Several Honey Walnuts on a cookie sheet.

Hibiscus Pink Lemonade

Learn how to make gorgeous and refreshing Hibiscus Pink Lemonade with these easy steps. This recipe creates one of the most delicious, nonalcoholic drinks! It is perfect for parties or just to stay cool all summer long. (Click Image For Recipe)

Green Apple Butterscotch Macadamia Nut Cookies

These Green Apple Butterscotch Macadamia Nut Cookies are going to become your family’s new favorite. I apologize in advance for having to buy the next pant size up. (Click Image For Recipe)