When it comes to Diwali, food isn’t just a part of the celebration — it’s the heart of it. This festival of lights just wouldn’t be complete without a spread of flavours that bring everyone together, from savoury bites to indulgent desserts. If you’re setting up for a Diwali night to remember, your menu is key, but let’s be real — the endless choices can make planning a bit overwhelming. Don’t sweat it! We’ve pulled together 15 tried-and-true recipes that’ll make your Diwali spread the highlight of the weekend. Each dish is designed to bring that perfect mix of festive flavour and comfort to your table, setting the vibe for a celebration your guests won’t forget.
1. Mixed Vegetable Pakoda
A party is incomplete without starters. What’s better than pakodas for a good snack? Add the goodness of vegetables like cauliflower, eggplant, onions and potatoes to this recipe. Serve it hot. Click here for the recipe.
Mixed Veg Pakora is easy to make
2. Dahi Papdi Pops
Whip up this easy and quick dahi papdi pops for a fabulous party appetiser. All you’ll need is papdi, curd, pomegranate, cashews and ketchup. Click here for the recipe.
3. Tandoori Chaat
Bring the Indian taste to the table with this delectable tandoori chaat recipe. The spicy and sour flavours mix well to add a spark to your party. Click here for the recipe.
Also read: Diwali: Celebrate The Festival Of Lights With This Special Thali
4. Salsa And Caramel Bread Popcorn
Want to experiment with some ingredients? Try serving salsa, a Mexican dip, with crunchy bread popcorn. Click here for the recipe.
5. Rajma Kebab
It’s time to dive into some filling dishes. Want to try some delicious kebabs this Diwali? Cook rajma kebabs to tingle your taste buds. Click here for the recipe.
Rajma Kebabs are healthy and delicious
6. Achari Paneer Tikka
Paneer is a must-have ingredient during Diwali feasts. Make it a tangy dish by adding pickles to the recipe. Click here for the recipe.
7. Gobi Manchurian
Manchurian lovers will embrace this dish made of cauliflower. Take two eggs, flour, onions, capsicums and spices to make the Manchurian balls and dip them in a spicy gravy. Click here for the recipe.
8. Pashtooni Zarda Pulao
Pulao is the centrepiece of any menu during an Indian festival. This easy recipe requires rice, spices, khoya, saffron, dry fruits and rosewater for a subtle flavour. Click here for the recipe.
9. Satrangi Biryani
If you are not a pulao lover, try this biryani recipe that can melt hearts. Use vegetables like red carrots, French beans, bell peppers, broccoli and beetroot for this recipe. Click here for the recipe.
Use colorful vegetables for Satrangi Biryani
10. Amritsari Kulcha
Kulcha is a popular Indian bread that is relished a lot during parties. Make a yummy filling with onions, coriander sprigs, potatoes, pomegranate seeds, lemon juice and spices. Click here for the recipe.
11. Spiced Rum Recipe
Spiced rum is all about mixing rich, aged rum with a kick of exotic spices like cinnamon and vanilla for a flavour explosion. Perfect for sipping neat or shaking up cocktails, it’s a delicious way to elevate your drink game! Want to make your own? Check out the recipe here.
12. Cucumber Mint Cooler
Get the party started with this Cucumber Mint Cooler! This mocktail is all about refreshing vibes, bursting with zesty lemon and cool mint flavours that’ll have your guests feeling rejuvenated. Perfect for any celebration, it’s delicious, easy to whip up, and might just become the go-to drink for all your get-togethers. Cheers to good times and even better sips! Click here for the recipe.
13. Phirni
Don’t disappoint the guests who have a sweet tooth. Phirni is the perfect Indian dessert for a Diwali party. Click here for the recipe.
Photo: iStock
14. Shahi Tukda
Turn fried pieces of bread into an unforgettable dessert by slathering them with thick layers of milk and nuts. Click here for the recipe.
15. Rasmalai
Rasmalai, with its milk base and sugary chenna cakes, is an evergreen recipe to add sweetness to festive parties. Cake it at home and serve it chilled. Click here for the recipe.
Photo: iStock