Mixed nuts are fine—if there’s a second course. But when an event doesn’t have the funds for fancy passed hors d’oeuvres or dinner, a selection of unexpected bar snacks can keep guests sated without breaking the budget. Here are 12 options to take the place of canapés. NoImage

From left: crispy artichoke chips in the Samuri bowl from Classic Party Rentals in New York; salted, dried lychees in the teardrop bowl from Classic Party Rentals in San Francisco; and split pea mix with bacon in the Origami bowl from Hall's Rental in Chicago. All snacks are from Mary Giuliani Catering and Events in New York.
Photo: Miha Matei for BizBash

Hard-boiled quail eggs with ground pepper, chili, and lime salt mixes from Mary Giuliani Catering and Events
Photo: Miha Matei for BizBash

Heirloom potato chips with pink peppercorns, fresh thyme and asiago cheese from Très L.A.
Photo: Matt Armendariz for BizBash

Root vegetable chips with chipotle, beet, and green herb dips from Marigolds & Onions in Toronto
Photo: Virginia MacDonald for BizBash

Vegetarian rice paper wraps with chili sambal sauce from Marigolds & Onions
Photo: Virginia MacDonald for BizBash

Olive, cheese, pepperoni, and vegetable skewers from Entertaining Company in Chicago
Photo: Michael Maes for BizBash

Bhangra Bites: grilled paneer and masala tomato brunoise; uttapam pizzas; and lemon pepper and cayenne naan chips from Entertaining Company
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Purple potatoes filled with spicy carnitas from R&R Catering in Washington
Photo: Powers & Crewe for BizBash