39 Pink Foods to Impress at a Potluck
I love hosting potluck parties because it’s an opportunity to try new dishes and share my favorite recipes with friends. And what better way to add a pop of color to the table than with pink foods?
Whether it is for a color party, gender reveal/baby shower, a birthday party, or an anniversary celebration, pink can be the star at your next potluck. From sweet to savory, there are plenty of options to choose from that are not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Pink Foods to Bring to a Potluck Party
The following foods are easy to buy or make at home. They are easy to travel with and are usually big hits with a crowd! Not everyone wants to make or prepare foods for a party and that is totally fine. If that is you, check out our Ultimate List of Pink Snacks at the Grocery Store!
Fruits and Berries
When it comes to pink foods, fruits and berries are the perfect addition to any potluck. Not only are they naturally sweet and delicious, but they also add a pop of color to any dish. Here are a few of my favorite pink fruits and berries to bring to a potluck:
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are a classic pink fruit that are always a hit at potlucks. They are sweet, juicy, and perfect for snacking on. To bring strawberries to a potluck, I like to wash them and cut off the stems ahead of time. Then, I put them in a plastic container with a lid to keep them fresh and travel easily.
2. Pineberries
These super light pink berries look similar to strawberries but taste similar to a strawberry and a pineapple mixed together. These cute pink berries can be mixed with yogurt, sliced in a salad, or part of an all-pink fruit tray! Pineberries are typically found in late spring and early summer.
3. Watermelon
Watermelon is another great pink fruit to bring to a potluck. It’s refreshing, hydrating, and perfect for hot summer days. To bring watermelon to a potluck, I like to cut it into bite-sized pieces and put them in a large bowl with a lid. This makes it easy for people to grab a piece and keeps the watermelon fresh.
4. Pink Grapefruit
Pink grapefruit is a tangy and refreshing fruit that is perfect for adding to salads or eating on its own. To bring pink grapefruit to a potluck, I like to cut it into sections and put them in a plastic container with a lid. This keeps the grapefruit fresh and makes it less likely to spill juices.
5. Raspberries
Raspberries are a delicate and delicious pink berry that are perfect for adding to desserts or eating on their own. To bring raspberries to a potluck, I like to wash them and put them in a small plastic container with a lid. This keeps them fresh and makes them easy to transport.
6. Pink Lady Apples
Pink Lady apples are a crisp and sweet pink fruit that are perfect for snacking on or adding to salads. To bring Pink Lady apples to a potluck, I like to wash them and cut them into slices ahead of time. Then, I put them in a plastic container with a lid and a sprinkle of lemon or lime juice to keep them from turning brown.
Vegetables
I love bringing vegetables to potlucks because they are healthy, colorful, and always a hit with the crowd. Here are some of my favorite pink vegetables to bring to a potluck:
7. Watermelon Feta Salad
This salad is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to use up summer’s bounty of watermelon. I cube the watermelon and mix it with crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. To bring this dish to a potluck party, I like to assemble it on a large platter and sprinkle some extra mint leaves on top for garnish.
8. Pink Beet Pancakes
These pancakes are not only pretty but also healthy. Made with oats, eggs, yogurt, applesauce, maple syrup, and beets, each bite feels wholesome and tastes terrific. To bring this dish to a potluck party, I like to make them ahead of time and keep them warm in a covered dish. I also bring a small container of maple syrup for guests to drizzle on top.
9. Pink Hummus
This hummus is not only delicious but also eye-catching. To make it, I blend together chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and roasted beets until smooth. I like to serve it with pita chips or fresh veggies for dipping. To bring this dish to a potluck party, I like to transfer it to a serving bowl and sprinkle some extra paprika on top for color.
10. Radicchio
Radicchio is a beautiful pink and purple leafy vegetable that adds a lot of color and flavor to any dish. I like to chop it up and mix it with other salad greens, like arugula or spinach, to make a colorful and tasty salad. To bring radicchio to a potluck, I usually pack it in a large bowl or container with a lid, and bring the dressing on the side.
11. Beets
Beets are another great pink vegetable that are perfect for potlucks. I like to roast them in the oven with some olive oil and sea salt, and then serve them with a sprinkle of goat cheese and chopped walnuts. To bring beets to a potluck, I usually pack them in a large container with a lid, and bring the toppings on the side.
12. Pink Cauliflower
Pink cauliflower is a fun and unique vegetable that is sure to impress your potluck guests. I like to roast it in the oven with some garlic and lemon juice, and then serve it with a sprinkle of parsley. To bring pink cauliflower to a potluck, I usually pack it in a large bowl or container with a lid, and bring the seasoning on the side. These can be found at organic grocery stores like Whole Foods or online specialty stores.
13. Pink Tomatoes
Pink tomatoes are a classic vegetable that are always a hit at potlucks. I like to slice them up and serve them with some fresh basil and balsamic vinegar. To bring pink tomatoes to a potluck, I usually pack them in a large container with a lid and bring the toppings on the side. I love to serve these chopped herb tomatoes on slices of bread for easy eating! Most grocery stores are selling lots of different varieties of tomatoes now, so finding a pinkish one won’t be difficult. (Even a red one will work since it is what makes the color pink!)
Spices and Seasonings
When it comes to pink foods, spices and seasonings can add that extra pop of flavor and color to your dish. Here are a few of my favorite pink spices and seasonings that are perfect for a potluck:
14. Paprika
Paprika is a spice made from dried and ground peppers. It has a sweet and mildly spicy flavor and can add a beautiful pink color to dishes. Use it to season deviled eggs or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables. To bring paprika to a potluck, I like to put it in a small spice jar or container with a shaker top for easy sprinkling.
15. Beet Powder
Beet powder is made from dehydrated beets and can be used as a natural food coloring and flavoring. It has a slightly sweet and earthy taste and can be added to smoothies, baked goods, or even pasta dough for a pop of pink. To bring beet powder to a potluck, I suggest putting it in a small resealable bag or container.
16. Rose Water
Rose water is a flavored water made by steeping rose petals in water. It has a delicate floral flavor and aroma and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Add it to frosting or whipped cream for a pink and aromatic topping or use it to flavor rice or couscous. To bring rose water to a potluck, I recommend putting it in a small glass bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid.
17. Hibiscus Powder
Hibiscus powder is made from dried and ground hibiscus flowers and has a tart and fruity flavor. It can be used in teas, smoothies, or as a natural food coloring. Add it to yogurt or cream cheese for a pink and tangy dip or use it to flavor cocktails. To bring hibiscus powder to a potluck, I suggest putting it in a small resealable bag or container.
18. Sumac
Sumac is a spice made from dried and ground berries and has a tangy and slightly sour flavor. It can add a beautiful pink color and zing to dishes like hummus, salads, or roasted meats. To bring sumac to a potluck, I like to put it in a small spice jar or container with a shaker top for easy sprinkling.
Seafood and Meat
When it comes to potluck parties, seafood and meat dishes are always a hit. If you’re looking for some delicious pink food options to bring to your next potluck, here are a few ideas:
19. Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp cocktail is a classic appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser. To make it, simply cook some shrimp and serve them with a pink cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. You can arrange the shrimp around the edge of a platter and put the cocktail sauce in the center for an elegant presentation. To bring it to a potluck, just pack the shrimp and sauce separately and assemble them when you arrive.
20. Beef Tenderloin
If you’re looking for a main dish that’s sure to impress, consider making a beef tenderloin. You can cook it to your preferred level of doneness and serve it with a pink peppercorn sauce made from cream, butter, and crushed pink peppercorns. To bring it to a potluck, slice the beef and arrange it on a platter with the sauce on the side.
21. Pink Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic potluck dish, but you can give them a pink twist by adding some beet juice to the filling. Simply mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and beet juice until you get a smooth consistency, then pipe the mixture back into the egg whites. To bring them to a potluck, arrange the eggs on a platter and sprinkle some chopped chives on top for garnish.
22. Smoked Salmon Dip
Smoked salmon dip is another great appetizer option. To make it, simply mix some smoked salmon with cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and dill until you get a smooth consistency. You can serve it with crackers or sliced baguette. To bring it to a potluck, pack the dip in a container and bring the crackers or bread separately.
23. Beet Juice Roasted Chicken
Roasted chicken is a classic main dish that’s always a hit at potlucks. You can give it a pink twist by marinating it in a mixture of beet juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs before roasting it. The beet juice will give the chicken a pink hue and add some extra flavor. To bring it to a potluck, slice the chicken and arrange it on a platter with some fresh herbs for garnish.
24. Ham
This naturally pink meat is a perfect potluck staple. You can make simple appetizers like ham rollups using ham deli meat. Another option is Honey Baked ham for a main dish. Ham is a great meat because it literally can go with anything from potatoes to pineapple, to rice, and a zillion casseroles too.
Desserts
When it comes to pink desserts for potlucks, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite pink desserts that are sure to be a hit at any party:
25. Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, and it’s even better when it’s pink! To make this dessert, simply bake a batch of shortcake biscuits and top them with fresh sliced strawberries and whipped cream. For a pink twist, add a few drops of red food coloring to the whipped cream before topping the biscuits. To bring this dessert to a potluck, I recommend baking the shortcake biscuits ahead of time and storing them in an airtight container. Then, pack the sliced strawberries and whipped cream in separate containers and assemble the dessert just before serving.
26. Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
These raspberry cheesecake bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for potlucks. To make them, simply mix together cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, and pour the mixture over a graham cracker crust. Then, top the cheesecake with fresh raspberries and bake until set. To bring these bars to a potluck, I recommend cutting them into squares and packing them in an airtight container. You can also bring extra fresh raspberries to sprinkle on top just before serving.
27. Pink Velvet Cupcakes
These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, especially a potluck party. They are moist, fluffy, and have a subtle hint of chocolate flavor. To make them pink, I add a few drops of red food coloring to the batter. To bring these cupcakes to a potluck party, I like to frost them with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle some pink sanding sugar on top for extra sparkle.
28. Watermelon Sorbet
Watermelon sorbet is a refreshing and light dessert that’s perfect for warm weather potlucks. To make it, simply blend fresh watermelon chunks with sugar and lemon juice until smooth, then freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker until it reaches a sorbet-like consistency. To bring this dessert to a potluck, I recommend packing the sorbet in a freezer-safe container and bringing an ice cream scoop to serve it with. You can also bring extra fresh watermelon slices to garnish each serving.
29. Cherry Pie
Cherry pie is a classic dessert that consists of a sweet cherry filling baked inside a pastry crust. The filling is typically made with fresh or canned cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and sometimes other ingredients like lemon juice or almond extract. The crust can be either a traditional pie crust or a crumbly streusel topping. Once baked, the cherry pie is typically served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a popular dessert during the summer months when cherries are in season..
30. Raspberry Mousse
Raspberry mousse is a light and fluffy dessert that is made with fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and gelatin. The raspberries are pureed and mixed with sugar, lemon juice, and gelatin to create a smooth and creamy base. This mixture is then folded into whipped cream to create a light and airy texture. The mousse is typically chilled in the refrigerator until it sets and is then served in individual cups or glasses. Raspberry mousse is a popular dessert during the summer months when fresh raspberries are in season.
31. Cotton Candy
If you are attending a potluck with kids or adults that are children at heart, cotton candy can be a huge crowd pleaser. Cotton candy can be made ahead of time and sealed in plastic bags, or most grocery stores also sell it premade.
32. Pink Frosted Donuts
Whether it is a breakfast potluck or really any potluck, donuts are always a hit! You can buy them with pink frosting or drizzle, or you can make them at home too. There are so many decoration ideas if you want to skip the frosting. Check out the baking section and you will see sprinkles and pink sugar crystals.
33. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp is a classic dessert that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the sweetness of strawberries, topped with a crispy oat and nut topping. The dessert is typically served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp is a popular dessert during the spring and summer months when both strawberries and rhubarb are in season. If not in season, you can actually buy canned strawberry rhubarb pie filling.
Drinks
Potluck parties are always a great time to try out new and exciting drinks. Here are some pink drinks that are perfect for a potluck party.
34. Berry Smoothies
If you are having a brunch, consider bringing smoothies to the party! Typically made with milk, yogurt, ice, and fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and bananas. The resulting look with be a frothy pink beverage everyone will enjoy.
35. Pink Lemonade
Pink lemonade is a classic drink that is always a hit at potlucks. It’s easy to make and can be made in large batches. To make pink lemonade, mix lemon juice, sugar, water, and a few drops of red food coloring in a pitcher. Serve it chilled with ice and sliced lemons.
36. Strawberry Lemonade
If you want to add a fruity twist to the classic lemonade, try making strawberry lemonade. To make strawberry lemonade, blend fresh strawberries and lemon juice in a blender. Add sugar and water to the blender and blend until smooth. Serve the strawberry lemonade chilled with ice and sliced lemons.
37. Pink Champagne Punch
Pink champagne punch is a perfect drink for a celebration. To make pink champagne punch, mix pink lemonade, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice in a large punch bowl. Add a bottle of champagne and a few cups of ice. Stir well and serve.
38. Watermelon Agua Fresca
Watermelon agua fresca is a refreshing drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. To make watermelon agua fresca, blend fresh watermelon, lime juice, and sugar in a blender. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any pulp. Serve the agua fresca chilled with ice and sliced limes.
39. Rosé Sangria
Rosé sangria is a fruity and refreshing drink that is perfect for a potluck party. To make rosé sangria, mix rosé wine, triple sec, brandy, and orange juice in a large pitcher. Add sliced strawberries, peaches, and oranges to the pitcher. Stir well and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours. Serve the sangria chilled with ice and sliced fruits.
Naturally Pink Foods for a Color Party
Any food could be pink with some food coloring, but I like to avoid doing that unless it is for baked goods. This is because the average person is used to seeing bright colored cakes, cookies, and candies, but they are not used to seeing bright pink mashed potatoes.
In fact, artificially dyed foods will look very unappealing to most and that means they are not going to eat it. Why bring food to a potluck if no one will try it?
Hopefully this list of naturally pink foods from light pastel pinks to dark magenta pinks will inspire your next pink potluck dish!
For more color options for a potluck, check out our “Blue Foods List” and “Orange Side Dishes List.“
