So you've decided to host a dinner-party. How exciting! Whether the setting is a cozy escape from the cold or an airy summer soirée, it's always a good idea to feast, sip, and have a good old catch up with your nearest and dearest. With a date, a menu, and an exclusive guest list already picked out- what could go wrong?
Your phone buzzes and a message from your friend appears. They're texting to let you know that their new partner is gluten-free.
Questions begin to race through your mind. Is it an allergy or a diet? Do you have to change the theme? What even is gluten, anyways? Don't panic. Cooking for a gluten-free guest doesn't have to be so stressful. Your theme can remain, along with your main menu and fancy aperitifs. A few simple adjustments are all that's required. Here's what to cook for a gluten-free guest.
To begin, you may already be aware that regular breads and pastas are a no-go. On the other hand, you may have heard the horror stories of the dry, crumbly alternatives in the gluten-free aisle (not to mention the extortionate price of a loaf of bread). It doesn't stop there. Commonly-used, gluten-filled ingredients like soy sauce, malt vinegar and gravy will need to be avoided too. Plus, if your guest is a coeliac or has a severe intolerance, you need to consider cross contamination in the kitchen.
Our advice? Make the meal gluten-free, naturally. The others won't notice, we promise.
Naturally Gluten-Free Starters
Sensational Salads
This Roasted Beet Salad is not only quick and easy to make, but is always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser- the sweet, supple beetroot against a crunch of pistachios is simply divine. Another perfect coeliac-approved starter- a Caprese Salad is a medley of vibrant tastes, textures, and deliciously fresh ingredients. You guessed it, both are naturally gluten free starters, no adaptions necessary.
Dreamy, Creamy Dips
Made with feta, garlic, cucumber and olives, this creamy Greek Dip is gloriously gluten-free. Simply ditch the pitta and serve it with corn tortilla chips to be enjoyed by everyone. For an caramelised onion base, try this Pan-Fried Onion Dip and serve it with a platter of veggies.
Pakoras, Perfected
These Paneer Pakoras are coated in a batter of chickpea flour and spices and dipped in a sizzling oil for a crispy finish. Meanwhile, the ingredients in these Spinach and Onion Pakoras are combined together and fried until golden. Whichever you choose, serve them with chutney and let your gluten-free guests dig in without a care in the world.
Not Your Usual Soups
For a spicy start to the evening, serve up this gluten-free Mexican Chicken Soup. With chicken, chopped veg, and a kick of jalapeño, this fiery dish will kick the evening off with a bang. For warmer evenings, cool your guests down with this refreshing Cucumber Soup made with buttermilk and fresh dill.
Starters from the Sea
Anything served on a stick is always a great opener to an evening, and this succulent medley of Seafood Skewers with a naturally gluten-free sauce is no exception. Other delicious options from the sea include these succulent Prawn Scampi and simple yet effective Smoked Salmon-Wrapped Asparagus.
As you can see, gluten-free starters are the easy part. From cheesy dips to roasted veggies, the possibilities for delicious, flourless canapés are endless. Now, it's onto the mains. Luckily, many typical dinner party dishes such as casseroles, grills, and majority of Mexican cuisine can be made gluten-free naturally!
Naturally Gluten-Free Main Courses
Everyone Loves a Taco Night...
Including your gluten-free guests. Make sure to use tacos made from 100% corn. Then, it's a matter of stuffing them with the usual taco-filling favourites, whether that's Garlicky Beef Mince, Carne Asada Marinated in Mojo, or Halibut with Zesty Salsa Verde. Serve them as a spread with salsa, guacamole, and of course, a margarita or two, and you have yourself a high-spirited coeliac-friendly soirée.
Drool-Worthy Deep Dishes
Baked in one large dish, pies and casseroles are a great way to host a dinner party with minimal stress. Luckily, many of these can be naturally gluten-free too, such as this hearty Shepherd's Pie, this cheesy Vegetarian Casserole or a Crispy, Chilli Cheese alternative. For a twist, serve tacos in one big dish with this Beef and Bean Taco Casserole and let your guests tuck in.
Gluten-Free Grills
If your original dinner plans involved the grill, you're in luck. The majority of grilled dishes can be made gluten-free, just keep an eye out for any wheat or barley-containing marinades. Whether you're opting for Mediterranean-style Grilled Fish, Salmon with an Avocado Dressing, Lamb Chops with Tapenade Aioli, or everyone's favourite Jerk Chicken with a Mango Salsa- all are naturally gluten-free. For a veggie option, why not try the lovely Grilled Polenta? No diet can phase this host!
Finally, we have dessert. That's right- the course that usually involves cakes, pastries, puddings and pies. Tempted to serve your gluten-free guest a bowl of ice-cream and consider the job done? Why not take a look at these wonderful options for everyone to enjoy instead!
Naturally Gluten-Free Desserts
Zesty Cheesecakes
Cheesecake is a blissfully easy dessert to make suitable for a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free biscuit crumbs instead of regular for a crunchy, buttery base. Alternatively, why not try these Lemon Cheesecake Squares? Made with crushed cashew and almond flour, these are a zesty, tasty way to finish the meal.
Flourless Pies & Tarts
For this Pear and Cranberry Pie, replace wheat flour with rice flour and tapioca starch for the golden crust surrounding the sweet and luscious cranberry and pear filling. The same applies for the classic, Elegant French Apple Tart, with rice flour, tapioca starch, and ground almonds as the base of the delicious pastry.
Mind-Blowing Meringues
Traditionally made from whipped egg whites and sugar, meringues are a perfect dessert to serve to your gluten-free guest. However, these Vegan Meringues are made with a can of chickpeas, again, why not make them all the more inclusive! For a minty kick, try these Peppermint Meringues or better yet, crush your meringues into an Eton Mess, a beloved British dessert that's naturally free of any gluten ingredients.
And there you have it! No gluten? No problem. To discover more gluten-free delights, scroll down and try some out for yourself.
