It is almost impossible not to know someone who is on a vegan, gluten-free, or paleo diet these days. However, throwing a vegan dinner party is the best way to accommodate (almost) everyone, no matter what special food restriction they might have, since most plant-based vegan dishes are also paleo and gluten-free as well.
And guests who are on a clear-liquids-only diet? Just have some lemon water and champagne on the side. They weren’t planning on eating anything anyway.
Start out with infused booze.
Photo by Daisy Dolan
Juice a couple of apples and carrots, spike the juice with vodka, and serve your guests, vegan or not, your delicious and refreshing concoction. Find out whether the alcohol you are serving is vegan or not with Barnivore, a handy guide for vegans who like booze.
Begin the night with easy cornbread and healthy sweet potato fries.
Photo by Maddie Stanley
The cornbread will please both your vegan and gluten-free guests, and the guilt-free sweet potato fries will keep even the hungriest carnivores happy until the main course.
Vegan cheesy pasta? Is that even possible?!
Photo by Keni Lin
Yeah, vegan (cashew) cheese is a real thing. Not only is it super easy to make, but it is also a lot healthier than real cheese. Keep your paleo and gluten-free guests happy by using spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. Also serve some creamy coconut black bean stew, to keep your protein-lovers happy, and maple glazed stuffed squash, which just sounds mouth-watering.
Save the best for last.
Photo by Daniela Childers
You know what I’m talking about: Dessert. Some freshly baked vegan chocolate crinkle cookies will never fail to impress your guests. And these flourless vegan chocolate-dipped cookie dough bites made with chickpeas and oats will satisfy any sweet tooth without expanding waistlines.